Suitable dehumidifier

[PJS]

Hi

I've only just started to dry cure meat although, I've been making my own bacon and ham for some time. I experimented with an Italian method using the fridge but wasn't happy with the result. I think the UK climate in the North Pennines is too damp, (92% at present) and the fridge temperature too cool on its highest setting.

So I'm converting a frost free fridge to a curing chamber. I've read a few posts that recommend a Peltier system dehumdifier. They seem compact enough but I understand they have a limited temperature range and wouldn't work at around 12°C. Could anyone recommend a suitable method of achieving a reasonable humidity, either by natural means or a suitable small dehumidifier? My aim is to control the temperature with a Hummingbird controller and install a fan on a timer. Any advice would be gratefully appreciated.

[NCPaul]

I use that type so I'm not sure about the reasoning against using one. The other moderator here uses a heater to force the fridge to turn on which dries the air that way. Good luck with your project and welcome to the forum.

[PJS]

Hi, thanks for the reply and welcome. I've found a few pages online that point up the disadvantages of the Peltier system and didn't want to commit to buying one. I intend to use a heater element as part of the build so will put it together and check the humidity range before buying.

[wheels]

Make sure that you check it when there's product in it. There's a massive difference between empty and full. FWIW, my build starts here:

http://www.localfoodheroes.co.uk/?p=convert-fridge

The humidity section is here:

http://www.localfoodheroes.co.uk/?e=782

HTH

Phil

[PJS]

Thanks Phil, I've had a quick look and will try that method. I'm using an Inkbird temp controller. Would you mind giving me an idea of the temperature range I should be looking for to make it work? I take your point about the chamber being full and will monitor it, although I'll only be using small quantities initially.

[wheels]

10 - 15°C is the usual quoted figures. Most of us find that 12°C seems to work well.

Phil

[PJS]

Many thanks again Phil. I appreciate the advice. If my conversion is successful I'll certainly let you know.

[PJS]

10 - 15°C is the usual quoted figures. Most of us find that 12°C seems to work well.

Phil

Update.

Everthing's installed and running, apart from the fan. The temperature is running at 11.5°C to 15.5°C with humidity reading 45 - 50%. It's been steady for the last two days. I'll fit the fan when I have the fixing bolts. Fingers Xd there are no cable or pipe runs in the way.

[wheels]

Be careful with a fan - you need only a very small air flow - opening the fridge door daily will suffice. It's so easy to get case hardening if you use a fan.

Phil

[NCPaul]

I like the "check on the salami" method as well.