I've only done a few all-grain batches and my efficiency is still all over the place. I like to calculate efficiency when I start the boil so I know if I should add a little extract or maybe change IBUs if it looks like I'm gonna miss my target OG.
I've got a refractometer to measure the gravity but no good way to tell how much liquid I have. I usually use 2 pots (a second smaller one with last batch of batch sparge) so I can get a better boil. Right now I use my stirring spoon to see how many inches of liquid I have in each pot and then use an Excel sheet I set up to convert each to gallons and then take the weighted average of my gravity calculations, weighted by the two amounts of liquid, and then divide by 5 to get OG.
This system is insane, obviously. Any ideas? I'm thinking a plastic stick with markings on it would at least help, but I dunno.
I've got a refractometer to measure the gravity but no good way to tell how much liquid I have. I usually use 2 pots (a second smaller one with last batch of batch sparge) so I can get a better boil. Right now I use my stirring spoon to see how many inches of liquid I have in each pot and then use an Excel sheet I set up to convert each to gallons and then take the weighted average of my gravity calculations, weighted by the two amounts of liquid, and then divide by 5 to get OG.
This system is insane, obviously. Any ideas? I'm thinking a plastic stick with markings on it would at least help, but I dunno.