Missing Pre-boil gravity (help)

[sparky2284]

my pre-boil gravity was lower than estimated. it was estimated at 1.051 and i recorded 1.031. For my mash i measured my volumes for mashing and single batch sparge correctly. i sparged for 5 mins (stirring), vorlaufed for then drained. am i missing something?

 

[sandyeggoxj]

From what you said it sounds good. How did you calculate your estimated og? I'd look to your grain crush for improving efficiency. Where do you crush your grain? Also, one batch sparge? Maybe add a second.

 

[sparky2284]

From what you said it sounds good. How did you calculate your estimated og? I'd look to your grain crush for improving efficiency. Where do you crush your grain? Also, one batch sparge? Maybe add a second.

I used beer smith to do all my calculations. i got my grained all milled at the LHBS. i was told a single batch sparge is more than enough. Any other advice?

 

[sandyeggoxj]

What is your efficiency set to in beersmith? You can double mill your grain at the lhbs.

 

[sparky2284]

What is your efficiency set to in beersmith? You can double mill your grain at the lhbs.

my Tot Eff is at 72.00 and my Est Mash Eff is 84

 

[Conan]

That estimated mash efficiency is likely what messed you up. Is this a consistent problem or a one time thing? We're your volumes all on the mark? Kyle

 

[sparky2284]

That estimated mash efficiency is likely what messed you up. Is this a consistent problem or a one time thing? We're your volumes all on the mark? Kyle

consistent problem

 

[Conan]

That was fast. Definitely check the crush. A photo could help. You may want to try a double batch sparge. I do singles and get good efficiency but also do my own crush and have dialed in my system. Are your temps good on the mash, and has your thermometer been checked? Kyle

 

[Sir-Hops-A-Lot]

I agree with the advice about double milling at the LBS. I had the same problem on my first beer as did a friend. Often the grind isn't fine enough.

You could pitch your yeast and then add some boiled extract once the krausen gets going. This kind of start is actually good for the yeast to get started.

Once you know that you have a good grind, you can skip the pre-boil gravity. I only check it once it has cooled to go to the primary (but this is just the way I do it). I wouldn't double sparge as it can lead to tannins and a nasty taste.

 

[duboman]

Did you temp correct your reading? Do you check your mash pH? Did you hit your desired volumes?

 

[sparky2284]

i checked everything and made sure my volumes were right. maybe i should ask to double mill my grains. then go from there. I'm in the middle of my brew session, so ill check to see my OG.

 

[sandyeggoxj]

Did you temp correct your reading? Do you check your mash pH? Did you hit your desired volumes?

Good call... How are you measuring gravity? If it is hydrometer then what temp are you measuring at? Most hydrometers seem to be calibrated around 60°F.

 

[sparky2284]

Good call... How are you measuring gravity? If it is hydrometer then what temp are you measuring at? Most hydrometers seem to be calibrated around 60°F.

Yeah I'm using my hydrometer. It's at 60F...I convert it as well. I was wondering if it can be my equipment profile.

I did my final gravity test and it came out at 1.054 and it was estimated at 1.061


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