We get regular requests for jacketed or solid-state cooling devised for our line of conicals. While our competitor offer these, they are very expensive and have limited performance. While we would stand to make more money on the sale of these products, we don't feel that it is the best or most economical solution. The Fermenator is designed to easily fit into an upright freezer which offers the following significant advantages
Much lower cost than jacketing the conical. An upright freezer can be had for $375-550 brand new. The competitors cooling options cost USD $850-$1,275!! Ouch!
Adding a simple thermostat controller to this freezer will allow you
to get significantly more cooling - cool to 28F or less!! Solid state
coolers can do about 25-30F off of ambient MAX. So if you're in
a garage in the summer, you'll be lucky to reach ale temps much less
lager temps. Using a light bulb or pad heater will also allow you
to heat the freezer in the winter.
Much more economical, quieter, and reliable to operate. For typical
use, these will cost about U.S.D $25/yr to operate.
Can be used for beer storage when not fermenting
Takes little more floor space than the conical itself
No foam insulation or clumsy wiring to mess with for cleaning the conical
In the U.S.A Frigidaire (or Kenmore equivalent) The 13.7 cu ft model
FFU1464FW (28W X 28.5D X 59H) work well for the 7 and 14.5 gal Fermenators.
The 20.3 cu ft model FFU2065FW (32W X 28.5D X 70H) works well with the
27 and 42 gal models. These are all frost-free units. We have no control
over the design of these freezers, so it is best that you measure the
actual unit before purchasing to ensure that it will fit. You will
need to source alternatives depending where you are located.
Install a thermostat control .
FRIDGE Temperature CONTROL THERMOSTAT 0-40C (fan control)
The Fan control thermostat is designed for use with a fridge or freezer.
With the fridge plugged into the thermostat, the temperature can be set
as low as 1C.
The unit turns on when the temp rises above the set temperature.
1 metre of capillary probe sensor is placed inside the fridge or freezer and
the fridge is plugged into the thermostat.
Thermostat ..Made in Australia..........$105.00
This model does not require drilling but utilise a long cord and probe. These are easier to use .
build a plywood base from 3/4 plywood and 2X8's to raise the height of the conical high enough to gravity drain to kegs if desired. Or use the pressurization feature of the Fermenator to pump into kegs. For the 27gal model, you'll need to raise it about 8" to clear the ledge on the back of the freezer to get it to fit.
