27 replies to this topic

[Antkeeper01]

I might put them in the basement.

[Ants_Dakota]

that is what i have been doing for the past few years, but it is like only 60 down there.

[Antkeeper01]

Id say around 60 to.

[Domagoj]

I am thinking of getting this https://www.amazon.c...3-4aad70960d99 

because of the price and reviews.

That unit uses thermoelectric device to achieve cooling (Peltier element), not a full refrigeration gas exchange cycle. While those do work in general, this particular seems to lack a thermostat, something that is probably a very important aspect in this case. From the pictures it seems to only have Hot / Cold switch, and the temperature to which it can cool down is highly dependent on ambient temperature.

You would need to install some sort of temperature controller, something like STC-1000 module would be fine, but would require some work with mains electrical wiring, which I would suggest you do not do if you don't know what you're doing.

Also note that if that mini fridge is not capable of dropping the temperature to what is needed, then you're out of luck, and taking into account that the device is only 40W, coupled with quite inefficient Peltier devices, it is entirely possible that it won't be able to cool down enough from room temperature.

[Ants_Dakota]

 

I am thinking of getting this https://www.amazon.c...3-4aad70960d99 

because of the price and reviews.

That unit uses thermoelectric device to achieve cooling (Peltier element), not a full refrigeration gas exchange cycle. While those do work in general, this particular seems to lack a thermostat, something that is probably a very important aspect in this case. From the pictures it seems to only have Hot / Cold switch, and the temperature to which it can cool down is highly dependent on ambient temperature.

You would need to install some sort of temperature controller, something like STC-1000 module would be fine, but would require some work with mains electrical wiring, which I would suggest you do not do if you don't know what you're doing.

Also note that if that mini fridge is not capable of dropping the temperature to what is needed, then you're out of luck, and taking into account that the device is only 40W, coupled with quite inefficient Peltier devices, it is entirely possible that it won't be able to cool down enough from room temperature.

 

thanks for the advice! i might have to go with what concordantman said than!

[Domagoj]

No problem. Yeah, that one seems to be much more serious appliance.

On a side note, I just realized that I have pretty much all the bits I need to make my own Peltier fridge, and considering that the cheapest mini fridge available locally that I like is about $700, it might be worthwhile. I could also make it to fit the terrarium I plan on eventually using for ants. I might also add some lights inside for the plants. It's not gonna look as pretty, but should work fine, provided I can do the maths for the number of Peltier devices needed.

[Ants_Dakota]

maybe i will ask AntsDakota if he can keep my ants in his mini fridge. i found a good one that is 80, but the budget is tight and i want to spend my extra money on formicarium supplies.

[M_Ants]

This reminds me of something.....https://www.formicul...nation-chamber/

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