Dumb Newb Airlock Question

[Fadeux]

Ok, so this is the Airlock I have

Airlock 3 piece type :: Midwest Supplies Homebrewing and Winemaking Supplies

I assume it is still supposed to be filled with water/vodka, but I really don't know because I haven't read about this style anywhere.

 

[histo320]

Yep, filled with water or vodka, your choice. You fill it up to the line about 1/2 way up.

 

[Yooper]

Yes, if you hold it up to the light, you'll see a faint line. That's the fill line. Just fill it to the line, and you'll be all set!

 

[BlackDogBrewing]

You'll want to check the airlock every day or two and top it off if it's low.

 

[Panzermann]

Vodka? And the purpose of that is?

 

[Fadeux]

Im told it kills airborne bacteria better than regular water, and if there is reverse flow back into the beer, you won't be drinking a sanitizer solution.

 

[Deacon240]

Vodka? And the purpose of that is?

Ever see vodka with mold in it? I haven't. It helps keep outside influences out of your fermenting beer.

 

[Panzermann]

Ever see vodka with mold in it? I haven't. It helps keep outside influences out of your fermenting beer.

Learn something everyday...lol

 

[casebrew]

Whiskey or brandy would work too. Won't add much flavor, one ounce in five gallons.

 

[Fadeux]

How about everclear? I can't imagine something that would be more easily able to kill little infiltrators...

 

[Panzermann]

I think this is a ridiculous idea to put anything but water in the airlock...to each his own

 

[ChshreCat]

I just use a little starsan and water from my spray bottle.

 

[Yooper]

I think this is a ridiculous idea to put anything but water in the airlock...to each his own

ridiculous? why? If the airlock fluid gets sucked back into the fermenter, would you rather have water that's been sitting there for 5 or 6 days, or a little vodka, or some sanitizer?

I can understand that you don't want anything but water- that's fine. But others may not appreciate that you think it's "ridiculous" if they do something differently. One of the great things about homebrewing is that we can all do things differently and none of them are wrong.

 

[ifishsum]

How about everclear? I can't imagine something that would be more easily able to kill little infiltrators...

Cheap vodka is plenty enough to kill anything so why spend the extra money? Besides that, Everclear would evaporate out even quicker, you'd be topping it off frequently.

I use leftover sanitized water myself. Never had problem one, but I am careful to avoid suckback.