Thinking about a fermentation chamber

[BakaBrew]

I have been thinking about building a fermentation chamber for quite a while, but not having time has been a big deterrent. Recently some friends moved out and had a spare 6000 BTU window AC that I snatched up. So I have a space of only about 2' by 4' to work in so the chamber will not be too large. I would like to also get a digital temperature display and possibly creating 2 chambers, one for lagering and the other at about 65 if possible. If you have any knowledge about creating something like this please share your wisdom. I am thinking of making an exterior of plywood with foam insulation and a top that opens like a deep freeze to help keep the heat out.

 

[Boar Beer]

I would stay away from largering until you get the space to build something larger.
figure out temp you are fermenting at now and buy yeast that like that temp.

 

[bendavanza]

Baka
For that you would need a second thermostat and probably a pair of fans to regulate the colder temp from area 1 into area 2. I'd start with the Ales first, then see how you do dropping to lager temps. You will need to seal up the area well, condensation will almost surely be an issue, and freezing of the coil as well. John Beere of deep six did a walk in with a window unit, and has a great thread here somewhere, your space is much smaller but you could gain a lot of knowledge from his experience.

 

[BakaBrew]

Boar:
I have a temp of 110 in the summer down to -17 in winter so fall and spring are the only times that yeast can survive. Luckily SWMBO keeps the inside at 55-85 in the winter so I can ferment inside but I would like more control to avoid unpleasing flavors and dead yest.
bdav:
Thanks for the info about John he used 12v computer fans blow across the evap coils, that has helped as a starting point. I realize that condensation would be a major issue and after reading about Johns project and the associated links am now looking into how much insulation would be needed more than I originally thought.

 

[BakaBrew]

Through Luck HawaiianHippie brought this to the top: https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f51/diy-fermentation-cabinet-86815/
That is almost what I was thinking of making, just with better insulation and a top rather than side that opened.