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This is the original Controller introduced in 1990. Strictly a mechanical thermostat for cooling only, it is simple to use and economical. It operates with a gas filled probe on a 6’ capillary tube. When the gas contracts or expands in the probe, it triggers a mechanical device inside the control which turns the power on or off.
The Controller features a 20° to 80° F. range, adjustable with the turn of a calibrated knob. There is no probe temperature readout on the dial, so keeping a thermometer inside the refrigerator is a good idea to keep track of the actual temperature. On most refrigerators, the Controller will allow a usable range of 37° to 80° F., while on freezers, the Controller will be able to reach its full 20° to 80° range, assuming the temperature outside the freezer is warmer or the same temperature as the temperature you desire. Like the Brewer’s Edge Controller II, keep in mind that if you use it to control a refrigerator, you will lose the use of the freezer compartment for food storage, as it will not stay cold enough for safe frozen food storage.
The Controller features a preset 31/2° differential. This means if you set the Controller to 60°F., it will cool to 56 1/2° F., shut off, and wait for the temperature to rise to 60° F. again. Like the built in 3° to 7° differential on all home refrigerators and freezers (the stock differential you will be overriding with the Controller), this prevents the compressor from repeatedly turning on and off to maintain a narrow temperature range, reducing wear. Keep in mind that beer (or wine) in a fermenter or in bottles does not fluctuate in temperature nearly as much as the surrounding air.
The Controller will drive up to a 12 amp (110 volt) refrigerator or freezer. It features a 6’ plug-in-a-plug power cord, which keeps power cords at the plug for safety. The 6 foot capillary cord probe tube, although not as flexible as the sensor wire on the Controller II (and not submersible), is only 1/16” diameter, so it can bend around a refrigerator or freezer door (drilling or cutting is not required). Mounting holes in the back of the case facilitate mounting this control on a wall, and a hanging chain is also provided. 1 year guarantee.
Frequently Asked Controller Questions
Question: If I put the probe of the Controller in a refrigerator/freezer in the refrigerator section, will the freezer also be regulated by the Controller? What temperature will the freezer compartment be in this case?
Answer: The freezer compartment temperature will not be the same as the refrigerator, and will vary according to how you set the temperature of the refrigerator. When the Controller is regulating your refrigerator, the freezer will no longer be able to be used for safe cold food storage, as its regular temperature of around 0° F. will no longer be maintained. Generally, figure on the freezer being about 5-15 degrees colder than the temperature you set in the refrigerator compartment.
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