Fermentation temperature control

[Pogierob]

Just want to know what other people are doing to maintain a consistent temperature.

I have a TSC -1000 temp control unit
which I intend to hook up to a chest freezer with a heater inside.

I believe with this set up I should be able to brew anything any time.

[weizgei]

That's exactly what I'm doing, an STC-1000 controlling an old fridge in my garage, with the heating side plugged into a 100w floodlight that sits in the bottom of the fridge. Works perfectly for any kind of brew, any time of the year.

Just bought another STC-1000 to use in a cupboard in my garage to keep it above 18C so I can bottle condition my ales out there (currently doing that inside). At $18 delivered, plus a few dollars for the wiring/plugs, they're great value. Got my latest one from here: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/220V-Digital ... b02&_uhb=1

[jello]

I use a TempMate and a small upright freezer.

In the colder months I put a heatpad in with the brew (not in contact with the fermenter). More than enough heat to maintain the temperature.

[emnpaul]

Same, same.

I can theoretically brew anything anytime but try to work with the seasons when it comes to ferment temperatures and yeast. What I mean is I tend to brew my lagers in winter and ales in spring and summer. I might even go for a Saison or two summer. The theory behind this is to minimise power consumption and to prolong the life of my ferment fridge.

[Oliver]

I split off the discussion about using a timer to heat mash liquor here.

[morebeermark]

G'day Fella's,
I recently got hold of a 450 ltr chest freezer and temperature controller as per instructions found else where in this site. I found a reptile heating chord attached to an old oven grill gives plenty of heat to keep the chest at the correct temps required for brewing. It's only 25 watts and cost about $20 dollars. Nice gentle heating and low current draw, easier for the temperature controller to handle. Having said that, it's only been running 'on test' as I haven't had time to get a brew down. Slack, eh!

[rotten]

Morebeer needs to get off his backside and brew more beer

[morebeermark]

Work, it's the curse of the drinking man! Dun'no who said it but it certainly rings true in my experience.

[CrookedFingers]

I use an STC-1000 and fridge. I have an immersion heater I use to keep temps up, and the fridge kicks on to get them down when needed. Cold crashing etc.
The reptile heater is a great idea, I have heard of that before, thinking of doing the same.
Alternatively I may employ the same method as Weizgei, a lamp in the fridge.

[weizgei]

That's no lamp, that's a 100W floodlight my friend. And it's RED so the beer ferments faster.

[CrookedFingers]

I stand corrected with my head hung low.....


haha