Making a Proofing box
I have seen many posts on this subject and I want to make my own proofing box.
My friend, and fellow baker has a box (Big enough for 2 small bannetons and a cup of water) made of polystyrene insulating material. It is heated via a 40 watt light bulb in the (Removable) lid of the box, and the temperature is manually controlled by a dimmer switch. This is fine when he is present/awake for short term proofing/bulk fermentation, as temperatures can be monitored easily, but not so good if you wish to bulk ferment dough or final proof loaves overnight.
Looking at all the previous postings, I have come to the conclusion that it is immaterial what the box is made of so long as it is well insulated (Non flammable at the temperatures likely to be experienced) and of a size that is suitable fo the ammount of dough/bread that I and my oven can process at any one time.
I have seen the Brod and Taylor box (Circa $148) available in USA/Canada - I like the look of it but it seems just a little bit on the small side for me and I am not prepared to bay that sum of money for something which is not quite right/big enough for me.
I was buying cat food recently and couldnt help noticing, in the "Snakes and lizards" section of the store, some interesting equipment. There were low wattage heating pads and thermostats suitable for heating the boxes that the animals live in. And guess what? The animals like to live within the same temperature range as my bread doughs.
And now (At last I hear you cry) to my question - Does any one have any experience of this heating system for bread proofing boxes.
Thanks in anticipation.
Brian