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Show Hot-bed Outside Window Warmed by Basement Heat WHERE ; ii MVVsHSssslA WITH CLASS m joins w MTJwUi"T1E : : j SIDES MAY ftVV,.,-.''',,' I EARTH MAY I A IttC s' - . BE BANKED A UVJis555. AROUND THE XnVT i 1 FRAME TO XW" USE LUMBER KEEP OUT F rtLm 2'ICK I THE COLD 1 LEVEL Working Drawing for Hot-bed Outside Basement Window. Most economical of hot-beds, and perhaps the most convenient, is possible pos-sible for any home that has a basement base-ment window facing south. In front of this a miniature greenhouse can be constructed, where plants can be given an early start in the spring, with plenty of sunlight, plus warmth from the basement, which usually has plenty to spare. Uses for such a hot-bed can be found the year around; and the cost of construction is small,' especially if you build it yourself from the complete com-plete working drawing which accompanies ac-companies this discussion. Dimensions Dimen-sions in the drawing provide for a frame covered with two standard 3x6 sash; but these can easily be changed to fit any size sash you prefer pre-fer to use. Start by making an excavation in front of the window about a foot deep. Its area must be figured carefully, care-fully, so that it will hold a frame fitted to your sash. As in the case of other hot-beds, a plastic substitute substi-tute for glass may be used if pre ferred. Build a frame to fit in the excavation. exca-vation. The sides must slant sharply sharp-ly from a point above the window, almost to the ground. Fit the sash on this frame, using hinges at the top so the sash may easily be raised for ventilation. Earth may be banked around the frame to keep out the cold; and the sides should be as tight as possible to keep out the wind. The frame should be caulked where it joins the foundation founda-tion to prevent drafts. Heat is supplied to this bed by opening the basement window. The window is left open at night, and may often be closed during the day, when the sun is shining. Hotbeds of this type have been tried and tested, and although they do not maintain temperatures as high as other kinds the heat will be more even, and the ventilation much better. The main things to watch are temperature and drafts. Ventilation is necessary on warm days, and for very short periods on cooler days. |