Foaming question.

[NorsemenRugby58]

Did my first AG brew in awhile last night. Had a TERRIBLE case of foaming with the brew...threatened boil over for 40+mins (could've been longer, only started counting after a bit). Foam would NOT dissipate. I have very little head space and did not use anything like fermcap etc.

Was wondering, MUST I wait for foaming to subside before I can add my hop additions, or can I just throw them in there once the boil begins and manage the foam? I boiled off way too much wort. (6.5gal to under 5)...and boiled for a long time.... not to mention my efficiency was ~60% because I did a ****ty job batch sparging.... its been awhile and didnt do it right.

So anyways, the question is whether or not I have to wait for the boil to stop foaming to add my hops, or whether waiting is just a safety thing.

 

[Cheeto]

A spray bottle along the side of the boil pot will work wonders !!!!

Or look in to http://www.austinhomebrew.com/product_info.php?cPath=178_21_187_399&products_id=10388

 

[iijakii]

I've read about people that skim the hop-break material off before it subsides just for less kettle-trub. Not many people do that, maybe there's a proper reason why.

I don't think waiting for the foam to subside is mandatory, but regardless it's definitely a safety precaution.