So i'm almost ready to do my first all grain...got my MLT, 10 gallon pot, burner, etc. Picked up some PH test strips to check my water, and Brewsmith has a Chicago water profile.
My test came out to be about 8.2, which sounds about right...very hard water.
Now, i know that the natural acids in certain malts will reduce the PH of the mash on their own, but i'm curious about Five Star's 5.2. I'm thinking of picking some up and stabalizing the mash & sparge water anyway just to be on the safe side.
Thoughts?
Edit: For the record, it is indeed municipal city tap water i tested, as i live in the city, though on the very north side.
My test came out to be about 8.2, which sounds about right...very hard water.
Now, i know that the natural acids in certain malts will reduce the PH of the mash on their own, but i'm curious about Five Star's 5.2. I'm thinking of picking some up and stabalizing the mash & sparge water anyway just to be on the safe side.
Thoughts?
Edit: For the record, it is indeed municipal city tap water i tested, as i live in the city, though on the very north side.