Solar Ovens

[California_Dreaming]

I have read about solar ovens and I know how they work. Here in California we are blessed with an abundance of sunshine (or in July-Sept, one could say cursed, when the temp reaches 110 degrees and the humidity is right up there also)

Has anyone had first hand experience using them? I am looking for recommendations on size, brands, features, costs, etc.

Home made v. store bought? I always think food tastes better when made with something free, but what about efficiency of home made ones on days that are not in the summer?

[BenRaines]

How to Make and Use the Solar Funnel Cooker

Ben Raines

[pitcher]

Get the book Emergency Preparedness The Right Way by Howard Godfrey. It is on Amazon. It tells you how to build inexpensive solar ovens, and other easy methods of cooking. In addition it covers a lot on water and food storage.

[California_Dreaming]

Thanks on the book recommendation. I do have a copy and have read it cover to cover. I am starting to read it a second time; and then a third time. I think that it has some of the best recommendations I have read.

One question I have regarding a home made unit. I have thought of the styrofoam insulation panels as insulation (either inside or out). Most of the home made units can reach a temp of 350 degrees and some of the units with solar reflectors claim to reach 400degrees.

With that temp, can the foam insulation and or a wooden frame withstand the heat?

I am hoping to build a test unit soon. I think that the quality and taste of the food cooked in a solar oven is inversely portionate to the cost of the oven. (Figure that one out)

[BenRaines]

I would say yes they will be fine. Nice that they are built for outside use. Just in case.

Remember that the purpose of the foil is to reflect the heat. Aluminum foil retains no heat.

Ben Raines