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**TheJadedDog** · 09-19-2006, 01:00 AM

So I just finished brewing batch #2 (pumpkin ale) and the OG was 1.055 so I attached a blow-off just to be safe even though my primary fermentor is a 6.5 gal. bucket. I'm just curious, how will I know when there is activity since there is no airlock to bubble? and also, when will it be okay to remove the blow-off and attach the airlock since the blow-off is taking up needed space in my closet?

Recipe was:
6lbs amber malt extract (3.3 lbs LME, remainder DME)
1/2 lb Wheat Malt
1/2 lb Munich Malt

1oz Perle for 60 min
1oz Hallertau for 5 min

steeped gains for 15 min at 160deg.

added 1 lb pumpkin to 1/2 gal water and heated to 160deg for 7 min and put in fermentor before adding wort and topping off with spring water.

Orpheus · 09-19-2006, 01:09 AM

Dog,

You'll know when fermentation begins because the end of the blow off tube that isn't in the top of your carboy should be submersed in a vessel containing water. Use a pot, pan, tin, margarine container, etc. Fill it with enough water that the end of the tube is fully underwater. When bubbles start bubbling out, you've got some fermentation going on.

**TheJadedDog** · 09-19-2006, 01:21 AM

I also meant to ask about getting hop pellets in the fermentor as I was unable to strain it out, any recommendations on a strainer to purchase for the future? Ditto hot and cold breaks although I kept some of that out.

Orpheus · 09-19-2006, 01:22 AM

I just picked up a big ass kitchen strainer from Target and a big ass funnel from my LHBS. They work like together like gangbusters!

**TheJadedDog** · 09-19-2006, 01:38 AM

Are the strainer openings small enough to stop hop pellets?

Orpheus · 09-19-2006, 01:43 AM

Yes,

The strainer is fine enough to get the hop pellets out of the brew.