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huge1s · 09-09-2011, 01:59 PM

I use the batch sparge method and had a question regarding the sparge(s). When you add your sparge water, do you let it sit? or varlouf and drain right away? I have been letting it sit for 10-15 minutes for each sparge. I usually have to divide my sparge water in two because my mash tun is slightly too small to handle a single sparge. Is there any ill effects from letting it sit before draining? Is there an efficiency hit if I drain right away?

**Bobby_M** · 09-09-2011, 02:07 PM

Most report no change in efficiency at all if you drain right away. I've always stirred it in rather aggressively for a full 3 minute, vorlauf and drain right away. I mean, it's not a race, but there's very little to be gained from letting it sit unless your crush is extremely coarse and it takes a little more time to diffuse and equalize.

**WildGingerBrewing** · 09-09-2011, 02:09 PM

I have always done two sparges and let them sit for about 10 min. I don't know it helps, but my efficiency is great, so I know it doesn't hurt.

waldoar15 · 09-09-2011, 02:09 PM

You're going to get all kinds of answers on this. I stir mine and let it sit a bit just so things will settle out. Works a little better on my system. You'll just have to experiment a bit and see what works best for you.

**Homercidal** · 09-09-2011, 02:10 PM

I usually let it sit for about 5-10 to let the grain settle. I don't know if it's necessary. I started this when I had to heat both sparge water separately. The 10 minutes gave the second sparge water time to heat up. Once you get a good vorlauf going, letting the grain settle might be an unnecessary step.

stevo155 · 09-09-2011, 02:14 PM

I usually let it sit unless I don't

Basically it all depends on how I feel that day.

shaggybudd · 09-09-2011, 02:18 PM

Well the purpose of sparging is to rinse the grains of the sugar; so in my mind it would be better to try and keep a flow going as much as possible to knock the sugars off of the grains. The more rinsing power without disturbing the grain bed would be the best IMO.

huge1s · 09-09-2011, 03:48 PM

I will experiment a little on my next batch. I haven't heard anything in regards to negative effects of letting it sit. I thought that perhaps the high temp of the sparge water might cause some ill effects if left sitting.

**Bobby_M** · 09-09-2011, 05:05 PM

There's no harm except for wasted time.

Denny · 09-09-2011, 06:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bobby_M

There's no harm except for wasted time.

THIS^^^^. I've done extensive testing on this and there's nothing gained by letting it sit.