Doubling up extract kits?

[streetsandroads]

Hi all,

I'm new to brewing and this forum and so pumped to brew lots of great beer! I was curious if there were any problems with brewing two batches of extract kits at the same time.

I'm considering buying a large kettle to replace the one that I have so I can brew more beer at once. I can't think of why there would be a particular problem, but thought that I'd check here.

Happy brewing,
Nate

 

[kh54s10]

The main limitation on most new brewers is how much they can boil. If you are brewing on the stove do a trial run with water to see how much you can bring to boil.

 

[JordanKnudson]

There's nothing wrong with wanting to brew more beer! Just make sure your equipment can handle it (for example, if you're brewing on your stovetop, the burner likely won't be able to boil a double batch...unless you have a really amazing stove, in which case, can I come over and cook sometime? )

You'll be just fine if you are doubling up the same recipe (in other words, 2 of the same kit). Your starting gravity and IBUs might come out a little different than if you were doing a single kit, but it shouldn't be significant enough to merit concern -- you'll still end up with good beer (assuming the kit didn't suck to begin with).

However, if you have two different recipes, obviously don't brew them together. I'm sure this isn't what you meant, but just in case, you can't throw a stout and an IPA in the kettle at the same time and expect them to come out right.

 

[chickypad]

The main limitation on most new brewers is how much they can boil. If you are brewing on the stove do a trial run with water to see how much you can bring to boil.

This and how much you can chill. That's why when most folks go to boils over 3-4 gal or so they invest in some type of propane burner and a wort chiller. There are no chill methods, but you should check out the pros and cons of that.