This is great to read, especially with someone 15 brews under their belt! So, while I wait for this Sat to arrive for a double brew day (one for friend) I have a few questions for someone with so much GF experience:
1) Have you made any changes from Brew #1 to now that has been a game changer, and wish to add here?
2) Have you found the mash temp old well? Do you leave the valve wide open during mash? I did, and initially mash temp fell about 6 degrees but then settled in within 10 min or so.
3) Any concerns you've had with mash over running the overflow pipe? Mine overran for first 15-20 min or so.
4) I expect to use my IC like you do when tap water rises here (PA), currently ~57. I had valve only open ~1/4-1/3 way and expect to open at least 1/2 way next time and it chilled perfectly. Of course would be quicker with valve open more- so, how far open do you have the valve with your IC ice bath?
5) Have you done any small brews (e.g 2.5-3.5g)? I don't drink that much but love the brewing aspect!
I love the simplicity, lesser items during brewing and the look of the GF. Can't wait to get my brew space set up in the basement and run the wort directly into my fermenter in the chamber- no carrying the conical downstairs! Big fan, and can't wait to brew!