have two pumps - why or why not should i build a single tier?

[BrewingChemist]

currently have a two tier propane stand (hlt on high portion) for 3 keggles. Currently no automation but am considering adding in a little recirculation for the mashtun (have a pilot light and honewell valve adapter). I just got a second pump and am wondering what the advantages of going single tier would be.

I know I want to build a new stand (the one I have now is super heavy, so I want to use a lighter gauge steel). Just not sure if I should keep it 2 tier or go single tier and what everyone's advice it.

Thanks!!

 

[jekeane]

2 tier vs 1 tier I think the only real benefit is everything is on 1 tier and closer to a comfortable workspace.

1 pump vs 2 pumps is really just convenience in that you have less hose swapping to do. If you are planning on doing a HERMS or RIMS type recirculation then the convenience factor probably become much more pronounced.

 

[sandyeggoxj]

I love single tier. I can look into all the vessel with ease. I think it is easier to be on the same plane as what I am brewing.

 

[eric19312]

Ive got 2 pumps on 2 tier. Needed the second pump for double batch brew days. One pump is for my MLT (recirculating with automated honeywell valve controlled burner) and the second is used for whirlpooling my brew kettle during chilling and hop stand.

 

[303Dan]

I love single tier. I can look into all the vessel with ease. I think it is easier to be on the same plane as what I am brewing.

Agreed. I like having everything at a lower level. I built my stand pretty low so the tops of all my kettles are about 4 ft off the ground. Love it.

 

[Cardog]

Unless you need a smaller footprint of a 2 tier, I would go single. Aside from the expense of a 2nd pump that's the only advantage I see. Also, if (or when) you go automation you will definitely need a 2nd pump anyways for proper temperature control.

 

[Jaybird]

I LOVE the way my set up is. Simple to use really and I can do back to back batches with 1 pump. I use gravity from HLT (Why ever would you need to look inside a HLT?) Gravity to the grant from MLT and BK and pump from there, anywhere you need.

Just some thoughts for you to ponder.

I will GLADLY post up a picture as soon as I figure out WHY I can't post a picture.


For now this is all I can do.

https://www.facebook.com/NorCalBrew...332186714948/1139460236102133/?type=3&theater

I think

Cheers
Jay

 

[day_trippr]

Allow me to assist.

Is this yours, too?

Cheers!

 

[Jaybird]

Allow me to assist.

Is this yours, too?

Cheers!

Man you are the BEST!

Yes first picture is of my home brew set up.



Nope second picture is of Wildcard Brewing Co. here in Redding. We did a Homebrew VS Commercial brew, brew off with Wildcard last year. We brewed the exact recipe we both agreed on, scaled it from their 15 BBL to our 10 gallon used the exact same ingredients fermented them as we normally would, then served them side by side at the tap house there at the brewery. IT WAS AWESOME! This was for BEER WEEK last year. Yes our town actually has an entire WEEK dedicated to CRAFT BEER!

Cheers
Jay

 

[BrewingChemist]

this is what I have currently - the angle iron is 1/4" thick so it is super heavy. I currently use gravity to drain the hlt to the mt.

Considering recirculating during Mash with one pump - have a herms coil that I need to install in my hlt if I do so.

 

[Drumminguy81]

Personally I started with a single tier with one pump. I got tired of swapping lines and bought another pump. Then got more tired of swapping lines and bought another pump. I currently run 3 pumps on my single tier. I love it. Life is easy on brew days. Never have to disconnect lines just open valves and turn on pumps. Having said that I have a system that I basically build to sell that is a 2 tier with 1 pump and I brewed on it and really enjoyed the simplicity of it. But apples to apples my single tier is a 1 bbl and the 2 tier is a little keggle system..