More Fermentation Space Needed

[TylerB24]

I started with a Haier 5.0 Freezer as my fermentation chamber with an STC-1000. I have since upgraded it to a BrewPi (which is awesome). It's great for single 5gal batches or 5gal and various 1 gal odds and ends. The problem I'm running into lately is trying to ferment multiple batches at the same time, especially as i'm getting into more interesting beers that require longer fermentation times.

I'd like to be able to ferment 2-3 5gal batches at the same time, and be able to control at least one of them independently (lagers, etc). If I was starting from scratch, i'd probably just get a bigger chest freezer to hold 2 and then a kegerator-style fridge for the single.

I'm just trying to figure out the best way forward with what i already have. Any suggestions?

 

[Pappers_]

Maybe use the one you have now that comfortably holds on batch for your lager and lagering chamber, and get another larger fridge for the multiple batches at ale temps?

 

[kh54s10]

I built a chamber out of 2x4s plywood and rigid insulation foam. A minifridge sits in one end. It will hold 3 fermenters and will cool enough for ales. I then bought a 7cf freezer for doing lagers. It will hold 2 at a time. I also rotate some out of cooling when I need more space. If one has been cool for 2 weeks, I take it out for the new one. A rise in temperature will help it finish if needed.

 

[day_trippr]

You can run multiple "instances" of BrewPi using a single RPi and as many UNO R3 modules and associated relay sets as you want.
I run four separate BrewPi processes controlling my keezer, two fridges and a cold-season ferm cabinet (heat only) all on a single RPi2B.

In this case, the first instance should be run in Fridge Constant mode, controlling the freezer compressor, with no Heat function configured, and set to the lowest fermentation temperature desired (pick the coldest running temperature for the variety of yeast strain being used, for instance).

A second instance would be run in Beer Constant mode - or using a Profile - with no Cold function configured, and the Heat function controlling a BrewBelt or equivalent wrapped around the fermentor.

A third instance would be an identical clone of the second, controlling a BrewBelt on the second fermentor.

There is at least one person who was doing this with four fermentors in a single chest freezer...

Cheers!

 

[TylerB24]

Maybe use the one you have now that comfortably holds on batch for your lager and lagering chamber, and get another larger fridge for the multiple batches at ale temps?

That's what I was thinking but the chest freezer doesn't seem to be an efficient use of space for a single Carboy. But I guess I already have it.
Trying to decide on another larger chest freezer or maybe a homemade chamber