Hot Box ?

[nlester]

Just build a hot box and was wondering what size bulbs I should put in it.  Its set up for 4 bulbs.  Any help would be appreciated.  Thanks

[rmorris]

Depends on the size and how insulated it is. Mine is 8x4x1.5' with 1/2" aluminum backed insulation , and I am using 8 - 60w bulbs. I also wired in a dimmer switch so I can adjust the temp that way. Put your form in the box and do a dry run to see what kind of temps you are getting . Hope this helps

[Glunt]

I use 4 100 watters

[milehi101]

I use 3 200 watt

[jsweka]

Originally posted by Glunt:
I use 4 100 watters

Me too.

[tenbrook]

3 X 200w here.

[Roy from Pa]

Depends on how hot you want it to get. I get 93 degrees with three 69 watt bulbs. I only build wood bows. For glass bows you will want around 160 degrees.

[bjansen]

4 x 100 generally works for me....in the dead of winter I usually switch 2 of them out for 150 watt bulbs

[nlester]

I'm just looking to dry wood.  No glass stuff.  I appreciate all the help guys.  Gives me some things to think about.

[Pat B]

Nathan, you don't want over 100 deg for drying wood. Moving air inside the box will help a lot. A small fan will do the job.
 On the 1" vent holes, I used a cheap 1" hole saw from Lowe's. A spade bit will work too.

[nlester]

Originally posted by Pat B:
Nathan, you don't want over 100 deg for drying wood. Moving air inside the box will help a lot. A small fan will do the job.
 On the 1" vent holes, I used a cheap 1" hole saw from Lowe's. A spade bit will work too.

OK.  I appreciate that.  Just curious.  Why do you want it under a 100 degrees for drying wood?

[Roy from Pa]

If you dry the wood at too high a temperature it can develop checks/cracks, warp, etc.

[nlester]

OK.  That makes sense.  Thanks Roy

[Red Tailed Hawk]

2 100 watt bulbs. My box is insulated well, I have the capacity for a total of 4 bulbs on a dimmer switch.