Need help to build a poor man's cabinet humidor

[LeafLover]

So, I will be buying this humidor. I really want to buy an aristocrat but it is way to pricey.

If you have had experience in or have any ideas on converting this humidor to a temperature and humidity controlled humidor I would appreciate it. FYI, I already have two wineadors but am trying to get a bigger so I can maximize circulation.

Off the top of my head I'm thinking of buying 2-4 thermoelectric Peltier cooling units and screwing them on the inside, affixing computer fans inside, and buy an Oasis humidifier system. I live in Southern California so it gets pretty hot here in the summer.

Thanks again in advance for any advice on the build and on any equipment I should look into.

[MrGinger]

if you are attempting to add thermoelectric cooling, how do you plan on insulating the humi?

[...]

Have you considered the large cooler way for small budget or converted freezer for moderate budget?

[LeafLover]

I'm gathering ideas. I'm a blank slate at this point. Suggestions and advice are welcome.

[LeafLover]

I have the about the cooler but don't want to go the that route as I have no place to put it. And I would t want to leave it in plain view. I could leave it I. The garage but it gets extremely hot in there. The converted freezer would take up too much space in my garage.

The cabinet would occupy the space where my two wineadors are currently at the bottom of my stairs

[LeafLover]

if you are attempting to add thermoelectric cooling, how do you plan on insulating the humi?

Do you think the cabinet would need insulating?

[smokum]

I converted an endtable humi years ago to a cooled unit. You will need the peltiers and a controller. I believe I bought the setup from Bob Staebell as he used to sell the parts. Its still pricey to purchase those parts. I insulated it with the pink hard foam board. My unit only had a glass top so you couldnt really see the pink stuff. It worked good and if I recall I did use an Oasis for it too but I m sure you could get the whole integrated cooler/humidifier package from Staebell. I gave it to my son in law several years ago so I can get pics. Good luck.

[PigFish]

Hi Arnold!

Insulation is a must. You also must calc the box with insulation based on the surface area and the BTU of the cooling units.

The units really should be shielded and also be moisture controlled. They need a drip pan or space to collect condensate. They should be mounted in a non-hygroscopic mount to avoid saturation and destruction of any material like wood.

If you are actively running this thing there are many, many factors to consider and one will be wether you use a 'hodgepodge' of components or attempt to unify the components. If you are really attempting to cool the unit, even the uninsulated glass will likely result in failure. If you want glass, you need replace what you see with a gassed double glazed system such as what is on your current wine coolers.

I am here to help if you need me, feel free to give me a call if you want details.

Cheers! -Ray

[DrunkenMonkey]

Sounds like a cool project.

[LeafLover]

Hi Arnold!

Insulation is a must. You also must calc the box with insulation based on the surface area and the BTU of the cooling units.

The units really should be shielded and also be moisture controlled. They need a drip pan or space to collect condensate. They should be mounted in a non-hygroscopic mount to avoid saturation and destruction of any material like wood.

If you are actively running this thing there are many, many factors to consider and one will be wether you use a 'hodgepodge' of components or attempt to unify the components. If you are really attempting to cool the unit, even the uninsulated glass will likely result in failure. If you want glass, you need replace what you see with a gassed double glazed system such as what is on your current wine coolers.

I am here to help if you need me, feel free to give me a call if you want details.

Cheers! -Ray

Thanks Ray. I'm gonna pass on this project. Sounds way too complicated and time consuming for me. I guess I will need to work some extra shifts to get a product I don't have to tinker with.

Hope all is well Ray.

[LeafLover]

Thank you everyone for replying. I'm abandoning this ship