Introduction: 5 Gallon Bucket AC

A lot of people have at least one 5 gallon bucket just laying around. It can be a Home Depot/Lows bucket or (in my case) a paint Bucket. I noticed a paint bucket just sitting in my backyard; instead of throwing it away I thought of reusing it. I got the idea on a hot day; I just wished my fan would be cooler. So, using the fan and bucket, and some extra supplies, I made an AC for my room.

Supplies

1. 5 Gallon Bucket with lid

2. A small fan

3. PVC pipe 1.5" diameter, 4" length

4. Drill with 2" Hole Saw

5. Packing Foam

6. Floral Pruner (or anything to cut hard plastic)

7. Sharpie

Step 1: Step 1: Cutting the Bucket

Start by marking the shape of the hole. Use the 1.5" PVC pipe and trace a circle with your sharpie. These markings will act as a guide when you are ready to cut. Use eye protection and if your a kid have adult supervision. Once your ready use the 2" hole saw to cut three holes in your bucket.

Step 2: Step 2: Cut Lid for Fan

While your in cutting mode let's cut the lid. Use your fan as an outline and trace it with your sharpie. After measuring use the floral pruner (or anything to cut hard plastic) to cut out the outline. You may need to drill a hole first to start cutting. If you have a hand held saw I would recommend using that. Place your fan and check if it sits flush, so as little air can escape from the top..

Step 3: Step 3: Add Insulation

The packing foam acts as an insulator, keeping the inside as cold as possible. Start by tracing the bottom of the bucket on at least five layers of foam. After cutting out all five with scissors place them at the bottom of the bucket. If they don't squeeze in and stay add glue or tape to the edges. For the sides roll the packing foam around the outside of the bucket, making at least three layers. Tape the ends so it wont unroll. If it doesn't fit inside the bucket adjust and re-tape.

Step 4: Step 4: Cut and Place

To cut the packing foam use the hole in the bucket from earlier as a tracer. Cut about half a centimeter smaller than the existing hole. This is so that the PVC pipe squeezes in and you have an air tight seal. Insert the PVC pipe into the holes from the inside. Again, this is to keep an air tight seal.

Step 5: Final Step: Finishing Touches

Fist place a frozen gallon of water and any amount of 16 oz. water bottles inside as your coolant. You can add paper to the ends of the PVC pipes to show the intensity of the air. Plug in your fan and turn it on. Wait a few seconds and BAM! cool air.

Have Fun!

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