How to inexpensively cool a small grow box

[HappyInside]

I have one walk in closet where I grow my main plants under 12/12 with the majority of my CFL lights. In the same closet, I have a box with two 42w cfls, running 18/6 for vegging seedlings their first few weeks. I have to cover the box or the light will escape, and affect my flowering plants. The box gets very hot during the 6 hours the lights are on and it is covered. I have successfully vegged a few plants already, so it works, but I bet it will work better if I can drop the temp (now around 95) dow to say 80F.

Any suggestions? Too small for a fan I believe, plus can't cut holes. Looking for something creative to cool my plants!

 

[Ukeveryday]

Mmmmm Maybe a bowl of ice?? If its steaming cold could chill the box and hopefully last 6hours lol

 

[HappyInside]

haha I tried that! Good idea though. Didn't notice any temperature drop with the ice, all I did was give the gnats all the moisture they wanted!

 

[jare]

I don't see why you can't cut holes in the sides. Use 2 or 3 inch ABS DWV 90° degree elbows (they're black) from a hardware store, there won't be any light leak or reflection inside. Cut a circle in the box slightly smaller than the elbow and push it through, you might need to put some duct tape or something around the connection if you don't get a really tight fit. I guess you could put a second on the opposite side and find a small fan to create a breeze.

 

[HappyInside]

You're a genius! I decided to get a box that is roughly twice the size, so the heat pollution will be less dense. I will also explore these 90 degree vents! I was thinking of doing that but figured the light would escape, not with black though as long as the degree is at least 90. Will post photos once I do it!

 

[HappyInside]

New larger veg box

 

[jare]

Larger veg box looks great, did it reduce temps or did you end up adding extra venting?

 

[Broadsword]

If you have an intake fan then put 2 frozen water bottles next to it, works as a computer intake cooler

 

[Mrvinc911]

Maybe add some cheap PC fans, didn't see any at all in the box.

 

[ikillplants]

I am running a PC fan and a regular fan. It's easy to splice together

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