Build Your Own Temperature Controller
Temperature fluctuation during fermentation is something that can completely nullify all the hard work put into your mash and boil. Too warm and your yeast will begin to produce fruity esters, or potentially harsher ‘fusel’ alcohols. Too cold and your yeast won’t be making beer!
This makes a fermentation chamber an essential part of your brewhouse - ales or lagers, the world is your oyster.
Fermentation chambers are typically refrigerators - this provides cooling, insulation, and darkness. Unless your fridge allows you to dial in a specific temperatures in the 45F-75F range, you don’t have the full spectrum of temperatures needed for ales and lagers.
Solution: Retrofit your fridge with a temperature controller!
Features of a Temperature Controller
Digital vs. Analog
Temperature Units: Fahrenheit/Celsius
Cooling Control, Heating Control, Both?
Buy one
Johnson Controls Digital Thermostat ~$80
Johnson Controls Thermostat - ~$50
BrewsBySmith Fermentation Kit - $125-140
Boooring...
Make one
I took a slightly different approach, and decided to make my own! Major credit to the Loudmouth Brewer, where he outlines everything you need to know to make a kick-ass temperature controller for <$60.
Guide
https://loudmouthbrewer.wordpress.com/2013/12/10/diy-stc-1000-2-stage-temperature-controller-wiring-diagram-with-indicator-lights/
Parts list
1 x Inkbird Digital Temperature Controller
1 x Leviton Outlet 15 Amp, 125 Volt
1 x Black Wallplate/Shield
2 x 18 AWG Universal Power Cord
1 x Hammond Project Box Black
1 x Screw Mount Power Inlet
3 x Wire nuts
3 x 18 Gauge Female Spade Quick Disconnects
1 x Zip tie
1 x Rubber grommet (1/4″)
Notes/Deviations
Used two power cords - one was sacrificed for wiring within the project box, the other was 12′ long as I wanted a bit of slack
Didn’t add LED indicators, I wired #6 and #8 directly to the outlet
I used a screw mount power inlet and quick disconnects
Added a grommet to the temperature sensor hole, preventing chafing
Added a ziptie onto the temperature sensor wire, ensuring the wire can’t be yanked out accidentally
Used a Dremel for everything
Final Product
Took about two hours, and produced a beautiful temperature controller!
I failed to take process shots, but this is what it looks like:
