Do you still recommend a false bottom?

[psuhammer14]

If I go BIAB, it will most likely be with a 10 gallon kettle for 5 gallon batches. Would you still recommend a false bottom or bazooka screen to filter the wort going into the fermenter?

I hope to keep my temps consistent inside the kettle with just wrapping it up, or putting it into a warm oven, but I think having the ability to use my propane burner on low to help with that would be a goof thing, but I dont want to scorch the grains or the bag.

So I guess, do most BiAB people use kettles with false bottoms in this regard?

 

[jekeane]

Just a kettle with no screen or bottom.
Your bag can be easily lifted off the bottom by hand while you bump temps.

 

[TorMag]

The bag is the filter screen. you just need something to keep the bag off the bottom, like a stainless steel colander or ss cooling rack.

 

[toddfore]

I use a steamer rack with the legs folded up and I haven't had a bag scorch.

 

[LLBeanJ]

No screen or false bottom. Just a bag. A kettle with a clad bottom removes all scorching worries (assuming you had any) when heat needs to be added.

 

[Redlantern]

The bag is the false bottom.

Both serve to prevent large particles from passing. as was said above, just don't scorch the bag.

 

[psuhammer14]

good info everyone, thanks a lot.

 

[wilserbrewer]

Just a bag and kettle are all that is needed IMO. With practice, you shouldn't need to add heat to the mash.

If you need to raise the temp a few degrees, you can apply low heat and STIR CONSTANTLY!!!

Another means to adjust your mash temp is to reserve a few quarts of near boiling water and have it waiting to add to the mash if you need minor upward adjustment. If no adjustment is needed, then just add the hot water at the end of mash and stir well.

No mash out required.

I wouldn't bother with a FB, just be judicious applying heat and stir constantly if raising temp...be patient it will take a while to heat all that grain and water.

Bazooka totally not needed.

 

[havoc531]

Follow up question to the OP's post:
For an electric BIAB setup, is the false bottom necessary?

 

[cvisinho]

Bazooka is not totally necessary as stated above.
I run one just incase and I seem to catch some fine sediment almost always. Nothing to worry about though it would just end up in the trub anyhow.

 

[TexasWine]

Follow up question to the OP's post:
For an electric BIAB setup, is the false bottom necessary?

Same answer. Only if you apply heat would one be recommended. I use a basket in my system because I have a recirculating eBIAB set up.

 

[havoc531]

I recirculate while mashing on my eBIAB setup as well. Sounds like it's best to keep the false bottom and not risk scorching the bag!