Fermentation Lock - Question

[edwood]

So I lost the little red cap that goes to my standard fermentation lock. I just pitched some yeast and so rather than put the lock on without the top, I went with foil and a rubber band.

Is the top (cap) solely to keep out particulate matter or does it serve another purpose? I'm guessing that I should get a new cap so that when I brew on Saturday, my primary is set up right?

Thanks,

-Ed

 

[Blender]

I think the cap is there just to make sure the float doesn't fly out. I would also put a couple of holes in the foil. My caps have breather holes.

 

[lapaglia]

On the S shaped lock its there to prevent things from getting into the water. Not all brands come with a cap. Some company's don't supply them. It's nice to have but not needed. but a little bit of cheese cloth with a rubber band if you want to. The fancy glass ones don't use them.

 

[Cpt_Kirks]

Slightly OT, but has anyone had issues fitting the three piece locks into the little grommet in an Ale Pale?

When I try to insert it, the grommet tries to roll up on me.

 

[TheJadedDog]

Foil and a rubber band work just fine but the lock should be okay without the cap as well.

 

[DutchK9]

Slightly OT, but has anyone had issues fitting the three piece locks into the little grommet in an Ale Pale?

When I try to insert it, the grommet tries to roll up on me.

Try wetting the grommet and Airlock. Usually it will slide right in.

 

[edwood]

Ok, thanks, guys. Happy brewing!

 

[IFMracin]

Try wetting the grommet and Airlock. Usually it will slide right in.

Yep.
I spray some sanitizer on it and it slips right in.

 

[GilaMinumBeer]

On the S shaped lock its there to prevent things from getting into the water. Not all brands come with a cap. Some company's don't supply them. It's nice to have but not needed. but a little bit of cheese cloth with a rubber band if you want to. The fancy glass ones don't use them.

Now there is an easy way to shatter $8.00.