JDL
Well-Known Member
I have searched all over the forums and read a tons and am thinking of building a heat stick for my small brew system.
I currently make 2.5 gallon batches and start boiling with 3.25 gallons normally. I want to create a heat stick but have some very basic questions.
1) What watt heating element can I use with not having to do anything at all to my service in my apartment? I rent a side of a duplex and cannot do anything to the wiring.
2) What watt would be good to bring 3.25 gallons to a boil? (I know I will grow it eventually to 5+ gallons but then I will probably boil with propane and use the stick to assist and heat sparge and strike water)
3) Can I hook a dimmer switch up to it to effect how much electricity runs to it and how much heat it produces?
4) What other heat regulating is available with a heat stick?
What is any danger along with this? This would be my first electrical DIY setup so a little nervous about it.
If I use a GCFI outlet (plan on using one of the portable ones) does that take care of any electrocution fear? Like if the sealing fails after a little bit and water gets into it?
Thanks for all your help in advance!
Jeff
I currently make 2.5 gallon batches and start boiling with 3.25 gallons normally. I want to create a heat stick but have some very basic questions.
1) What watt heating element can I use with not having to do anything at all to my service in my apartment? I rent a side of a duplex and cannot do anything to the wiring.
2) What watt would be good to bring 3.25 gallons to a boil? (I know I will grow it eventually to 5+ gallons but then I will probably boil with propane and use the stick to assist and heat sparge and strike water)
3) Can I hook a dimmer switch up to it to effect how much electricity runs to it and how much heat it produces?
4) What other heat regulating is available with a heat stick?
What is any danger along with this? This would be my first electrical DIY setup so a little nervous about it.
If I use a GCFI outlet (plan on using one of the portable ones) does that take care of any electrocution fear? Like if the sealing fails after a little bit and water gets into it?
Thanks for all your help in advance!
Jeff