I can't figure out efficency fluctuations...

[thisisbeer]

Ok so I have done quite a few 5 gallon batches (40+) and I have always gotten between 65%-70% efficiency. Not the best but it was consistent so I decided not to mess with it. Last night I decided to do my 1st 10 gallon batch and hit 83% efficiency! I couldn't believe it. The only thing I could think of that was different was my mash was thicker than usual. But my sparge was 6 gallons. Which is double what I usually do for my 5 gallon batches (3 gallons). So I didn't think its better from sparging more. Any idea on what changed?

 

[helibrewer]

Are you fly or batch sparging? In either case your sparge volume should be about the same as your batch volume plus or minus .5 gallon

 

[thisisbeer]

Fly sparging. I just go by beersmiths measurements. I have neber heard that before.

 

[mytommygundont]

If you wouldn't mind elaborating a little more about your process, I think that we could figure it out.

Also, is this a recipe that you have brewed before?