176 THE BANANA 



the desired range of from 60 to 80 F. The ripening 

 process, which requires 48 hours, is assisted by main- 

 taining a temperature of from 75 to 80 F. for that period, 

 and for storing the fruit after it has ripened the temperature 

 should be 60 to 70 F. The three-step switch on the 

 radiator enables this regulation to be made conveniently. 

 During ripening, the bananas give off a good deal of steam 

 and moisture, and the chemical processes that occur in 

 ripening also produce an appreciable quantity of heat. 

 The heater is operated on the middle step continuously 

 except during the very warm summer months, when the 

 ripening process does not require artificial heat. During 

 an average month the heater consumes 495 kw.-hours at 

 a cost of nearly $24.75 (nearly 5). 



