Fermentation Cabinet
How can I make my homebrew better? That was and still is the #1 question for most homebrewers. Temperature control during the fermentation is very important but it was difficult for me to control. Cooling was my problem, so I came up with this fermentation conditioner idea. I decided to take an old dehumidifier and donate it to a better cause. The only tricky challenge was reworking the Freon coil without damaging it. After that I could insert the coil into an insulated box with a gasketed door. I also needed a fan to blow air over the coil to keep the coil from icing and improve the air circulation in the chamber. The controls consisted of an external temperature controller with a capillary tube inside the box. A good dial thermometer and a vent to let the “yeast exhaust” escape completed the project. Also, safety is #1 when I build anything, especially when it comes to working with electricity.
With this build, I can hold my temperatures right on the money. The best part is that I built it all for free! I used all recycled materials from home and construction jobsites (one of the perks from being a construction electrician.) A year later I remodeled my kitchen, which left me with a nice countertop for the top of the chamber. Even if you have to buy some material, you can build this project for a reasonable cost. I recommend a helper for this project.
Safety note: Make sure there are no live un-insulated electrical components exposed while you build this chamber. Also, protect yourself by plugging the dehumidifier into a ground fault interrupter receptacle (GFI). Stay clear of all electrical connections and the compressor fan when you have the cover removed.
Tools and Materials
Ruler
Pencil/Sharpie
Tubing bender
Circular saw with wood blade
Sawzall w/wood and metal blades
Drill w/bits and driver tips
Holesaws
Tinsnips
Screwdrivers
Razor knife
Wire strippers/crimpers
Dehumidifier
Plywood/OSB (Oriented strand board)
1-inch Dowfoam insulation board
1 pair of hinges
1 hasp or latch
1⁄4-in. x 3⁄4-in. self-stick gasket material
Framing lumber 2 x 4’s etc. (not treated)
3 Conductor 14-gauge SJO cord
Wire nuts and ring terminals
Rubber cord connectors
Unistrut and angle clips
Misc. nuts and bolts, screws
Duct seal/caulking
Computer fan with guard
Temperature controller w/remote sensor
Dial thermometer and bracket
Misc. closed cell insulation
Drip pan
Construction adhesive/glue
Ground fault receptacle (GFI)
Kitchen countertop (optional)
Paint or stain (optional)
Misc. 3⁄4-in. PVC fittings (optional)
