Just wondering about container size. I want to try my first batch but I want to keep it a small batch, but I wouldn't mind going ahead and getting a 5 gallon bucket for future larger batches. So, can I do an initial fermentation of a 2.5 to 3 gallon batch in a 5 gallon bucket? If not, would there be an issue pitching the yeast in the 5 gallon bucket then transferring in to several one gallon glass jugs that I already have? Should I just suck it up and make a 5 gallon batch...lol...?
Container size (initial fermentation)
- Thread starter Nubster
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Thanks. The buckets I saw at the shop were labeled as 5 gallon but there was easily another gallon or more above the 5 gallon marking on the side...will this work or should I get an actual marked 6 or 6.5 gallon bucket?
jwalk4
Well-Known Member
+1.
Head space doesn't (really) matter in the primary fermenter because CO2 is heavier than O2, it will push O2 out, so oxidation wouldn't be a factor. Only when, or if, you rack to secondaries will the head space matter because you are introducing the beer to more O2.
you're fine to primary ferment in larger bucket. I've been doing 3 gallon batches in my 5 gallon fermenters recently. Size does make more difference if you choose to do a secondary fermentation (where oxidation of your fermented beer can come into play). You'd be fine with the bucket marked to 5 gallons, but if you find one marked to 6 or 6.5 that's better. Remember when you ferment, you'll lose some volume to trub loss, so to end with 5 gallons of beer, you want your volume at the end of your boil (and into your fermenter) to be slightly higher, around 5.25gallons or so, which may make the "5gallon marked bucket" kinda tight.
