Consistent fermentation with analog thermostat

Beerens · Feb 7, 2010

I inherited an analog thermostat from my father. I want to use it in a chest freezer for fermentation.

What are my options for getting the most consistent temperature?
Is there a way to tie it into a stopper thermowell?
Anyone build a thermowell for the analog thermostat?

Thanks!

shataway · Feb 8, 2010

Are you talking about a regular old mercury bulb thermostat?

If so, I don't think there is any option for remote temperature monitoring. One option is to mount it in the freezer about halfway up your fermenter and use it to control a 120V relay to cycle the compressor.

Test it with water in the fermenter to see if you are high or low. The mercury bulb won't give you tight control but as long as you are in the middle of your yeast temperature range, it will work.

Beerens · Feb 8, 2010

It is like the analog temperature controller that you would get from your LHBS. The one with the probe that you insert inside the fridge/freezer. Does this help? I tried to attach a pic but I could not figure it out. It has the long end and the dial on the control.

HABIT · Feb 8, 2010

The main advantage of the digital controllers are that you can set the temperature differential to 1 degree. With the analog it has a built in differential of 3-4 degrees.

Alot of people use them for their fermentation chambers. . . including me.
Is it wired already ???
Is better than a swamp cooler and a step in the right direction. :mug:

Using the Search engine and a Photobucket account is a plus for any Forum . . .

Beerens · Feb 8, 2010

I have not wired a thing. I don't even have a freezer. I got the control from my dad and don't want to invest any more money. I just want to be able to ferment my beer at the most consistent temperature. I like the idea of a thermowell, but it will not work with the analog control. I thought about taping it to the side of a carboy with insulation around it. I would love to get a digital just dont want to spent the money. Do you find that the analog does an adequate job in a fermenter?

HABIT · Feb 8, 2010

I use one for Lagering what more do you need.
Looks like you went to the summer thing and were probably close.
I've picked up 2 additional freezers for $20 each from CL and 2 free fridges.
I have a line on 2 more (1 of each) that I really dont have anywhere to put them.
You can do it on the cheap IF you keep your eye out.