For a fraction of the cost of a traditional walk-in-cooler, a new device called the CoolBot will turn any brand of  window air conditioner (purchased separately) into a cooler. It provides a much simpler alternative to the air conditioner rewiring that has been promoted by USDA and mentioned in Growing for Market many times. The new device was invented by Ron Khosla, a New York farmer who is already well known for creating the Certified Naturally Grown alternative to organic certification.
    The CoolBot regularly costs $299, but can be purchased until June 15 at an introductory price of $249. Here’s what Khosla says about the CoolBot:
    “CoolBot uses new patent-pending technology that just became available in 2006 to turn any brand of off-the-shelf, window-type air conditioning unit (purchased separately) into a turbo-charged cooling machine. A 15,000 BTU, Energy Star compliant air conditioner from Home Depot cost $265 last summer, and provides more cooling power than a standard $2400 (plus installation!) walk-in cooler compressor available online. The problem with a window air conditioner is that you can’t set your air conditioner to go below 55-60 degrees. Even if you could set it that low, it would quickly freeze up. CoolBot uses new patent-pending technology to solve both these problems, allowing you worry-free access to storage temperatures into the 30s.
    “CoolBot saves operating costs too. Combining CoolBot with a new Energy Star compliant Air Conditioner can save you up to 60% in electrical operating costs compared to a normal walk-in cooler due to more efficient motors and less energy spent in blower fans. A 5 step, 15 minute installation process requires no electrical or mechanical skills and most importantly, makes no warranty-voiding modifications to your air conditioner.”
     For more information: 888-871-5723; www.storeitcold.com.