Spare DC Power Supply

[Brighteyebeer]

I've intro'd 12v DC Solar type pumps into my brewery recently. My gravity system involved HLT at worktop height, sparging into MT, which output into a run-off vessel (aka 'bucket'!) at floor level. Repeated lifting and emptying of this into the boiler at worktop height was a bit tedious. When I got a case of tennis elbow (which is NOT as funny as it sounds!), I thought I'd get a pump to do the work. I already had an old DC adaptor with switchable voltage, which lets me vary the pump's speed. I just needed the pump and connectors, and I was all set. Here it is working (although the pump's just out of shot in the foreground, but you get the idea):



I subsequently employed a second pump between CFC and FV (which is up on a sturdy shelf). I could've used the same one, but as they're not unknown to break down mid-brew, thought a second pump would be a fail-safe. The thought then struck that the old power brick could burn out, again in mid-brew, so a spare DC adaptor would be another fail-safe. This thought was promptly filed on the mental 'to do' list - I'm sure you know the one

Some time later, rooting about in a cupboard, I came across an old, redundant modem, with power brick still attached. Only 10 volts, but more than enough amps. Getting the right connector for my pump cost 75p on Ebay. Snicked-off the old modem connector, soldered the new one on, and tried it out. A bit slower than the 12volt adaptor, but better than running around like a headless chicken with no power supply mid-brew

Users of 12 volt pumps or other kit, root through your old electronics. You may find a free spare power supply!

Cheers,
Chris