What coolbot doesn’t want you to know: How to save $250 on your cold room build!

In which I demonstrate how you can quickly and easily wire a window AC unit to a $100 thermostat to cool a cold room or resurrect a commercial fridge.
Here's a link to the thermostat I used: www.amazon.com/Thermostat-Tem...
Here is a link to the AC unit I used (you may need a larger unit for a larger cold room): www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...

[@lorrainegardner7624]

How so very smart of you and right on time for me!!! Thank you!

[@galenwarren3579]

I don't understand why this doesn't have a gazillion views. So helpful....so smart........... I think I want to bear your children! OK, maybe just live forever with appreciation of your video. THANKS!

[@RobertDrlicka]

Great Job! I love your happy smile throughout the video!

[@rachelgucker4238]

Thanks! I don't think of myself as super smiley until I see myself on video.

[@RobertDrlicka]

@@rachelgucker4238 It's a Great natural smile and it works because you have passion for what you are sharing.

[@gaber1885]

Awesome video. Thanks for making.

[@nestorespaillat9204]

Nice! Building one as we speak that’s how I symboled onto your video, unfortunately I’ve already bit the coolbot wish I had seen this earlier a a year ago

[@Elkmonger]

Rachel has done us a solid here for sure. To help out I'll offer my AC unit sizing experience. I have Norlake panels that make an 8x5x8 foot walk in cooler with an actual cooler door. I used a 6,600 btu window AC unit to cool it for two years and that unit is just waaaaaaaaay too small. It was a bugger to get it from say 60 down to 35. It would take hours making 5 degree jumps then let it kinda settle out. Otherwise it would ice up almost instantly. And putting something in it if you weren't fast it would ice up. And during the archery season here in NE PA it's really not that humid. This year I used a 12,000 btu unit and it is great. One thing to note if I was to build another cooler I'm not sure I'd use a an actual cooler door. They seem to really suck. The thresholds are usually beat to hell and there's not a lot of sealing options. I need to come up with something. Also, it's just human nature to want to check on what's in there and a door with a window would help - If you were sure it wouldn't ice up. Once the cooler is up and running for an hour or so. I'll take about 10 minutes to go from 38 to 34 and the AC unit will knock it back down in about 4 minutes. The 6,600 BTU unit would take about 15 minutes to cool it down and it would rise to about 40 before it would start coming back down.

[@rachelgucker4238]

Thanks @Elkmonger!

[@willowriverranch7965]

Excellent. Thank you!

[@tabithawarren8249]

So much help!! 🙏 thank you! Looking to save

[@rachelgucker4238]

My pleasure!

[@life.re-defined]

great video.... THANK YOU!!!

[@offthecouch1999]

I'm starting my own 2 acre farm this year and seeimg that i can pit that money elsewhere is a godsend

[@MrTNBassmaster]

I like coolbot literally 5 minutes to setup and I can look at the temps in my cold storage right on my phone wifi enabled. Love it

[@marcripoche]

I'm from Australia and coolbot costs $670au here (for the wi-fi enabled version). I can buy an off the shelf thermostat for $50au. Spend 40mims wiring and get the same results (minus the wifi control). I know which way I'll be going :).

[@notsure7874]

I like them too. I don't like the price tag, it's ridiculous.

[@BD-np6bv]

I make $2-$3 thousand USD per day selling at a farmers market and like $9K on Mother's Day so if it's a hot day and something fails, I need to know immediately. That's where the WiFi monitoring on my phone is worth that much. That's the only reason I'd choose a Coolbot. But for stuff that's not as sensitive, the cheaper way is better for sure.

[@gyges2375]

Nice video Rachel. Unfortunately, I was one of those guys in High School that pretty much skipped physics. That and I'm a hands-on, visual worker. Could you make a video that actually shows what you are doing? Your video is the only one like it I've been able to find and it would be really helpful to see what you are doing. If you've put together a .pdf since making this, I'd be willing to buy the plans as well. Thanks..

[@rachelgucker4238]

I'm disinclined to take it apart and rebuild it purely to make more detailed tutorials, but if I have the opportunity to build one of these again I will take the opportunity to make a more detailed guide for you guys!

[@ph8632]

There are a lot of other videos on youtube showing how its done.

[@larryrobertson3310]

cool, i'm building a walk in!! and yes i am in the south !! God Bless Texas !

[@tobyissac9432]

a tip: you can watch movies on Flixzone. Me and my gf have been using them for watching a lot of movies during the lockdown.

[@koltonsantana2236]

@Toby Issac yea, I have been using Flixzone} for since november myself =)

[@alvaroporter4584]

@Toby Issac Yea, I've been watching on flixzone} for since november myself :D

[@dalerose2894]

Love the video. I am was about ready to buy a coolbot before I saw this video. I used to live in Pennsylvania where just about every house has a basement which was great for storing canned goods at pretty much a constant temperature of 55 degrees. Now I live down south and don't have a basement. I am building a cold room to achieve this so I am only wanting to cool to 50 - 55 degrees. Question: Here in the middle of winter we generally have a few weeks where it gets down to 32 deg. F and sometimes down to below 0F. In this instance is there a way to heat the room back up to 55 deg. so the jars don't freeze using that thermostat. Thanks so much.

[@rachelgucker4238]

I think the thermostat I used here only does cooling, but I'm pretty sure ink bird makes something similar that will accommodate a small heater. I know some people just use an incandescent lightbulb and it's enough to keep stuff from freezing, depending on the size of the space.

[@trevorstolz8580]

Question: Why doesn't someone just make an air condition that will cool a room down to 1 or 2 degrees Celcius (I'm Canadian) if they so desire? Walk in coolers start about about $6000 and lots cost well over $10 000. Thanks for this video. Coolbot is in the States, sold in American dollars. As a Canadian, that means its really expensive since the Canadian dollar is weaker. I have a dairy cow and want to age cheese for six months or more. (Yes, I know that all cheeses don't need to be ages this long, but some do.) I found another video that makes it very simple so that you don't have to fiddle with any wires in the air conditioner and it is very cheap. They don't explain it very well. Here's my explanation: 1) Buy two temperature controllers that you plug into the wall socket that also have a plug in on the unit. These are often used in aquariums and they turn a heater on and off when the temperature reaches a set temperature. For example, you plug the controller into the wall. Then you plug an aquarium heater into the controller. The controller turns on and off, supplying power to the heater or turning if off as required. But for this purpose, you only need two controllers, no heater. 2) Plug the first temperature controller into the wall. Plug the second temperature controller into the first temperature controller. 3) Plug a light bulb on a cord (something like a trouble light) into the second temperature controller. 4) Wrap the sensor that is in the Air conditioner and the light bulb together in aluminum foil. 5) Attach the sensor from the first temp controller to the fins of the air conditioner and set the controller to turn off when the fins of the air conditioner go below a certain temperature, say 33 F and set it to turn on when it goes above a certain temperature, say 37 F. This is controlling the temperature of your cooler. 6) Set the temperature of the second temperature controller to turn off ONLY when the temperature goes above a certain much higher temperature. Basically, whenever the second controller is on, it will be supplying power to the light bulb, creating heat and heating the sensor that is in the Air conditioner. The Air conditioner will "think" it is very warm in the cooler and run as long as the second temperature is powered up. These sensors are cheap and they are used widely to turn a submersible heater on and off, a heater like you use in aquariums. Using this method, you can use a digital air conditioner if you want. The air conditioner will run through its defrost cycle etc and operator normally as it was designed to do. Here's the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3e7i2Shl86VmNE

[@rachelgucker4238]

Hi Trevor! Yes! You can absolutely do it that way if it feels "easier." To me my way sounds easier and that sounds like a Rube Goldberg machine with way too many points of potential failure, but "easy" is completely relative, so if that's what works for you... Go for it! I have some friends who did theirs that way.

[@randyclement2429]

Hey Trevor I'm also a Canadian building a walk-in meat cooler is your system still working and how long did it work on this system I'm looking at the coolbot but yeah 600 bucks go jets go

[@BD-np6bv]

I think the issue is with low priced window AC units, they will get you the desired temperatures with these types of modifications, but you can't be opening the doors repeatedly every 5 minutes. The cheaper AC units just can't compensate. Commercial walk in coolers are large, and they need to basically guarantee commercial customers can continuously go in and out without spoiling their products, which can be in the tens of thousands or more in asset, in just a days worth. That's why they have to include powerful but very expensive AC units.

[@alimamybangura1399]

Thank you

[@ekvinaysayaraj6071]

Please show how to reduce temperature by changing thermostat with the split AC too.

[@ryanravencaller]

The compressor starter is actually a run capacitor which powers and controls both the fan and the compressor

[@rachelgucker4238]

Good to know, thanks. I can also control the fan independently... not sure on the proper lingo for that, but I know it works!

[@tomkoeneman6390]

@@rachelgucker4238 Fan cycling...

[@johnniebunton4978]

hello great video. what state are you in.

[@giuseppenirta2009]

Thanks for the great info. Has anyone tried using a digital type a/c unit? Any help with wiring?

[@jayanders3399]

Use a pocket hand warmer to wrap around ac probe and take off if fins freeze up. 2.99$

[@davej7458]

Rachel you do not sound at all like you're gloating and you are very clever. I love that. I do you have serious concerns about digital systems our power here flickers off and on, often enough to be a problem. When the power flips off most of our digitally controlled things need to be reset. That obviously would not work for a meat cooler because you're not there to reset it every time the power flickers. Coolbot does offer a unit that can be controlled remotely by your cell phone but that seems to introduce a lot more complication and possibility for failure. Am I right in thinking that the unit you've shown will go back to its normal running as soon as the power comes back on? Also that is a part number is it Universal among several manufacturers or is it a particular manufacturer that produces that part? Thank you for the information.

[@rachelgucker4238]

The number is for inkbird brand... I don't know what manufacturer or manufacturers they use. The unit does maintain YOUR settings if the power goes out and comes back on... or your GFI trips... or you borrow the extension chord to use with the skill saw for a minute... or your kid trips on the cord... or whatever. You can see I have lots of experience with it, lol!... it wouldn't work for me at all if that were not the case!

[@tclodfelter8789]

I don't think you could have smiled any bigger when you said "redneck"!! LOL

[@goos3slay3r]

Does the sf-104 store the programed settings after being powered off. As in when I power it down and turn it back on will it run at the same settings I was running or will I have to re-adjust them?

[@rachelgucker4238]

It saves your settings when powered off.

[@heatherrominick2415]

Hi, Thank you for the info! I looked up SF 104 on amazon, the description says is 220 volt. Is that the same unit you use?

[@rachelgucker4238]

The one I have is 110V. www.amazon.com/Thermostat-Temperature-controller-Regulator-evaporator/dp/B01DTRY402/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=sf104&qid=1592498036&sr=8-1

[@heatherrominick2415]

@@rachelgucker4238 next question, does it run a defrost cycle? My ac unit freezes up as it is. Thanks for the help too!

[@rachelgucker4238]

@@heatherrominick2415 Yes, it does, although in my experience, a defrost cycle does not fix freezing up issues with a window AC. Other possible causes are insufficient insulation or holes/leaks in your cold room, the room is too big for the size of AC unit, or there's water stuck in the AC fan housing. Mine only frosts up when there's a perfect storm: high humidity, door left ajar, several bins of hot produce added all at once at noon on a 98 degree day... stuff like that.

[@DamnGoodReviews]

Any luck with a portable ac unit ?

[@daveroth3582]

The SF-104 comes with a transformer, is that not needed? Also, am I only using the wire that was jumped from the fan switch and the wire that goes to the compressor

[@rachelgucker4238]

You will need the transformer because the SF-104 itself runs on a lower voltage. Install it according to the directions that come with the SF-104. You need a line to supply power from the thermostat to the compressor, one to supply power from the thermostat to the fan (so the thermostat can control them independently), and one neutral line (the white wire) running from both components back into the grid through the thermostat.

[@jerrodrowlison-elliott9101]

Hi Rachel, Thank you for this great video. I was wondering what the dimensions of the room are. L x W x H? Thank you again.

[@rachelgucker4238]

You're welcome, Jerrod! My cold storage is just 2' deep, 5' wide and 4' high (approximately). but you can do the same thing for a much bigger room, just size the AC unit accordingly. Coolbot has info on their website about how many BTUs you need for various room volumes, I believe.

[@andrewsickler2946]

Can you add links to the thermostat and parts you used

[@rachelgucker4238]

Done.

[@sethimps]

We in India are also offering similar solution, App based.

[@wiros8101]

How does it work?

[@DanielGarcia-wu2kw]

This is great. Did you leave the filter in or take it out?

[@rachelgucker4238]

Left it in. I may regret that though, since I don’t have room to slide it out.

[@dougschuldt2646]

I must be a dumb dumb. Cant seem to figure out wiring. Have same units. Do I remove yellow and red wires from fan from back of main switch and connect them to SF 104? The one I got came from Amazon and has a seperate power transformer. Is that where black and white power goes to unit?

[@rachelgucker4238]

The transformer goes between the wall outlet and the SF104. It's been long enough since I did this that I don't remember off the top of my head which wire is which color. If I get a chance to rewatch and puzzle it out, I'll get back to you.

[@Nic-mj3ep]

Hi Rachel! Starting some winter projects here. I noticed in another comment you said that a defrost would not fix freezing up...I've run my AC powered cooler (just an air conditioner blowing into a small insulated space) and it would always freeze over. However there was never any modification to the AC unit. Would you still say a defrost cycle would not help prevent this freezing?

[@rachelgucker4238]

I don't really have enough experience to say for sure, but I suspect that there is another problem, because when everything else is right, I don't need the defrost cycle. If I have shut my cooler down and need to start it on a hot day I will set the set point high (50 or so) because the compressor won't take a break until it reaches set point -2 (in my case) I come back later, once it's run several cycles at 50 degrees and crank it down where I want it. This helps because if it freezes on start-up it won't ever unfreeze. If your unit freezes up very gradually, then a defrost cycle might help. Coolbot has some info on their site about using the correct size unit for your space and how much insulation you need to use. Have you checked those? Did you seal all around the AC unit (between it and the wall)? the door? If one of my doors is cracked open even the tiniest bit, it will freeze up. I hope you get it figured out! cold storage is great to have!

[@kirstenhuovinen8369]

Do yu have your tutorial in a step by step written form?

[@rachelgucker4238]

I don't. If I have the opportunity to build one of these again I will take the opportunity to make one.

[@beemanminnesota7683]

Your gloating, but I love it how a woman is not intimidated by a task normally a man territory. I almost purchased the Coolbot, but thought someone already must have figured out this solution, then I find your video.I purchased the SF104 for 220V air conditioner, because I have an 18K BTU AC that was dead but the Compressor runs fine when hot wired. So you saved me from buying a new AC unit and a Coolbot, now I can put up my 8 X 12 walkin cooler for next years crops. My only cost is the SF 104, maybe some foam insulation and few other supplies. A great way of recycling! Thanks for posting about the SF 104, may have not found it on my own because already looked on amazon for controllers, but knew none would work except the Coolbot. This is much better than coolbot as all the electronics known for failure in AC units are bypassed.

[@rachelgucker4238]

This comment made my day! I'm so happy you found this and saved some money. Also, yes! that's an excellent point about bypassing potential points of failure. Best of luck with your farming venture!

[@beemanminnesota7683]

@@rachelgucker4238 There are very few times I wished I could show more appreciation, but this is one of those times. If you have a go fundme account or some way to donate to you let me know.

[@rachelgucker4238]

Beeman Minnesota aw! I’m flattered! I don’t have a gofund me or patreon or anything. If you’d like to do something to show your gratitude, please pay it forward in some way. Maybe you have/will have a good idea to share with the farming community, or you might run across someone else who could benefit from this video.

[@jamesmccay2776]

@@rachelgucker4238 VERY COOL - haha ;-) Thank you both! I am not a farmer but joined HFUU to support regenerative farming as a consumer. Now I cannot get away as they people are great and it's super interesting stuff. I hear the need for a cooling solution so doing some work in between jobs on this to help our farmers. The sharing model is most appreciated and most needed. FYI this long weekend has content that may be of interest (I am in the Waimanalo Chapter if you wanted to join one): hfuuhi.org/ MAHALO!

[@bhimnathtimalsina8788]

Price?

[@920flashback]

I may have missed it but does the SF104 come with a coil sensor to monitor for ice build up of the cooling fins, to initiate a defrost cycle?? product description is very vague that is why I ask. Thanks so much!

[@rachelgucker4238]

It initiates defrost cycles on a timer... every 6, 12, or 24 hours... it may have shorter intervals too. I think if you get the SF102 for freezers it has additional functions and can terminate the defrost cycle based on temperature. I think it has ports for a defrost heater too.

[@920flashback]

@@rachelgucker4238 Than you very much Rachel. I appreciate the response:-)

[@jordanwarren7954]

Is anyone using this to do a walkin freezer successfully?

[@Mistylimpet]

mother what is this i will be confronting you tommorw morning

[@anibalmartinez5142]

Hi how about a box truck w a 16 foot box how big of an ac I need

[@rachelgucker4238]

I think the coolbot website has a guide for this.

[@petalandposeboudoir]

Is this still working for you? Thanks!

[@rachelgucker4238]

Yup!

[@jeffreyhill3960]

What she is calling a starter is actually a capacitor

[@Tiffycha1982]

How's it all holding up almost a year later? Update video please!!

[@rachelgucker4238]

Still working great! Nothing new to report, really.

[@qma5104]

you are an intelligent girl.

[@Pterodactyl-kn3ve]

As of June 2023 a Coolbot is priced at $420.

[@rachelgucker4238]

Insane! Thanks for the update.

[@bensmith2991]

You are so cute!

[@johnlindsey7355]

Girl you so cute

[@roycemontgomery978]

way too much face time

[@metro6028]

coolbot doesn't want us to know this? they told you that? or just trying to be interesting?

[@rachelgucker4238]

Just want to get this info in front of the people who will benefit from it... given the way youtube (and human nature) works, using a dramatic title helps more people see it. I'm aware that it's kind of ridiculous and exaggerated, haha!

[@kevinbrewer9421]

Lol long winded

[@jeddiajones4570]

I watched this twice and clearly missed something. In the video you said you used an analog thermostat, but the link is to a digital one???