Replies

1. 
   ring | Apr 24, 2005 10:21am | #1

   I long ago had a similar problem with a cabinet about half the size you're talking about.  I put a 40 watt bulb inside that I left lit all the time and it did the trick perfectly, but it'll depend on how good the insulation is and your local weather.  With some experimenting you'll find the right wattage.

   DR

1. 
   twotowers | Apr 24, 2005 07:21pm | #4

   Thanks DR.
   Best,
   Jim

2. 
   Jeff | Apr 24, 2005 04:17pm | #2

   Any old frig or freezer with a bulb or heat strip will work.

   Mine has a thermostat and keeps all my finishes at 60 all year.

   Look in your local dump or tranfer station for one the right size and free.

   Jeff

    

1. 
   twotowers | Apr 24, 2005 07:19pm | #3

   Jeff,
   Thanks so much for your advise! I am delighted there is a simple solution!
   Best
   Jim

1. 
   Jeff | Apr 25, 2005 01:45am | #5

   Happy to help.

   Sometimes the simple answer is right at our feet.

   Jeff

1. 
   twotowers | Apr 25, 2005 03:03am | #6

   Thanks Jeff,
   Did you say a reating wire would do? I have a "heating wire" that is for rapping pipes that tend to freeze -do you think that would be safe to use?
   Best,
   Jim

1. 
   nikkiwood | Apr 25, 2005 08:19am | #7

   I would be cautious about installing a heating wire in an enclosed space. The light bulb trick really does work. You just have to diddle around until you hit on the right wattage."I would never die for my beliefs because I might be wrong."
   -- Bertrand Russell

2. 
   Jeff | Apr 25, 2005 04:11pm | #8

   I first used a bulb.

   Then switched to one of the heating wires for pipes with a built in thermostat and watertight.

   I was careful to drape the wire across the metal rack shelves only, not the plastic.

   Worked for 2 years now without a problem.

   Keeps the freezer at 60 degrees all winter.

   I turn it off in the summer.

   Jeff