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Subject:Re: anyone bought a Coleman thermoelectric cooler?
From:Marshall
Date:Fri, 12 Jul 2002 22:11:24 -0500

Well, I think you heart is in the right place, but your thermodynamics
isn't. ;>)

What is more realistic is the following:

Thermelectric moves 3 joules for every 100 you put in;
Compression with a really good working fluid - 80 joules for every 100 you
put in.

If you could move more heat energy than you put in - you'd be violating
fundamental physical laws.

You'd have a generator that could run itself with a surplus - for example.
Not possible.

Look up Carnot's Laws or the Carnot heat engine on Google, if you don't
believe me. ;>)

Marshall Ruskin
84 Westy
----- Original Message -----
From: "wb6otg" <wb6otg@INTREX.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, June 12, 2002 09:02 PM
Subject: Re: anyone bought a Coleman thermoelectric cooler?

> > There is no magic in how they work. They use a lot of power, just like a
> > regular refrigerator, only they are exposed to a lot more heat. Check
the
> > box for the wattage or the amps and I think you will see what I mean.
>
> Actually a regular refrigerator is MUCH more efficient!  A compressor
driven refrigerator moves more heat than what you put in (as electrical
energy).  The thermoelectric coolers move LESS heat than the energy you put
in.
>
> Bill

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