Forgive me all for this rather shameless re-post, but I was worried it got lost in the above...
Plus, I ordered a chiller.
Again- thanks to all who have contributed here already. I did read ALL of the posts in this thread (it took about a week over some time).
Took a few days, but i just finished this thread. Many thanks to all that have provided input so far.
I ordered an AF 10.5 on the last day of 10% sale. I opted for the pump, too.
It has not shipped yet, but no worries. I want to get prepped in the mean time.
I have a couple of questions for you all... I think these have not be answered in the above, or they are extensions based on what I've read over the last 1,463 posts.
So- forgive me if these have been answered. Many thanks to
@Noob_Brewer , especially post 1462 above (and others) for some great points.
#1: Hop Spider/Basket. I think it is best to plan on containing hop material if I can. Is there a recommended length for the hop spider (I am using this in a generic term). I plan on hop-stands, so I think it should fit inside the chiller, correct? How deep of length can I go? Is there an item where a lot of items will do basically the same thing?
#2: Hose Connects. I am sure I need & want these for ease of use. I have not used before- what is difference between 'camlock' and 'quick disconnect'? Is there an easy spot to get a crash course on these? What size should I need for the AF hoses?
#3: Chiller. I have not used an immersion chiller before. I am not opposed to the C.U.S.S. price (that all-in-one tricool looks sexy) but any other brands/options out there? I plan on using the included chiller for a bit first. Follow-up: What are the issues with the hoses/tubing? Should I order a different type hose/tubing? Will the connects mentioned above in #2 help this?
*Update- I decided to go ahead and order the CuS.S. chiller. It was similar to the Hyrda, and about $30 cheaper after shipping.
#4: Power. I decided on the AF due in large part to the flexibility of 120/240. I do not want to cut the cord- I like the idea of the adapter plug shown above. However- my only 240 plug is my dryer plug- it is a 4-prong plug (see picture. bad quality, sorry). What are my options for this? I assume I need a 4-prong plug... but I am only used to the 3-prong 120. I will purchase a 220 GFCI of course. 20 Amp is enough, yes?
#5: Whirlpool arm: I like the BrewHardware Spincycle Overboard- when it comes in stock, I will grab it (and get the proper connect for it, too). BUT- what size is best for the 10.5 AF? the 12" or the 18"? I assume I can get the 18" and just have it stick up higher, right?
Many thanks again to all of you who have posted on here. As I use my AF 10.5 I will be happy to share results and tips here.