How many BTUs should I start with?

[Brandx40]

I just found a guy selling a brand new turkey fryer kit for $30. It is a Bayou Classic and the burner is 55,000 BTU. It seems like a great deal and will allow me to do 5 gallon batches (I am new to all-grain but only 3 gal batches with my electric stove).

Question is this: Is 55,000 BTU strong enough for brewing? I've seen people saying to get 185K or higher. Just curious if I should bother with this deal or save pennies for a better burner.

Here is an example of the modle:

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200186224_200186224[/URL]

 

[The Pol]

I used 55K BTUs... it is plenty to brew 5 gallon batches, AND it is fuel efficient.

 

[Brandx40]

Kinda thought so. I just needed to know it was doable.

 

[mykayel]

You can even do 10 gallon batches with it with no issues, just most of us like our toys and more power is welll, more power....

 

[Surly]

And as you may want more power under your brew kettle in the future, you can always use this one on your HLT.

You found a good deal.

 

[Brandx40]

Thanks for the input folks! I just picked it up last night. Its a damn good deal as its never been opened. I'm stoked to know I can bump up the volume to 10 gal w/out much trouble. Gonna have to decide which recipe to brew up...

 

[MikeRobrew]

i've been shopping around for a burner as well. i'm not sure about your model, but other bayou classic models can be upgraded to a 20 PSI regulator for 185,000 BTUs. They're around $25-

 

[Brandx40]

That is good to know!