Hydrometer bottoming out

[BrewNectar]

I went to check my specific gravity for the first time after 5 days and my hydrometer sunk to the bottom. My testing tube is about 12" high and 3" diameter. Is this just a sign that my brew still has a way to go? Or is it that my testing tube is too shallow or too wide (I'm thinking that it shouldn't matter)? IDK ...stumped.

By the way, the instructions I got with my brew from the dealer didn't give me a specific gravity that I should be looking for. Any ideas on an approximate specific gravity after a 5 day check?

 

[BucksPA]

it shouldnt sink. fill up the tube with just water and take a sample. It should read 1.00. Try filling it up the tube to the top, stick the hydrometer in and let some water spill over (into a sink of course). Most are calibrated to 60F, some 68F. So, attempt at that approximate temp to ensure accuracy or adjust based on temp (their are hydrometer adjustment calculators out there). I think Mr. Malty has one.

Your Original Gravity before fermentation should allow the hydrometer to float higher and after fermentation it should sink more, but not to the bottom. It sounds like you aren't filling it up enough. Mine is about the same size. Take a picture if you don't figure it out. I suppose it's possible you bought a dud.

 

[Brewer_Bob]

12" should be high enough and I doubt the diameter matters. What does matter is how much of a sample you are putting in the tube. If it is bottoming out continue to add beer to the tube until it floats. If it is bottoming out and the tube is filled to the rim then something is likely wrong with the hydrometer.

 

[dpittard]

it shouldnt sink. fill up the tube with just water and take a sample. It should read 1.00. Try filling it up the tube to the top, stick the hydrometer in and let some water spill over (into a sink of course).

Definitely test it in water to make sure the hydrometer isn't faulty. And make sure the test tube is completely filled like quoted.

 

[BrewNectar]

it shouldnt sink. fill up the tube with just water and take a sample. It should read 1.00. Try filling it up the tube to the top, stick the hydrometer in and let some water spill over (into a sink of course). Most are calibrated to 60F, some 68F. So, attempt at that approximate temp to ensure accuracy or adjust based on temp (their are hydrometer adjustment calculators out there). I think Mr. Malty has one.

Your Original Gravity before fermentation should allow the hydrometer to float higher and after fermentation it should sink more, but not to the bottom. It sounds like you aren't filling it up enough. Mine is about the same size. Take a picture if you don't figure it out. I suppose it's possible you bought a dud.

I topped the tube off and it floated. Thank you