This setup is getting kinda old now. I want to weld up an all stainless single level that is fully automated. I have too many hobbies for this change to happen at any reasonable amount of time.
(don't know why this was flipped on it's side!)
I love my Barley Crusher. Get the one with the 14# hopper, especially if you brew on your own a lot. I have the 7# hopper and the 14# would make milling go by a little quicker.
When sparging I have always read not to go above 170 degrees to prevent pulling unwanted flavors from husk material into the wort. I have always sparged at 170 and often noticed a slight astringency taste to beers I make especially with the lighter ones. I always monitor PH so that should not...