Yet another "Under-the-workbench" Fermentation Chamber Build

NoisufnoC · 08-27-2009, 02:54 AM

This is a continuation of my original information gathering thread http://www.homebrewtalk.com/f51/fermentation-chamber-size-133701/

For those just joining us, i'm using a Haier HSW02 (1.8 cu. ft.) Compact Refrigerator Details and Product Specifications - Epinions.com and going off of TwoHeadsBrewing's DIY thread located here http://www.homebrewtalk.com/f11/new-fermentation-chamber-build-102846/

I have decided to take the plunge and have started measuring and getting things laid out. I'm trying to decide on the size of this thing. I'd like to fit 3 carboys comfortably, which puts me at about a 48" long chamber. With some preliminary measurements, 20" W x 32" H x 48" L = ~17.7 ft^3 outside. Factor in the width of the insulation and plywood and we're probably closer to 13 to 15 ft^3.

Do you guys think i'm going to have a major temperature problem at this size? I plan on at least one 120mm fan running when the fridge cycles.

Pics are to follow.

NoisufnoC · 08-27-2009, 03:43 AM

I removed everything from under the bench and cleaned the area up a bit

Donor fridge pre-modification

Layout to show scale. That is a 48" long chamber. I plan to put the door infront of the bucket.

NoisufnoC · 08-27-2009, 03:50 AM

fixed the images.

winstonofbeer · 08-27-2009, 05:09 AM

Looks like you got the right idea and working on a good start.
Its to bad that your fridge isnt tall enough to put a carboy in. By the pic it looks to small.
Somewhere in diy forum in the last month i saw a pic of a guy who took a fridge and demolished it, Took the important parts and made a fridge built into a homemade plywood/insulated ferm chamber.....
Dont know how much work that would be.... But might be able to get more cooler space.

Just an idea....
I will look to see if i can find the pics and post the link if i do.

Keep the pics comin!!

winstonofbeer · 08-27-2009, 05:16 AM

http://www.homebrewtalk.com/f51/finally-my-fermentation-chiller-65929/

Take a look at that.

NoisufnoC · 08-27-2009, 05:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by winstonofbeer

Looks like you got the right idea and working on a good start.
Its to bad that your fridge isnt tall enough to put a carboy in. By the pic it looks to small.
Somewhere in diy forum in the last month i saw a pic of a guy who took a fridge and demolished it, Took the important parts and made a fridge built into a homemade plywood/insulated ferm chamber.....
Dont know how much work that would be.... But might be able to get more cooler space.

Just an idea....
I will look to see if i can find the pics and post the link if i do.

Keep the pics comin!!

I have a fear of ruining the mini-fridge i got for free. If i was starting from scratch i'd just get a fridge big enough for a carboy and call it a day.

MikeRLynch · 08-27-2009, 12:39 PM

This is exactly what I'm planning to do in my closet. Keep us updated, and let us know if you run into any problems.

johnnyc · 08-27-2009, 01:42 PM

I posted this in your other thread, thought I'd link it here too. http://www.homebrewtalk.com/f11/my-new-fermenter-131260/

TwoHeadsBrewing · 08-27-2009, 04:26 PM

I think that mini-fridge will work just fine, and the price is right! I doubt you'll have any problems cooling that space to 60F, but you might have issues going any lower depending on how hot the room gets in the summer. But, worst case scenario: the fridge doesn't cut it, you pick a bigger one up or an A/C unit and drop it in. Nice build thread, can't wait to see more pics of the progress!

NoisufnoC · 08-27-2009, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TwoHeadsBrewing

I think that mini-fridge will work just fine, and the price is right! I doubt you'll have any problems cooling that space to 60F, but you might have issues going any lower depending on how hot the room gets in the summer. But, worst case scenario: the fridge doesn't cut it, you pick a bigger one up or an A/C unit and drop it in. Nice build thread, can't wait to see more pics of the progress!

I totally agree, and worst case I could get a larger one like yours and replace the mini fridge. I dont expect to get to lager temps in the summer, ya know?