DIY temp controller build

[rycov]

if the relay is rated for 12 v can i run it off a 5 v phone charger?

 

[notaburger]

This question is for those of you that have built one of these systems.

I am planning on using one of these to convert a freezer to a kegerator and was wondering what the sensitivity is on the unit. Will it be constantly turning my compressor on and off or does it not kick on until it breaks a certain range (like the johnson controllers)?

Thanks,
Dave

 

[android]

i think there is a build in delay on the thermostat that i used. it might turn on the freezer more than something with lots of set points, but i bet it won't be that much more.

 

[rycov]

the thermostat i bought has settings that i can change to have 1 3 or5 degree "dead zone". i would think all home thermostats would have this, or else it would be cutting your AC and heater off and on all day.

 

[motorhead69]

It's working nicely at controlling this fridge, can't wait to get it to the real one. I used an automotive relay instead of the SSR.

 

[stamandster]

Could this be used to run a Water Heating element??

 

[Hang Glider]

Technically, if the relay is built to handle that voltage/amperage, yes. The temperature-sensitive device is only turning the relay on or off.

 

[EarthBound]

I'm using this idea for my fermentation chamber. I already have modified thermostat from my old SOF chiller that I can use. Pretty much all I need to do is add a SSR.

Could this be used to run a Water Heating element??

Yes, but I haven't seen anyone do this before. Probably because the temperature reading may not be accurate enough. Have you found anyone who has done it?

 

[bmcgarrahan]

I am having my first brew day today and I built one of these yesterday in order to better control my temperature (I keep my house between 76 and 78 which is bad for fermentation). I ordered a SSR from eBay and I am temporarily using an automotive relay from Radio Shack. Other than the Hunter Thermostat seems to be about 2.5 degrees off I am quite happy and I have not set the house on fire. American Wheat (all-grain) is mashing right now at the target temp.

 

[djash40]

Just an fyi the ssr relays won't switch without a load of some sort.
So just powering up the low voltage control side and checking for continuity may leave you to believe they aren't working.

 

[silentmike]

Just wanted to post this so people know the temperature range on these Hunter thermostats. For the digital thermostats, the settable temperatures, according to their websites FAQ, is from 40F to 95F.