Airlock question

[Gary2287]

Hi all,

my plastic airlock got too hot at some point and is not totally straight. So it doesn’t fit taught against the rubber stopper. My beer is happily fermenting but the bubbles aren’t going up to the airlock. I am just mildly worried about contamination. Should i switch to a blowoff tube to ensure nothing sneaks in?

 

[Jtvann]

I would recommend a blow of tube for all fermentations. They serve the same purpose as a big airlock and help if you ever do have a blow off to avoid a big mess.

You can just push your current airlock in more to seal it off as well. Contamination risk is relatively low.

Your choice

 

[IslandLizard]

You could probably seal up that gap with some sanitized plastic wrap around the stem, which could be an airlock by itself.
It's best not to stick the airlock stem too deep into the fermenter. More chance for blow off into the airlock, or plugging it up.
No more than 1/4" below the stopper/lid, if that much.

BTW, how did you get it too hot? We like drama here.

 

[day_trippr]

Gotta see a pic of this warped lock - that can't hold a seal to a stopper ☢

Cheers! (no - that 'lock is not radioactive, but has anyone noticed there are a bazillion HBT emoticons longing to be used at least once in their lives? )