Marsdude
Well-Known Member
I am still new at brewing, just finished my fourth batch (extract). I want to be able to do some all grain batches. After searching the forums I have a few questions.
Boil pot: can I use an 8 gal. pot or will I need a 10 gal? If I am correct I will need to start with appx. 6.5 gal. at the beginning of the boil to have 5 gal. when finished - correct?
Mash Tun: Since I have a rectangular cooler I have decided to use that. I also have enough copper pipe and fittings in the shop to do the manifold. I do have some questions about that. I will not solder the fittings so I can take them apart for cleaning. I will slot the pipe with a dremel - is it best for the slots to be on the top, side, or the bottom? Will I have a problem with a stuck mash with this setup.
Software: Do I need something like BeerSmith or can I just follow a recipe in the beginning?
Efficiency: I keep reading posts about the "efficiency" of the process. How is that measured? Do I even care for my first couple of brews?
Thanks for any help....
Boil pot: can I use an 8 gal. pot or will I need a 10 gal? If I am correct I will need to start with appx. 6.5 gal. at the beginning of the boil to have 5 gal. when finished - correct?
Mash Tun: Since I have a rectangular cooler I have decided to use that. I also have enough copper pipe and fittings in the shop to do the manifold. I do have some questions about that. I will not solder the fittings so I can take them apart for cleaning. I will slot the pipe with a dremel - is it best for the slots to be on the top, side, or the bottom? Will I have a problem with a stuck mash with this setup.
Software: Do I need something like BeerSmith or can I just follow a recipe in the beginning?
Efficiency: I keep reading posts about the "efficiency" of the process. How is that measured? Do I even care for my first couple of brews?
Thanks for any help....