Reddit reviews 10 Amp Variac Variable Transformer with Isolation, 1000va Max, 0~130 Volt Output

This is a new Variac I got for repairing CRTs. Got this one on Amazon. It's a fully Isolated Variac so no isolation transformer required, and it's already come in handy fixing a good ol' K7000 in Dig Dug.

This thing seems to be made pretty sturdy and the control feels good. It has an on board 10A fuse and cranked all the way up gets to 135V output.

Here is a link to it: https://www.amazon.com/Variac-Variable-Transformer-Isolation-1000va/dp/B006NGC6HU

Bit spendy but I think it will definitely pay for it's self over time.

Open up tent vents to allow air to be pulled through those.

If money isn't too much of an issue, I use one of these to control multiple fans speeds.. YOu could use this on your exhaust fan to keep it more balanced or slightly negative pressure.

Edit: forgot to add...good job on the grow! and yes, all of those should be nice fat colas soon!

One thing I did wrong and I'd suggest you do, is make sure you get one that can handle higher amps. Some tube amps do pull upwards of 5 or 6 amps, and I got a 3 amp one and have burned a fuse or two with that being setup incorrectly, once I figured that out, I was careful to not over do it, but it was only one amp that ran at about 4A I think, not sure I recall the model etc, and it's only been one amp, but that's one important thing to consider. If you're going to use it a lot, it's worth saving up and getting a well built brand, but if not, then go for the cheaper models. I think I got this one: https://smile.amazon.com/Parts-Express-Variac-Variable-Transformer/dp/B00BXJYO6I/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1519332865&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=variac but it's the 3A version, here's one that's 5A and less expensive, but not sure how great it would be: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B076Y2XHRS/ref=sspa_dk_detail_3?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B076Y2XHRS&pd_rd_wg=aRA3q&pd_rd_r=CS27F03X270JC48FRH4E&pd_rd_w=YJVX3

If I were to do it again, I'd likely go for one like this that's also an isolation transformer: https://smile.amazon.com/Variac-Variable-Transformer-Isolation-1000va/dp/B006NGC6HU/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1519332960&sr=1-1&keywords=variable+isolation+transformer

Also, if you want to double down, grab a half decent Variac/Autotransformer and plug the radio into that. Old tube radios and amps that have been sitting unused for a long time are susceptible to being blown. The filament inside the tubes usually have moderate resistance but being in cold storage for so long, they will take longer to heat up and allow for proper operation. The variac will allow you to start the voltage low, somewhere around 80 volts, then slowly bring the radio up to line voltage. Here's one that I have and use often:

http://www.amazon.com/Variac-Variable-Transformer-Isolation-1000va/dp/B006NGC6HU


There are ones out there that are a little cheaper, and of course you can pick up a nice one that's used for a decent price as well.

Most people are wrong 😉

I've got a pile of non-variable autotransformers downstairs, mostly ratted out of old equpment. And here's a variac (PHC Enterprises SC-10T for reference) that's not an autotransformer. It's even red 😉

(edit: here's a better example of the latter that explains/shows how an isolated (i.e. not-autotransformer) variac is constructed. edit #2: and here's one that's an actual VARIAC-branded variac - by ISE Staco, who own the registered trademark.)

This is a Craftsman 113.19706 motor from the 70's. You cannot use VFD's on this sort of motor; VFD means Variable Frequency Drive and this sort specifically are damaged if operated on anything other than 60hz.

Fortunately you do not need one, a simple ceiling Full-range fan dimmer control should work fine. Note that the manual recommends a 5amp fuse/protection, despite the faceplate listing 6amp.

Full Explanation of the different motor types and methods of control can be found HERE. You have an AC Induction (Capacitor) motor, and I suspect would rather buy the Triac style control before you go for the Transformer style