Help with Cider

[NightCreature420]

I followed an easy cider recipe, and it called for a balloon on the jug. However, the guy never said to poke a pin hole in it. He said once you do it, the next day the balloon will start to air up a little bit. Well, I opened the closet this morning, and my balloon is almost fully inflated. What happened? Should i poke a pin hole in the balloon? The guy that posted the video said the balloon would be fully inflated in about 7 days or so. It only took 1 day. Now, I am not sure what exactly to do next? Should I just wait the full 7 days? Can someone please help me?

 

[dawn_kiebawls]

Though I don't believe in the balloon method, yes, you should poke a pin hole in it at the highest point. Meanwhile, as it stays filled, shop around and find an airlock/bung system to be better equipped.

What size/type jug are you using?

 

[RPh_Guy]

Fermentation produces carbon dioxide gas.
You could poke a pinhole in the balloon to let the gas escape.

Most of us use real airlocks...

S-shaped: cheap, no risk of getting starsan in the fermenter, provided bubbles for entertainment. Used with a stopper. Needs to be filled with sanitizer.
https://morewinemaking.com/products/airlock-sshaped.html

3-piece: cheap, easy to clean, provided bubbles for entertainment. Used with a stopper. Needs to be filled with sanitizer.
https://morewinemaking.com/products/airlock-3-piece.html

Breathable silicone: provides the best seal, least oxygen transfer, and zero risk of suckback. No additional stopper.
https://morewinemaking.com/products/silicone-stopper-breathable-carboy.html

Welcome to HBT! ... And probably don't take any more advice that that guy you mention.
Cheers

 

[NightCreature420]

Though I don't believe in the balloon method, yes, you should poke a pin hole in it at the highest point. Meanwhile, as it stays filled, shop around and find an airlock/bung system to be better equipped.

What size/type jug are you using?

plastic gallon of apple juice...

 

[OpenSights]

Get an air lock like this. Drill a hole just big enough to fit tightly in the original cap. Fill the air lock with vodka or star-san.

Welcome to the club!