Best way to thoroughly clean an immersion chiller

[linusstick]

So I am on batch 5 of my renewed love of brewing. I am doing all BIAB small batch brewing (1-1.5 gallon). One process that is annoying me is going back to doing an ice bath to chill my wort. When I quit brewing many years ago I was doing full 5 gallon batches and usually one every couple of weeks so
I have 2 leftover immersion chillers. One bigger one and a smaller one. They have been in my shed unused for 8-10 years and do not look very good. I was wondering if I should use the smaller one to quicken my cooling time. I almost bought a pump and plate chiller but realized for such small batches that would really be overkill. So if I am to use the immersion chiller what would be the best cleaning method to use? Soak in PBW for a while then maybe run the cleaner through it?I don't want metallic or off flavors coming from the metal (I was always afraid of that even when it was newer) so if you think buying a new one would be a better choice let me know. I'm done with the ice baths but not ready for nasty metal flavors in my beer!

 

[applescrap]

Sure, pbw bath, then sanitizer dunk. Tighten worm drives, if its has them, and most put in boil last 10 minutes to sanatize. I dunk mine in sanatizer because I dont put it on my element. I agitate it, which speeds chilling, extremely. Last, you could clean the inside, but it shouldn't be in contact with your beer.

 

[RPh_Guy]

FWIW I cool my 1-gal batches in a stainless pot in only like 10-20 minutes with an ice bath. The key is keeping the water moving.

 

[mongoose33]

Sure, pbw bath, then sanitizer dunk. Tighten worm drives, if its has them, and most put in boil last 10 minutes to sanatize. I dunk mine in sanatizer because I dont put it on my element. I agitate it, which speeds chilling, extremely. Last, you could clean the inside, but it shouldn't be in contact with your beer.

^ This is what I would do. What's inside it doesn't matter--only the chilling water will touch it .

But cleaning the outside, not a bad idea. I always put my immersion chiller in at 15 minutes to go to sanitize it. So far, has worked well.

 

[beermanpete]

If PBW does not remove the tarnish try a mild acid such as citric acid or acetic acid to brighten the copper. You could use a scotchbright or steelwool instead if you don't mind scrubbing and you can get into any small spaces ok.

 

[applescrap]

Once you dunk it in starsan, its going to be shiny, almost look new.

 

[Kerrbrewer]

+1 on acid bath. I use vinegar and water.

 

[Transamguy77]

I would spray with some vinegar and let it sit for 15-20 mins then put it in boiling water and boil for like 15-20 more mins should come out pretty shiny. It doesn't take much to get copper clean.