Need a temp controller switch

[Elvenhome21]

\I need some sort of temp controller switch that I can use with a heating element. I have a CNC plasma water table in a unheated garage. Im looking at getting a water heater element to put in it, but I want to be able to keep the water at just above freezing. Can anybody recommend a inexpensive switch for me.

 

[Elvenhome21]

Also how many watts do you think it would take to heat about 100 gallons to keep from freezing in say 5* weather.

 

[Sureshot]

Use a stock tank heater. It has the thermostat built in.

 

[Muttly]

Or a heater for a fish tank.

 

[kamesama980]

Also how many watts do you think it would take to heat about 100 gallons to keep from freezing in say 5* weather.

5f is pretty cold.

Need more info: it's totally dependant on insulation. If it's an open top metal barrel it'll take a lot more (might be more than the 5kw water heater element) than if it's in a vacuum insulated dewar (10w heater is plenty)

 

[Sureshot]

5f is pretty cold.

Need more info: it's totally dependant on insulation. If it's an open top metal barrel it'll take a lot more (might be more than the 5kw water heater element) than if it's in a vacuum insulated dewar (10w heater is plenty)

A stock tank heater is all we use when it is -40 and the tank sits outside. You may get surface ice on the edges but it melts when it warms or the warmer water tops up the tank. 5 in a building will be no problem.

 

[anthony666]

stock tank heater is a great idea