I need to buy a chiller as I would like to actually brew a batch of beer rather than just read about it and an ice bath only isn't going to be very efficient.
Originally I figured I'd just get a 25' 1/2 IC but further reading suggests it won't be big enough to quickly cool down a 5 gallon batch of wort, much less a 10 gallon bath, nor will it be very water effective.
My 'requirements' are in order Effectiveness > Water Usage > Ease of Cleaning > Cost.
On most online vendors I've seen 50' 1/2" IC are running abour $120 (same for my LHBS) and Therminator Plate chillers are $200. I then saw a link to a Jamil whirlpool IC and while I was intrigued the idea of adding a $150 March pump didn't thrill me.
I think I may be lost in information overload land and am looking for some real world advice based upon my above criteria.
Originally I figured I'd just get a 25' 1/2 IC but further reading suggests it won't be big enough to quickly cool down a 5 gallon batch of wort, much less a 10 gallon bath, nor will it be very water effective.
My 'requirements' are in order Effectiveness > Water Usage > Ease of Cleaning > Cost.
On most online vendors I've seen 50' 1/2" IC are running abour $120 (same for my LHBS) and Therminator Plate chillers are $200. I then saw a link to a Jamil whirlpool IC and while I was intrigued the idea of adding a $150 March pump didn't thrill me.
I think I may be lost in information overload land and am looking for some real world advice based upon my above criteria.