How much heat can hydrometers withstand?

[urg8rb8]

Will a hydrometer explode if I put it in hot wort from the first runnings?

 

[WI_Wino]

Could crack if the temp difference between the two is great enough. Refractometers work great for these types of readings. Only takes a couple of drops and you get the reading in seconds.

 

[estricklin]

I've probably pushed one to 140F, but the readings are supposed not that accurate at those temps. So ya, I dunno about the heat but I exactly how hard you have to drop one to break it, NOT MUCH.

 

[urg8rb8]

Thanks for that feedback! I'll just stay away from hydrometers right after the mash.

 

[PADave]

I've used mine in mash temp wort, was fine. That being said, just pull a sample and let it sit a few minutes. The small amount of wort cools off pretty quickly. Or even put it into a fridge or freezer for a few minutes to speed things up. I get inconsistent and inaccurate results with my refractometer, so I've gone back to the hydrometer for everything. Make sure you correct for temperature to get an accurate reading.

 

[govner1]

Correction for temperature is important in getting accurate readings w/ a hydrometer.
Taking a small sample & letting it cool as PADave says is your best option. Or get a good refractometer. Even w/ those having ATC you'll get more consistent readings by letting your sample cool.

 

[BenCL]

Hydrometers are incorrect at temps above or below 15C/60F usually.

They are calibrated for a correct reading at that temp and if you measure otherwise there are calculations you need to do to correct for the temp difference.

The average hydrometer isnt exactly accurate with its gradients anyway, so a slight difference any side will be normal.

Adding too much temp difference just adds further inaccuracy.