Hotrod / Immersion Chiller Fermentation Temp Control?!

[cod3ck]

I built a keg fermenter and am now looking to add some temp control to with the help of my DIY glycol chiller and a Hotrod (https://www.brewhardware.com/product_p/hotrodrtu1500std.htm)!

The Hotrod and IC would be connected as one unit (think whirlpool immersion chiller design), with the IC having a pump connected to cold on an Inkbird and the Hotrod to Heat.

I understand there are other opportunities of wrapping heat blankets around the fermenter to heat, but what I like about this design is an all-in-one temp controller that can be easily hosed down in the fermenter for cleaning in place. Plus, the heat directly to the beer with a ULWD element seems like it would be super efficient?!

Any reason this is a bad idea?!

Thanks for the help!

 

[mwill07]

It's not about efficiency, it's about sanitation. I don't think you want any seams anywhere things could live and spoil your wort.

I think you are looking for trouble with this.

 

[cod3ck]

That's the beauty of this design! All I would need to do is hose the IC/Hotrod down, drop it in a bucket of PBW, then another bucket of Starsan.

Then Done! -- Both chiller and heater are clean and good to go!

 

[cod3ck]

Another follow up question -- can I use the ULWD Like this or does it need to be connected to a PID?