arbadarchi
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- Joined
- Apr 3, 2014
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I'm looking for some input for what my next steps should be. Here's my background.
I'm 4 3.5 gal biab batches deep in brewing in a plastic e kettle (Pictures on bottom). It's a humble single 1500w element that while getting the job done is a little slow. It's thick PP plastic which has a high melting point. I have an stc-1000 controlled mini fridge for fermenting in.
I am having difficulty keeping a stable mash temperature even with wrapping my kettle in a sleeping bag. I think this is the area I want to focus on getting right next. I am on a very tight brewing budget so I can't afford to just throw $100 into a new pump ect... But was thinking of getting one of those cheap eBay $25 food grade pumps and trying to do some sort of RIMS setup using my controller from the fridge to fire my element while recirculating, however I think I may try to use something like a heating pad to keep a stable mash temp for now.
The other area I'm looking at is wort aeration... Currently I'm not doing much in that department and am wondering if I should try to get O2? I've been reading that improper aeration can lead to all sorts of off flavors (which I have been getting).
I also have only used dry yeast and have done no starters.
Looking for your input as to what my priorities should be as a budget brewer trying to get his technique down before doing more advanced stuff.
View attachment ImageUploadedByHome Brew1445190067.438630.jpgView attachment ImageUploadedByHome Brew1445190086.761733.jpg
I'm 4 3.5 gal biab batches deep in brewing in a plastic e kettle (Pictures on bottom). It's a humble single 1500w element that while getting the job done is a little slow. It's thick PP plastic which has a high melting point. I have an stc-1000 controlled mini fridge for fermenting in.
I am having difficulty keeping a stable mash temperature even with wrapping my kettle in a sleeping bag. I think this is the area I want to focus on getting right next. I am on a very tight brewing budget so I can't afford to just throw $100 into a new pump ect... But was thinking of getting one of those cheap eBay $25 food grade pumps and trying to do some sort of RIMS setup using my controller from the fridge to fire my element while recirculating, however I think I may try to use something like a heating pad to keep a stable mash temp for now.
The other area I'm looking at is wort aeration... Currently I'm not doing much in that department and am wondering if I should try to get O2? I've been reading that improper aeration can lead to all sorts of off flavors (which I have been getting).
I also have only used dry yeast and have done no starters.
Looking for your input as to what my priorities should be as a budget brewer trying to get his technique down before doing more advanced stuff.
View attachment ImageUploadedByHome Brew1445190067.438630.jpgView attachment ImageUploadedByHome Brew1445190086.761733.jpg