Let’s Talk About Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box
Winter can be a beautiful time of year, but it can also be a stressful time for those of us who rely on open water. Ice formation can damage docks, boats, and even the ecosystem itself. That’s where the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box comes in, offering a solution to keep your water open and your assets protected.
For years, I’ve been battling ice build-up around my dock using various methods, from manual ice chipping (a back-breaking task!) to relying solely on the de-icer itself. The problem was, the de-icer would run constantly, wasting energy and money during periods when the temperature wasn’t consistently freezing. I needed a smarter solution, something that gave me more control over when the de-icer activated.
Upon unboxing the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The control box feels solid and well-made, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its straightforward design, with clear markings, hinted at an easy installation and operation, a stark contrast to some of the overly complicated tech I’ve dealt with in the past.
Compared to a simple on/off switch or even a basic timer, the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box offers a far more sophisticated level of control. I briefly considered a competitor’s model with a digital interface, but the Kasco’s combination of temperature and time control ultimately won me over. Its analog design felt more reliable and less prone to failure in harsh conditions.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for energy savings and improved ice control, but I also wanted to see how well it performed in real-world conditions. Would it be as easy to set up and use as it appeared? Only time (and freezing temperatures!) would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box at my dock on a crisp November day, just as the first threat of freezing temperatures loomed. The installation was surprisingly simple; it took about 30 minutes to wire the control box to the de-icer and mount it securely. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, a welcome change from some of the cryptic manuals I’ve encountered over the years.
The first real test came during a week of fluctuating temperatures. During the day, the temperature would rise above freezing, only to plummet below zero at night. Thanks to the temperature controller on the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box, the de-icer only activated when the air temperature dropped to the pre-set level. The time control also allowed me to specify that the de-icer would only run during nighttime hours, further minimizing energy consumption.
Using the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box was intuitive. I quickly grasped how to adjust the temperature and timer settings to optimize the de-icer’s performance. After the first night of freezing temperatures, I was relieved to see a large, ice-free area around my dock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full winter season of use, the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box has proven to be a reliable and effective solution for ice control. It has consistently activated and deactivated the de-icer according to the pre-set temperature and time parameters. This has resulted in significant energy savings compared to running the de-icer continuously.
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box has held up remarkably well to the harsh winter conditions. Despite being exposed to snow, ice, and freezing rain, the control box shows no signs of wear and tear. The housing remains watertight, and the internal components have continued to function flawlessly.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply inspect the connections periodically to ensure they are secure and free of corrosion. In comparison to previous winters, where I struggled with inconsistent ice control and high energy bills, the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box has been a game-changer.
Breaking Down the Features of Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box
Specifications
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box is designed to control a single 120V de-icer. It features both an air temperature controller and a timer clock, allowing you to set both the temperature at which the de-icer turns on, and the time of day it operates. Its key features include:
- Air Temperature Controller: This allows users to pre-determine the air temperature at which the de-icer should activate.
- Timer Clock: This built-in timer enables users to specify the exact times of the day the de-icer should operate.
These specifications are crucial for optimizing the de-icer’s performance and minimizing energy consumption. By setting a specific temperature threshold, you can prevent the de-icer from running unnecessarily during warmer periods. The timer clock further enhances control by allowing you to target specific times of day when ice formation is most likely to occur.
Performance & Functionality
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box performs its job exceptionally well, providing precise and reliable control over the de-icer. The temperature controller is accurate, and the timer is easy to program. The combination of these features allows for efficient and effective ice control.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. It offers a straightforward solution for managing de-icer operation without the need for complex digital interfaces or extensive technical knowledge. A potential area for improvement might be a more granular timer setting (e.g., 15-minute increments instead of hourly).
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box far exceeded my expectations. I was impressed with how consistently and accurately it controlled the de-icer, ultimately saving me time, money, and peace of mind.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box boasts a rugged and durable design. The materials used are high-quality, and the construction is solid, providing confidence in its ability to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Its weight is substantial, lending to a feeling of quality and durability, while not being cumbersome.
The control box is very user-friendly, with clear markings and simple controls. There is little to no learning curve involved in setting up and operating the device.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box is built to last. Its robust construction and weather-resistant materials suggest a long lifespan, even in demanding environments. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box requires minimal maintenance. A periodic inspection of the wiring and housing should be sufficient to ensure its continued operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box does not come with any accessories beyond the standard mounting hardware. However, its simple design makes it compatible with most standard 120V de-icers. No customization options are available, as it is a self-contained control unit.
Pros and Cons of Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box
Pros
- Precise Temperature Control: Prevents the de-icer from running unnecessarily during warmer periods.
- Programmable Timer: Allows for targeted operation during specific times of day.
- Robust and Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions for years of reliable service.
- Easy to Install and Use: Simple design and clear instructions make setup and operation a breeze.
- Significant Energy Savings: Reduces electricity consumption compared to running a de-icer continuously.
Cons
- Hourly Timer Increments: A finer level of timer adjustment (e.g., 15-minute increments) would be beneficial.
- No Digital Display: Some users may prefer a digital display for more precise temperature and time settings.
Who Should Buy Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box?
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box is perfect for:
- Dock Owners: Protect your dock from ice damage with precise control.
- Boat Owners: Keep the water around your boat ice-free.
- Pond Owners: Maintain open water for fish and other aquatic life.
- Anyone Seeking Energy Savings: Reduce electricity consumption by only running your de-icer when necessary.
Who should skip this product? Anyone needing to control a de-icer that is not a 120V model.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A weatherproof enclosure for added protection in extremely harsh climates is optional.
Conclusion on Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box
The Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box is a valuable addition to any ice-prevention setup. It delivers reliable performance, straightforward operation, and significant energy savings. Its combination of temperature and time control offers a level of precision that is simply not available with basic on/off switches or timers.
At $282.15, the price is certainly justified, considering the long-term cost savings and the peace of mind it provides. I would personally recommend the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box to anyone looking for a reliable and effective way to manage their de-icer.
Don’t let ice damage your property or drain your wallet. Invest in the Kasco 120350 De Icer C 20 Control Box and take control of your winter ice problems.