Blow Off Method

[amrmedic]

Ok

I am now trying a blow off tube method for fermentation. How long should I leave the blow off tube in place before replacing it with my airlock?

Also, is it true with this method, secondary fermentation is not necessary?

 

[Panzermann]

That is up to you. You can leave it on for the duration of fermentation or switch it out once fermentation has settled down. I have done both. I prefer a blow-off tube personally.

 

[Brewsmith]

If you have a blow off tube, there's no reason to switch to an airlock.

A secondary is only needed when dry hopping, fruit beers, or repitching other yeast/bacteria. People still use a secondary as a clearing tank but it's not necessary. I'm lazy and don't want to clean and sanitize another vessel to rack the beer into before transfering again. My beer turns out fine. Just leave the fermenter until it's completely done and then bottle or keg. Even if that means 2-4 weeks.

 

[Hammy71]

I've been doing the blow-off for the initial fermentation (usually the first week). I then put on the air-lock. It just makes it easier to move the carboy around. If your going to let it sit.....the blow off is just fine. (It's just another airlock really....)

 

[chrisewalk]

I use a blow of tube, I usually put the airlock on at 2-4 days. Probably not neccesary though. I did it this way because of instructions I started using. I haven't used a secondary yet. I use a glass carboy as my primary. My beers left in there for 2-3 weeks seem to turn out fine.

 

[Kayos]

Hotly debated topic over using a secondary. I secondary all of my beers that are not supposed to be hazy and I think it makes quite a bit of difference.