otrfun wrote:
SJ-Chris wrote:
. . . I'm a DIYer and I enjoy tinkering with modifications . . . I believe a simple high temp thermostat can easily accomplish this task, and they only cost $20. If I only had 1 RV I would probably still just buy a Fridge Defend. But I've got 3 RVs. So if I can implement this DIY fix it will save me 3x the money.
Have you found a suitable 200c sensor and control board combination that operates on 12vdc? IMO realworld temperature accuracy and overall, proven reliability may potentially be the biggest hurdle.
Who wouldn't love a reliable, low-cost alternative to the $200+ FD?! :)
I bought this high temp thermostat to try out.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09TT7VWCK
Cost was $20. One thing that looked interesting is that it has an app so you can
track things on your phone, export the data, etc. I'm not sure, but I don't think Fridge Defend does that. If the app works, that will just be a bonus (...I couldn't find it in the app store and I was paranoid about scanning their QR code).
I bought a tiny clear plastic box for it to go in. The screw in probe housing was easy to slide down the wire so that there is just a cylinder probe end. I will attach it to the boiler tube with a hose clamp like this:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-2-1-1-4-in-Stainless-Steel-Hose-Clamp-6712595/202309385
I hope to get to this project in the next couple of weeks. I'll keep you posted.
-Chris
