looking to expand

**chris24300** · 11-29-2011, 10:37 PM

So I'm still very very new (working on 7 days experience here) but while my first batch is fermenting away I decided to scout some recruits

I was going to get

two buckets for primary
2 glass carboys (probably the 6.5 gal for 5 gal batches)
lots of sanitizer

this might be a good time to look at a temp controlled fridge to stabilize fermenting temps, any suggestions?

I'm looking to get at least two batches going.
Anything else recommended?

**H-ost** · 11-29-2011, 10:39 PM

Don't forget lots of cleaner like PBW

**Yooper** · 11-29-2011, 10:40 PM

I'd probably skip the glass carboys. I have dozens, but hardly ever use them except for wine. I have about 5-6 "ale pails" buckets, lids, and extra airlocks.

**RM-MN** · 11-29-2011, 11:36 PM

I agree with Yooper. You can get 2 pails for the price of one carboy and they stack nicely when you aren't using them. Used somewhat carefully they will last for years. I have 3 buckets and one carboy and guess what is empty.

Conan · 11-29-2011, 11:47 PM

As for a ferm chamber, check out some of the DIY forum's info. There's the Son of Fermentation chamber that's supposed to be good and cheap- even if it's a bit crude. Otherwise, how big of a space do you have? A chest freezer would be nice, along with some kegs. Or two freezers- one for serving, one for fermenting. Kyle

**chris24300** · 11-30-2011, 12:24 AM

Well I have a kegerator and am looking at buying a multi tap tower for it, I can easily fit a few cornys no problem.

I'm more concerned with keeping the temp around 60-70s. I'm lagering now so the kegerator is perfect but once it gets warmer I think my temps will fluctuate too much in NE..

I didn't realize this site had a DIY section, the fermenting chest looks like it would solve my worries!

**chris24300** · 11-30-2011, 12:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yooper

I'd probably skip the glass carboys. I have dozens, but hardly ever use them except for wine. I have about 5-6 "ale pails" buckets, lids, and extra airlocks.

Quote:

Originally Posted by RM-MN

I agree with Yooper. You can get 2 pails for the price of one carboy and they stack nicely when you aren't using them. Used somewhat carefully they will last for years. I have 3 buckets and one carboy and guess what is empty.

Really? I could have sworn I just read a thread on here that talked about the buckets as secondaries had higher chance of infection/contamination. If I can get buckets then I can also get a high gravity (12% +) going for next Thanksgiving and Christmas

**Yooper** · 11-30-2011, 12:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chris24300

Really? I could have sworn I just read a thread on here that talked about the buckets as secondaries had higher chance of infection/contamination. If I can get buckets then I can also get a high gravity (12% +) going for next Thanksgiving and Christmas

Oh, well, I rarely (as in almost never) use secondaries and when I do, I use a keg unless I'm oaking or adding fruit (again almost never).

If you'll be using a clearing/aging vessel, you're correct in that you don't want to do it in a bucket with such a wide headspace. But if you're buying carboys for that purpose, you'll need 5 gallon carboys, not the larger ones.

Surly · 11-30-2011, 12:58 AM

You are getting some very, very good advice here. I would only add that as you plan your purchases you plan on not purchasing any type of equipment twice.

Take a deep breath and ask yourself where do you want to go with this hobby. Then, begin designing your equipment needs based on maybe volume per brew. If you want to brew ten gallon batches, then do not buy small mash tuns and boil kettles.

I do know you are just starting out and no doubt you will need some base equipment, but keep the future close at hand.

Good Luck

Conan · 11-30-2011, 12:59 AM

What diameter is your tower? I have a 3" which has 2 taps on it now and I'll be installing a third very shortly. It came with one mounted. Pretty easy job, just drill a hole and get a CO2 splitter.

Not know there's a DIY section???? Jeeze.

Happy brewing,
Kyle

edit: Surly hit it on the head- if you think you'll be going bigger or AG or whatever, might as well prepare for it.