I was cleaning up some junk in the basement and noticed a few plastic barrels in a corner. One originally had dog treats, the other cheese puffs or something. Anyway, I checked and they're both PETE-1 (not 7) and look to be about 2 or 2.5 gallons. They should be perfect for fermenting small-batch or split-batch brews. They're not Utz brand, but they look kinda like this only with screw top lids. They're basically peanut butter jars on steroids. (PB jars are also PETE-1, by the way)
I'm just not sure how I want to vent CO2. I figure I could just screw the top on very loosely and it should work fine at a net zero cost. Or, I could drill a hole in each and get grommets like those used in brew bucket lids to install airlocks. The wide openings will make these perfect for fruit or dry hop additions. And since they're free, I don't care if they pick up the fruit smells or only last a couple of batches.
Since I was planning to do a small test beer with some Summit hops this week, the timing is perfect!
I'm just not sure how I want to vent CO2. I figure I could just screw the top on very loosely and it should work fine at a net zero cost. Or, I could drill a hole in each and get grommets like those used in brew bucket lids to install airlocks. The wide openings will make these perfect for fruit or dry hop additions. And since they're free, I don't care if they pick up the fruit smells or only last a couple of batches.
Since I was planning to do a small test beer with some Summit hops this week, the timing is perfect!