Thermometers are a nice add on to have on your BK, but not necessary. I have one installed on my keggle and it's nice to have while i'm cooling down my wort with my immersion chiller. other than that, if you ever plan on using your BK as a HLT down the road, it comes in handy.
I have an Oktoberfest fermenting in the low 50's right now. After it has finished and i've done my necessary d-rest, i was going to transfer it into a keg and lager it in my keezer. My question is, do i need to hook co2 or a blow off up to it, or can i just seal it up in the keg and lager...
I live in West Houston and know all to well the temps coming out of our house faucets. I built this 50' 3/8" copper chiller and just used it on my last batch. I use straight tap water to get down to about 90* and then hook up my pre-chiller in an ice bath. It took me about 8 minutes to hit...
Good to have ya back Gus! I myself brew up to 3 times a month with a full time job and 5 year old. It is work, but i guess we chalk it up to a labor of love. Sorry about the hops, i know all to well what "Texas Heat" can do (west houston myself).
Karbach brewing company looks like it's only about 6 mi. from where you're staying....they make really good beer!
Saint Arnold Brewery is Texas' oldest craft brewery and they are about 10mi. from your hotel.
Hope that helps and enjoy your stay!