Cold conditioning outside

[Chaco_the_dog]

This is probably a no brainer but I'm a rookie home brewer. For my second brew I want to try a Kolsch extract kit . My wife's favorite beer is the Uinta Hoodoo Kolsch. I've been reading a lot of Kolsch recipes and they usually require keeping the fermentor around 50 degrees for several weeks . I have no room in my fridge for a carboy but the outside temp fluctuates from the teens to the 50s this time of year in AZ mountain country. I thought of wrapping the carboy in blankets and sticking it in a wooden shed outside. As long as the brew doesn't freeze would this work? Too cold? Bonehead idea?

 

[COLObrewer]

Too much fluctuation, the yeasties need it stable, consider a brew belt or semi heated space.

 

[TopherM]

+1....consistent temps are very important to consistent yeast performance.

Throw the fermenter in a big water bath in your garage, and the thermal mass will help regulate the temps despite those short term temp swings. Those watertight laundry baskets with the rope handles for about $9.99 at WalMart work great.

Good luck!

 

[Chaco_the_dog]

Thanks for the advice. I'll try the bath. I really appreciate it.

 

[kevinb]

+1....consistent temps are very important to consistent yeast performance.

Throw the fermenter in a big water bath in your garage, and the thermal mass will help regulate the temps despite those short term temp swings. Those watertight laundry baskets with the rope handles for about $9.99 at WalMart work great.

Good luck!

That is exactly what I do (got it from Walmart).