With all the hot weather recently, I've noticed electrically cooled cool boxes for sale in a few places. These are basically standard cool boxes with some sort of electric refrigeration built in that usually runs off 12 volts DC (designed for plugging into car cigarette lighter sockets).
Here are a few examples...
http://www.argos.co.uk/ProductDisplayTR ... er=3409505
http://www.mobilegas.co.uk/mobilecoolbo ... /index.htm
http://cgi.ebay.ie/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vie ... B:EF:IE:11
Do you think these could be used to keep fermentation temperatures cool? I was thinking I could just use one un-modified as a primary fermenter - just ferment directly in one as long as the inside is made from food grade plastic?
I don't have the space for a dedicated fermentation fridge and these things are small and low power and relatively cheap. I could just use a timer switch to turn the cooler on and off to maintain correct temperature, or else invest in a dedicated temperature controller.
What do people think of these as primary fermenters?
Electric coolbox for primary fermentation
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Frothy
Most of them have lids that clamp shut with the handle right? Obv' they're not gas tight but with a bit of silicon sealant around the rim to form a gasket surely no reason why not with a hole drilled in the top for a bung/airlock. 12v is safe with liquids and as long as there aren't any nasty steel bits to rust and get into your brew.
Some are better at chilling than others. We bought a cheap one (£15)and it would achieve about 6oc fairly easily but broke, my friend spent £50 and his is so good that it eventually forms ice.
good thinking batman
Matt
Some are better at chilling than others. We bought a cheap one (£15)and it would achieve about 6oc fairly easily but broke, my friend spent £50 and his is so good that it eventually forms ice.
good thinking batman
Matt