On Fri, 02 Dec 2005 10:11:17 -0600, Pete Bergstrom
wrote:


Last winter I used lamps to slightly warm my mill and lathe over the
cold period when I don't use the shop (to keep the condensation problem
down). I'm doing that right now, but the light bulbs burn out and even
when working they make a nice glow that escapes the garage, probably
alerting the up-to-no-good-types that there's something of value in there.

I've been looking for coffee-cup warmers, which I've read will do
something similar as they put out about 25 watts of heat. They don't
seem to be around anymore.

Any other suggestions? I have a Model Engineer's Workshop issue from a
few years ago that has a DIY thermostat and heater project, but I'd just
as soon use something cheap and ready-made.

Thanks,
Pete (in St. Paul, MN)
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Hey Pete,

I don't think there is much you can do "for free". You'll have to
spend something, no matter what you do.

And it doesn't really take much. The metal does not have to be
"warm", but just warmer that the dew point in the shop

Ceiling fans help considerably. Just left on, directed over the
machines, it will help a lot.

Cover the machines loosely with something that will hold some heat in,
like a blanket or cardboard box. Then put a light bulb underneath. If
you can put a thermostat (garage sale tops 5 bucks) in line with the
bulb. It will help, but note that most thermostat's won't "set" to
below 50 degrees or so.
If you do so, two hints.. use good "Rough Service" bulb(s),...and
either a "cord light dimmer" which cuts the lamp output to about 1/2,
or a lamp dimmer that allows even greater control.

Take care.

Brian Lawson,
Bothwell, Ontario.