Best and easiest setup temperature controller dor keezer build.

[HoshBrew]

I guys I just bought a new freezer from lowes and am building a keezer with it. I'm trying to decide on temperature control options. Opinions on best one with easiest setup? Thanks guys.

 

[pelipen]

I guys I just bought a new freezer from lowes and am building a keezer with it. I'm trying to decide on temperature control options. Opinions on best one with easiest setup? Thanks guys.

First: Digital.
Second: I can only speak to the Johnson A419, and the Control Products 2 Stage TC9201D.
I like the options on the CP controller better, but the A419 is easier to program in my opinion. Neither one has given me issues. The A419 has a better and longer included probe.
I like the CP because you can get a 2 stage for a nice price. Check around here for better wiring instructions though.
You probably don't need 2 stage unless you're keeping it outside/garage, but it's nice to have the option.
I can recommend either one as good units. I like them both.

 

[carlisle_bob]

Hi

How easy is easy?

If moving four wires (adding none) is easy then a STC-1000 off eBay is the cheap ($25 delivered) and easy solution. Mount it in the compartment with the compressor on your freezer and it's out of sight and well protected from the cats, dogs, and kids.

Bob

 

[HoshBrew]

I'm looking at the Ranco It looks pretty easy. From what I can see you cut up an extension cord and wire it to the box. I'm assuming the freezer then plugs into the box then the box plugs into the wall.

 

[pelipen]

The stc-1000 will also look better mounted if you want to see the temp. I might have to pick one up myself. Too many toys.

 

[carlisle_bob]

Hi

The question is - do you really want / need to see the temperature? For a fermentation chamber where you are fiddling it / ramping it all the time - sure. For a keezer where once it's set - it's boring to watch - hide it away.

Bob

 

[HoshBrew]

No I don't need to see it, that is just the most common used one I see. The other thing I thought is it would be nice to have the option if I wanted to use it for fermentation also.

 

[carlisle_bob]

Hi

If you are going to do fermentation, you should look at some of the more complex controllers. The simple ones really don't do all the things you need / want to do.

Bob

 

[worksnorth]

This one works wonderfully for me in my fermentation chamber. And couldn't be simpler to use!
http://www.northernbrewer.com/shop/johnson-controls-a419-digital-temp-controller.html
Cheaper on Amazon.
Cheers

 

[HoshBrew]

Worksnorth I've looked at that one. My keezer would just plug into that and then that into the wall correct?

 

[crazyworld]

I'm biased but ... https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f51/how-ranco-etc-111000-wiring-video-331745/

The direct youtube video link is in my signature. If that video doesn't make you feel comfortable wiring it up yourself, I don't know what will.

 

[worksnorth]

Worksnorth I've looked at that one. My keezer would just plug into that and then that into the wall correct?

That's exactly right, it's also got a fairly long temperature probe too. I absolutely love mine!