I used a grain bag on my first brew and thought it was a pain in the #ss. Now I steep the grains without a bag in a pot then pour it through a fine strainer into the brew pot. Then rinse with 170 degree water. I have 6 brews under my belt. I haven't noticed any negative tastes, yet.
To answer your question, Yes.
A counter flow wort chiller has hot wort flowing in one direction through a center 3/8" copper pipe while cold water flows in the oposit direction around the outside of the copper pipe which is contained by a garden hose. Look in the DIY section for better...
I have been reading over old threads and haven't found the answer I'm looking for. So far i have done two ten gallon brews. Both have been extract California IPA. Purchased them as kits from the local brew store.
Here is my question. Once the cooking is done and it time to cool it down what...
I really like this gauge setup.
http://www.austinhomebrew.com/product_info.php?cPath=178_40_271_275_272&products_id=1151
Wish I would have seen this before I bought mine. This one is nice because no tools are needed to adjust the pressure. If you think you would like to have two beers...
Regarding the use of garden hoses to fill brew pots. You could be lead poisoning yourself. The hose manufacturers use lead to help make the PVC Flexible. They even put warning labels on them . If you must use a hose buy one that is rated for drinking. R/v and camper hoses are typically lead free...
I found out the hard way that stainless steel requires an anti-seize grease. When working with food you need to find a food grade version of anti-seize. I didn't have any so I used the next best thing "Crisco" shortening. Not sure about its ability to keep the stainless steel from galling, but...