Another dumb question (re: hydrometer)

[JimFowler]

My hydrometer came inside a clear plastic tube with end caps. Do I put the sample in this tube to take a reading or is it supposed to be in a different type of container?

 

[HVBrewtality]

no, that tube is just for storing the hydrometer.

you want to use a graduated cylinder

 

[Ragutis]

That tube should work fine if it holds liquid. Just cool the sample first. I put wort in a measuring cup until it's cool and then take the gravity reading.

 

[weirdboy]

I have been using that tube since I started brewing. I figure, why buy a graduated cylinder if I already have something that will do the job?

 

[maida7]

The plastic tube that comes with the hydrometer works great for holding the sample and taking a reading. Just don't put anything super hot in it as it will melt the plastic.

 

[JimFowler]

I'm glad to hear that since I don't have a graduated cylinder. It does hold water - I checked it earlier.

 

[binaryc0de]

you can use a wine thief like this one
http://www.highgravitybrew.com/productcart/pc/Plastic-Wine-Thief-126p513.htm

or you can pull a sample put it in a testing tube like this one.

http://www.northernbrewer.com/brewing/economy-test-jar.html

 

[JimFowler]

Thanks for the help - I may invest in one. I've got a batch in now that I need to check, so I'll go with what I've got for the moment and order one.

Thanks again.

 

[maida7]

I use a ball baster to get the sample from the fermenter. Then put the sample in the plastic hydrometer tube to take the reading.

 

[weirdboy]

I never baste my balls, but I do use a turkey baster.

 

[GilaMinumBeer]

you want to use a graduated cylinder

One with a GED works fine too.

 

[JimFowler]

maida7, I see your location is Asheville. I can't wait to get back up there. Visited Wedge last fall (along with a couple of others) and need to get back.

I appreciate your help on this.

 

[HVBrewtality]

One with a GED works fine too.

 

[maida7]

I never baste my balls

Try it, You'll like it! :fro:

 

[maida7]

maida7, I see your location is Asheville. I can't wait to get back up there. Visited Wedge last fall (along with a couple of others) and need to get back.

I appreciate your help on this.

The Wedge is great! I think we've had 2 more breweries open since your last visit. There are now so many brewpubs in Asheville, it's crazy. I have no idea how they all stay in business. Asheville is a beer mecca

 

[JimFowler]

I saw a couple of new ones online - Craggie or something like that, and Lexington Avenue.

Had a great time at Jack of the Wood and Thirsty Monk, but Wedge was my favorite of that trip ....just didn't have time to get around to all the places I wanted to go.