Long fermentation

[skidaddytn]

I am on my fourth 5 gallon batch and decided to try a light beer this time.

Its been 2 weeks in the primary and while fermentation has slowed, it is still bubbling every 5 seconds... This one is taking forever... Room condition is 70 degrees. At this rate I feel like it will still need at least another 2 weeks...

This kit had rice extract... which I have never used before... I wonder if this is what is causing longer fermentation?

 

[phatuna]

I've found that all of my fermentations are a little different. I really can't figure out why. I've lately been doing 10 gallon batches, I put 5 gallons into two different primaries, right next to each other, same yeast.

Many times, one primary is done before the other, not sure why...

 

[maida7]

Just cause it's bubbling does not mean it's not done. Has the yeast flocculated? Take a gravity reading and see where it's at.

 

[skidaddytn]

The yeast is definitely at the bottom and the beer looks pretty clear.
Every once in a while you can see a very small surface bubble. This leads me to believe it is not completely finished.

The vigorous fermentation during the beginning took about 4-5 days... Seemed to be pretty normal compared to other batches. The krausen on this batch didn't blow out through the hose, but it was still a respectable size.

Up until now I have just been waiting 2 weeks and watching the bubbling to know when it is done... I guess I might have to break down and buy a hydrometer...

 

[sp1365]

Yes you need to buy a hydrometer. An airlock is nothing more than a vent of CO2 not a gauge of fermentation.

Given that you yeast has flocculated out and the Krausen has fallen I would say that your fermentation is likely done. What you are now seeing is just the degassing of the beer as temperature fluctuates.

 

[maida7]

The bubbles could just be trapped CO2 escaping from the liquid. This happens even after the yeast have finished the ferment. Get thee a hydrometer!

 

[PT Ray]

When it's dropped clear I usually call it done. This usually happens for me around the 3rd week. I may or may not be ready to bottle so can go another week or two.

 

[skidaddytn]

I think you guys are "spot on" with the trapped CO2 idea. This is what it looks like to me... I think I will wait a couple days and bottle. I am going to get a hydrometer with my next ingredient purchase... I will need one when I try a mini mash kit anyhow...