Which thermoelectric model should I get for my wine coolidor?

[djmoniz]

Well, I'm now ready for wine coolidor. Damn that slippery slope!!!

I've narrowed it down to a 28 bottle thermoelectric model based upon what I've read in the other threads about the advantages of a thermo unit. Looks like the two competing 28 bottle thermo models are the Avanti EWC28 and Edgestar TWR180S. I would greatly appreciate anyone's input that have either of these models about the highest temp setting they will keep without having to add a Johnson controller (would like to avoid that cost). From what I've read, the Avanti will hold around 65-68 degrees but I want to make sure that's pretty consistent among that model. Have not read any posts about the Edgestar t-stat's ability.

I have the wireless hygro from Radioshack so that's covered.

I figure I'll need 2lbs of Heartfelt beads (half on bottom and half at top), is that right?

Looks like I won't need to wire a computer fan since the thermo units have an internal fan to circulate the air, correct?

Spanish Cedar from Rockler for the shelves...what thickness (1/4", 3/8", or 3/4")?

Anything else I'm missing or need to know?

Thanks in advance for your help in transitioning me to the next level of cigar storage!

-Dion

PS - I just realized this is my 400th post so what a fitting topic! I started here in the jungle with a 200 count humi and now 400 posts later I've outgrown my 600 count and looking to convert a freakin' wine fridge so I can keep my BOXES of stogies nice and comfi in the FL heat. Have I cursed the slope yet?!

[moon]

I am working on hooking up an Avanti 28 right now. I had already picked up a tempurature controller before my wine cooler came in. I did run the thing for a few hours without it installed and it seemed to want to be around 62*. As far as the beads I am only using 1 1/2lbs. If you do the math with the interior demensions with Vipers equation it comes out to less than a pound. You can trim off a few dollars there if you end up needing the contoller. Also there was someone on here that said they had a Johnson controller they didn't use they would probably trade. If you need it. As far as fans are concerned I am using two Oust Fans. I am not sure that I really need them as the humidity seems to be the same no matter where I place my Hygros. Spanish Cedar I ordered from Rockler and I got the 1/4" stuff. It should be here on Thursday. I can let you know how that goes once it gets here. I waited to order until I took my own measurements. I am using 65% beads. There are only about 8 empty boxes in there with some other spanish cedar spacer blocks I got out of boxes. My RH level is at 61-62%. The thing smells great from the cedar blocks. I will get the shelves in there hopefully Friday and let it sit through this weekend so the RH can stabalize again. I think once I start to fill it with full boxes the RH will come up to the 65% mark. Check my thread on Wine Cooler Tips! Post #5 from Darsinsa. I believe he used the Edgestar and has the temp. controller for trade. If you decide to go with the Avanti or just want to ask some more questions feel free to PM me. Hope this helped. Congrats on 400th post. Moon.

[chip]

I have the Edgestar 28 bottle and it holds a constant 66 degrees at the highest setting. 2 lbs of 65% beads keep the humidity stable, and the only fluctuations are when I leave the darn thing open so long the interior temp goes over 70 or so, the humidity will drop to about 60 until the temp gets down, then recovers. That does not concern me at all, since all the sticks are in boxes now and 60 is ok, anyway.
It has a fan in the back, but I am considering another one. There is a temp and humidity gradient from the top to bottom, nothing severe (about 2 degrees and 2%) but another fan would probably eliminate most of it.
I do have a Johnson A 419 that I don't use any longer. If you decide you need it, let me know and we can make a trade.

[djmoniz]

Thanks for your input moon and dartsinsa! That's a big help.

Anyone else have either of these models and care to weigh in with your feedback?

-Dion

[doctorcue]

If I'm not mistaken, Sears sells a rebranded Haier for $299. I'm almost certain that it is thermo-electric. I'm going this weekend to find out. If it is, that will be my next investment.

[Bob]

I wanna keep up to date on this thread...eh?

Bob

[joed]

I think that someone posted this link recently - I don't use one of these, so I can't really say too much - but this one did interest me quite a bit and if I convert a closet, I may invest in one.


http://www.kryothermusa.com/index.htm

[djmoniz]

UPATE - I just ordered the 16 bottle thermo model from Avanti for $109. The space I have dedicated for it wouldn't fit the 28 bottle model, so I'm going with the smaller one. I'm sure I'll outgrow it eventually, at which point I'll figure out where to fit another one!

I ordered some kiln dried 1/4" spanish cedar planks and am going to try using my CO for humidification before getting beads. I think the cooler will still seal on top of the ribbon cord...we'll see. I'll post some pics once I get it all set up.

-Dion