DIY fan speed controller?

[Cozy Amnesia]

After searching both ICmag and Google, I couldn't't find much on what should be a pretty simple procedure. I'm hoping to pick up a potentiometer from Radioshack and hook it up no problem. Have any of you guys tried this before?

This is what I'm talking about:

Help?

 

[Cozy Amnesia]

No one? Well that doesn't surprise me because voltage regulation cannot be used on AC motors....so I have come to understand. http://www.drugs-forum.com/growfaq/1540.htm(ah, the overgrow FAQ has served me well once again!)

So I guess I could either make my own solid state fan controller or buy one from HD or something...http://www.drugs-forum.com/growfaq/1659.htm

 

[tree d]

Looks like an accident waiting for a place to happen.

AC voltage regulation is dangerous, it should not be recommended for the DIY'er.

Peace of mind and knowing that I can leave the house without it burning down are more than worth the cost of a properly sized fan.

 

[Elcap]

You can get a solid state controller for about $20, commonly sold under the name "Dial-A-Temp". Little brown box with a dial and recepacle. I've been running a vortex 6" on one for 5? years.

http://www.northlineexpress.com/itemdesc.asp?ic=5SA-4008

 

[petemoss]

Cozy,
Solid state speed controls are more than just a rheostat. Check out this article :
http://home.howstuffworks.com/dimmer-switch.htm The Dial-A-Temp that Elcap showed is a good example of a modern fan speed control built around a triac.

 

[lysol]

I did this with success, $4 homedepot you get a dial fan controller made for wallmounting, just get wire nuts and attach the wires, they screw right over the wires so you dont fool with crimping tools, or do like me and use duct tape.

I would not try to make your own regulator! that is a death wish, especially since some kid in china already made you one just head down to your dept store

 

[wavedash]

I would not try to make your own regulator! that is a death wish, especially since some kid in china already made you one just head down to your dept store

rofl

 

[Cozy Amnesia]

Thanks elcap!

I would not try to make your own regulator! that is a death wish, especially since some kid in china already made you one just head down to your dept store

bwahahahaha!