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I always just make sure to mix it in very, very, slowly, so I can get the DME mixed well as soon as it lands in the wort. I have used my SS spoon for stirring without problems, but I guess a whisk could make the task easier. If you have problems getting the DME out of the bag without clumping...

If they go in at different times (soap first, starsan second), it should work. If the go in at the same time, they will probably just neutralize each other and be ineffective.

I may be wrong, but I can't imagine that the extra water will make any difference other than 12 oz. more liquid in your fermenter.

Yea, Starsan should do the same thing. I think the key is just to have an acid.

After you soak the bottles in oxiclean, give them a brief bath (a minute or two will do) in a vinegar/water solution. I fill my sink up about 2/3 with lukewarm water and add 3 capfulls (soda sized caps) of distilled white wine vinegar. After a minute or two, take the bottles out of the bath...

There probably is a free tool, but I use BeerSmith, so I can't give you any tips. Sorry!

I say do it. I like using Pilsner DME and then using specialty grains for color, flavor and aroma. If you are trying to lighten your beer, you can also try doing a late extract addition. Just adjust your hops accordingly, otherwise your beer may end up much more bitter than you anticipated.

I use a starsan solution for the airlock and blow-off. No problems to report here.

I recently needed a blow-off for a dry stout. A couple people have mentioned using foam control drops in the primary to eliminate the need for a blow-off. I have yet to try this, but will for my next batch, as it has a couple of advantages. First, you get to keep everything in your fermenter...

Thanks for all the feedback - it's much appreciated. Any other feedback or advice is welcome before next Saturday the 28th, which is when I plan on brewing this beer. I will let you know how it goes and how it tastes after 6 weeks or so. :mug:

If you bought an extract kit, those should just be specialty grains for steeping, but someone else might want to chime in. I generally steep for 30 minutes at 155-160F. I bring the water to about 145, then turn the temperature down (leaving the kettle on the element) and let the water get up...

So would you put in the Hallertau at 15 minutes or so?

I'm going to brew a Kölsch and would like some feedback on the recipe that I've put together. If I've left any crucial information out, please let me know and I'll add it. Batch Size: 5 gal. Boil Volume: 2.43 gal. 2 lbs. Pilsen Light DME (Boil for 60 mins) 3 lbs. Pilsen Light DME (Boil for 5...

Another trick: I remove my kettle from the burner/element when I add the extract. I don't put the kettle back on until I've mixed everything in well. Once the kettle is back on the element, I keep stirring the wort until the boil begins.

Funny to see this because I just had my first major blow off last week. My tubing didn't fit over the peg in the middle of the airlock, so I had to take the whole airlock out and stick the tube into the grommet. Ended up being a perfect fit and all's been well since.

Are you sure? Aren't things less viscous when they are warmer?

I have had great results with CaraPils. Usually around 3/4 of a pound does the trick in lighter beer. My darker beers have had other specialty grains that have contributed to head retention. The point about making certain that you don't have soap residue on your glasses is also a good...

I too have drinkable city water (no chlorine or chloramine taste). I just pour in the appropriate amount without treating it or boiling it. Ther ehave been no ill effects to report.

Yea, my store has their own kits. They typically include more specialty grains and have more precise instructions. And, as you said, it's a nice way to support the local store. I think one thing to watch out for on the Brewer's Best instructions (or most kit instructions, for that matter)...

I find kits (like Brewer's Best) to be a great way to start off. All the ingredients are there, the instructions are for the most part adequate, and the end result is pretty darned good. I take notes about what I like and dislike from the final product of each kit and use that as a starting...