ᐅ KALLAX Converted into a Party Cooler – Issues with Condensation?
Created on: 17 Nov 2019 20:23
B
banona
Hello everyone,
I converted an IKEA KALLAX into a party fridge by installing a small compressor cooler. It actually works quite well, but I am now facing a persistent problem with condensation inside. The front doors and shelves regularly become quite damp, which is not only unpleasant but could also lead to mold growth if I don’t ventilate regularly.
I’m wondering if the condensation is mainly caused by temperature differences, insufficient insulation, or perhaps poor air circulation inside the KALLAX? And how could this issue be solved permanently without having to constantly ventilate or wipe it dry?
Do you have any experience with this kind of conversion or tips on how to avoid condensation in a DIY party fridge? I would appreciate any advice!
I converted an IKEA KALLAX into a party fridge by installing a small compressor cooler. It actually works quite well, but I am now facing a persistent problem with condensation inside. The front doors and shelves regularly become quite damp, which is not only unpleasant but could also lead to mold growth if I don’t ventilate regularly.
I’m wondering if the condensation is mainly caused by temperature differences, insufficient insulation, or perhaps poor air circulation inside the KALLAX? And how could this issue be solved permanently without having to constantly ventilate or wipe it dry?
Do you have any experience with this kind of conversion or tips on how to avoid condensation in a DIY party fridge? I would appreciate any advice!
In addition to the previous posts, here are some technical notes:
The condensation issue is essentially a classic dew point problem: the surface of the KALLAX interior sides cools down significantly due to the cooling. When the surface temperature falls below the dew point of the indoor air, moisture condenses.
The dew point temperature depends on the absolute humidity in the room. Inadequate insulation can create cold spots that more easily fall below this dew point threshold.
To prevent this:
- Use as homogeneous and highly insulating materials as possible (XPS, PUR).
- Ensure a professional vapor barrier to protect the wooden panels from moisture.
- Improve air circulation with small fans.
- If needed, modify the ventilation openings of the cooling module to prevent humid indoor air from entering.
One more thing: thermoelectric coolers are more problematic regarding condensation compared to compressor-based solutions, as their cooling performance is often not regulated consistently and they do not reduce air humidity like air conditioning units.
The condensation issue is essentially a classic dew point problem: the surface of the KALLAX interior sides cools down significantly due to the cooling. When the surface temperature falls below the dew point of the indoor air, moisture condenses.
The dew point temperature depends on the absolute humidity in the room. Inadequate insulation can create cold spots that more easily fall below this dew point threshold.
To prevent this:
- Use as homogeneous and highly insulating materials as possible (XPS, PUR).
- Ensure a professional vapor barrier to protect the wooden panels from moisture.
- Improve air circulation with small fans.
- If needed, modify the ventilation openings of the cooling module to prevent humid indoor air from entering.
One more thing: thermoelectric coolers are more problematic regarding condensation compared to compressor-based solutions, as their cooling performance is often not regulated consistently and they do not reduce air humidity like air conditioning units.