How hot can homemade solar cookers get?

It's difficult to give a definitive temperature for homemade solar cookers because the temperature they can reach depends on many factors, including:

* Design: The shape, size, and materials used in the cooker affect its efficiency.

* Location: The intensity of sunlight varies depending on location, time of day, and season.

* Weather: Cloudy days significantly reduce the heat generated.

* Cooking pot: Darker, heavier pots absorb more heat.

General ranges:

* Simple box cookers: These can reach temperatures around 200-250°F (93-121°C), which is sufficient for slow cooking, baking, and drying.

* Parabolic reflectors: These concentrate sunlight more effectively and can reach temperatures of 300-400°F (149-204°C), allowing for faster cooking and even frying.

* Advanced designs: More sophisticated designs, like solar ovens with evacuated tubes, can achieve temperatures exceeding 400°F (204°C) and even approach boiling point.

Important considerations:

* Safety: Never leave a solar cooker unattended while in use, as the concentrated sunlight can pose a fire hazard.

* Experimentation: The best way to determine the maximum temperature achievable with your specific design is through experimentation. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature inside the cooker under different conditions.

Remember: While homemade solar cookers can reach high temperatures, they often take longer to cook food than conventional ovens. However, they offer a sustainable and cost-effective way to cook using the power of the sun.