I would like to customize a standard under-counter refrigerator (that does not have a freezer) to serve a different purpose. I'm looking to maintain a consistent temperature between 68-80 degrees. Assume I have a UL listed digital thermostat for that temperature range.

Would this be done simply by disconnecting the existing thermostat and connecting the new Tstat?

And would I want a new temp sensor to work with the new Tstat?

Is this a task that the average person could do easily (a few hours or less)?

Thanks

A lot depends on what unit you purchase.
Probably best to go with a mechanical thermostat.
Some of these are adjustable to some extent so you may be able to get into the range you want.
If not you will have to hunt around and find a thermostat for that temperature range. May not be easy

Also the ambient temperature comes into play.
If it is lower than your set temp then the unit will go to ambient temperature.

One alternative would be to use an electric baseboard wall thermostat.
Have it control a 120 volt relay then use the Normally Closed contacts on the relay to run your compressor. I suggest this type because you will not have to mess around with a transformer etc. which is required with low amperage thermostats.
Also you must make sure the relay contacts will take the amps that the compressor requires, if it needs 10 get contacts that will handle at least 20.

Here is a better explanation from Techumseh Compressor
http://www.hvacrinfo.com/Tecums...ulletins/Application.pdf :)