Temp Controller Suggestions

[Dirt_McGirt]

Just got my hands on my first cheap mini-fridge. Right now it's full of porter bombers, but I'd like to convert it to a fermentation chamber. I need to buy a temperature controller, but aren't really sure what I absolutely need in terms of features. The basement where I ferment is generally 64-68F, but patchy and variable when the furnace comes off and on.

I just missed the Inkbird 310 promotion, but do I need that, anyway? Will the basic STC-1000 do what I need?

 

[Pappers_]

I have the Johnson Controls A419 and plugged into a chest freezer it works great.

 

[user 163849]

I have built two controllers using the STC-1000 and could not be happier with them. I like the second one I built, the tall one, better for ease of use. They both function flawlessly. It only takes one to control a fridge. The picture was taken when I was comparing the two to see that they read the "same".

The short one in the picture has been in service for two years without a blip.

 

[JonM]

I also have the Johnson A419 and it is super reliable.

The only minor complaint is this: I also keep a fermwrap in my chamber, so I can add heat if needed. I usually ramp temps up at the end of fermentation to ensure complete attenuation. In order to switch from chilling to heating mode, I have to open the unit up and move a jumper. It's a minor inconvenience, but I keep thinking a dual stage temp controller would maybe be a little better, i.e., one that will switch itself from chilling to heating mode as needed.

 

[brewpool]

If you don't mind a fairly simple DIY project, the STC-1000 works great. There are some YouTube videos people put together on how they built their setups with a project box.

Just a note is that the STC-1000 reads temperature in degrees Celsius not Fahrenheit.

 

[Rhumbline]

I used an STC1000 and it has worked flawlessly for me for quite a while.

 

[JB_Brewing2]

Just a note is that the STC-1000 reads temperature in degrees Celsius not Fahrenheit.

The Inkbird ITC-1000 is virtually the same but allows you to set it for Celsius or Fahrenheit. I have two and they work flawlessly.

 

[pointcity-homebrew]

+1 for the stc 1000, if you do not mind a little DIY. If you can get the right revision you can flash it with alphaomega's stc 1000+ which allows for F settings as well as some other features.

 

[blkandrust]

I have the Johnson Controls A419 and plugged into a chest freezer it works great.

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