Cheap stock pots anywhere?

[Brewmenn]

The only thing I'd be cautious about is the size.
If you're brewing 5 gallons on a fryer setup in a 10 gallon pot, it's just a matter of time before you'll want to do 10 gallons.
The step up to a 15 gallon pot is relatively small.
Just Sayin.
Bull

I don't think it's a given that everyone that is currently doing 5 gallon batches will eventually want to do 10. Most of the homebrew supply houses seem to be geared for 5 gallon brews, and much more than 5 gallons would get too heavy to move around. I don't see myself ever wanting to brew more than 5 gallons at a time.

Now it you said that some 5 gallons batches would require a pot bigger than 10 gallons than would be a factor.

 

[masonsjax]

I've had 5 gallon batches boil over my 10 gallon pot. For 90 min boils I need a pre boil volume of 7.5 gallons, 7 gallons for 60 mins. How on earth are people doing 5 gallon batches in an 8 gallon kettle? Must be topping off, or just settling for less in the fermenter I guess.

 

[freisste]

I've had 5 gallon batches boil over my 10 gallon pot. For 90 min boils I need a pre boil volume of 7.5 gallons, 7 gallons for 60 mins. How on earth are people doing 5 gallon batches in an 8 gallon kettle? Must be topping off, or just settling for less in the fermenter I guess.

I have a 30qt pot and I do 5 gallon batches without issue - no topping off. I end up with slightly more than 5 gallons in primary to make up for trub losses. I actually had to leave a little behind on my last batch because I don't like filling kegs past the level of the gas-in tube. (Not to hijack, but can I cut that shorter? Never thought of it until now.)

 

[glenn514]

I just did some quick web surfing, and found a nice 40 quart aluminum stock pot AND lid for about $45.00 at a restaurant supply store in Rockford, IL...the largest city near me. I would agree with the post that encouraged buying local...you can find good deals, and not have to pay shipping costs.

glenn514

 

[botigol]

I just bought the 8 gal tamale steamer at Target for $11 on clearance. Should be worth checking your local Target in case they are clearing theirs out as well.

 

[masonsjax]

I have a 30qt pot and I do 5 gallon batches without issue - no topping off. I end up with slightly more than 5 gallons in primary to make up for trub losses. I actually had to leave a little behind on my last batch because I don't like filling kegs past the level of the gas-in tube. (Not to hijack, but can I cut that shorter? Never thought of it until now.)

That makes sense, I shoot for 6 gallons post boil, and put 5.5 in the fermenter. I usually save any excess for making starters and as fresh wort for my harvested yeast. I fill my kegs to about a half inch below the gas diptube consistently so if I'm priming the keg, I know how much sugar to add. I'd much rather have excess than not enough. I guess if I had to, I could make 5 gallon batches without the elbow room. Nice to have it though, and I'd relax even more if I had more than I've got.

I don't think trimming the gas tube would hurt anything.

 

[Meadiator]

Do I need to get a lid to brew, or is it just something to keep the stock pot covered when I'm not using r?

I just did some quick web surfing, and found a nice 40 quart aluminum stock pot AND lid for about $45.00 at a restaurant supply store in Rockford, IL...the largest city near me. I would agree with the post that encouraged buying local...you can find good deals, and not have to pay shipping costs.



glenn514

 

[Foosier]

I use the same 40 QT Win ware pot from Amazon mentioned earlier.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CHKL68/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20

You don't need the lid if you are doing traditional 3 vessel brewing with a cooler mashtun. If you find you need a lidt there are some super cheap ghetto options. I did not get a lid for mine initially and use a peice of particle board wrapped in tin foil. UGLY AS SIN, but it worked. If you are going to BIAB, get the lid it is worth it.

Also note, that pot is SUPER tough. I don't know what it would take to damage it. It is 1/4 inch thick aluminum. I think you could use it as a car jack in a pinch if you needed to (not that I'd treat my brewing gear that way.)

Stainless is great, but if you are really looking to brew and budget is a factor, there is no reason not to use Aluminum pots. As far as the danger of cleaning the oxide layer off, I think you would need an angle grinder to buff through that layer after a few brews. I use a soft scubby on mine to get the dried on gunk off and have no issues with getting close to cutting the oxide layer.

 

[wilserbrewer]

Do I need to get a lid to brew, or is it just something to keep the stock pot covered when I'm not using r?

You don't NEED a lid to brew, but it is nice to have a lid. Heating water or wort will go quicker with a covered pot, boil uncovered. A lid is also handy if your cooled wort is sitting out for a few minute, you can slap a lid on the pot to prevent any thing airborne form falling in, not a big deal, just kinda nice to have IMO.

 

[rlmiller10]

Might watch overstock.com. I picked up a nice 8 gal SS pot with a very heavy bottom (I do 3 to 4 gal batches so I can do more of them) for 60 bucks. Seems to be a good place for occasional deals.

 

[masonsjax]

A lid is nice for doing hop stands too.

 

[Meadiator]

A lid is nice for doing hop stands too.

Is that sort of like a keg stand? ;p

 

[wfd336]

Just don't scrub the hell out of it, and it'll last forever. I use an 8g turkey fryer setup. I like to brew outside. In the sun, or in the snow. Doesn't matter. I'm drunk anyways...

Love it. I do the same exact thing. Cheers.


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[Clankenbrew]

Amazon has 60qt (15gal) aluminum... Thick aluminum for 60$.... I have a 32qt now that i will be upgrading to the 60qt. I always boil water in them for atleast a half hour to season them... Then your good to go. I always clean it with dawn and never had a problem.


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