Another kettle size question

[Lazarusnz]

Hi all

I am brewing extract at present but looking to buy a bigger pot so I can do full boil and then start BIAB. Problem is here in NZ most equipment is quite expensive. I can get a decent quality SS 35 litre (9.25 gal) pot for $100 otherwise I'm looking at a lot more. Everything I have read indicates I need a 10 gal pot for a 5gallon batch. My question is will I get away with the slightly smaller size, or will I need to adjust my recipes down a bit to say 4.5 gal? I have no interest in making any 'big beers' so grain bills won't be anything too large mostly pale ales and maybe some lagers once I sort things out.

Thanks

 

[joebob296]

I think the smaller pot would work fine. Worst case scenario you can sparge to get to your desired volume. Shouldn't be to much of an issue.

 

[BaylessBrewer]

I use a 7.5gal kettle for 5gal batches in the 5% ABV range. It's a little tight but I get it done without issues.
Fermcap S is my friend

 

[MattyIce]

The 35 litre should do you just fine.

 

[dkevinb]

I brewed quite a few BIAB 5 gallon/19 liter batches in an 8 gallon/30 liter pot. I dunk sparged/mashed out in about 2 gallons/8 liters of water in a separate pot, then added that back to the bigger pot to make up my boil volume. It worked fine. A 35 liter pot should do you good, even if you do have to sparge a little.

 

[Lazarusnz]

Thanks everyone was hoping that would be the case!

 

[WI_Wino]

Check out aluminum kettles. In the US, they are typically much cheaper.

 

[TexasWine]

I use a 9 gallon Bayou Claasic most brew days. That volume with a sparge is no problem.