No fermentation again and again

[Jaxmickey]

I would check a few of things:
1. make sure your mill is set to the right gap (up for debate, but mine is .035).
2. make sure the grains are really crushed. if not, run through mill again.
3. make sure your refractometer is calibrated correctly (usually use distilled water).
4. stir your wart and take a reading before you start your boil. run it through the calculator and determine if you are on track to hit your OG. if it's too low, you can stir in DME to make up your points before the boil.

Hope this helps!!!

 

[wajohnst]

Thanks, JaxMickey! I did wonder about my milling and whether it was adequate.
Also, the tip about boosting with DME is something to keep in mind.
Thanks.

 

[kh54s10]

I have adjusted with DME only once. I was quite a bit low. If a little low, I just accept what I get. It is usually just fine.

 

[bigdaddybrew]

Chickypad, I'm sorry but it looks increasingly like my problems relate to mis-use of the refractometer. What I thought was 1.080/1.060 when I enter in the brewersfriend Brix calculator comes out as 1.037/1.011... so another case of inadequate OG.

You only use the refractometer adjustment calculator after fermentation has begun. Before adding the yeast a refractometer should give an accurate reading at room temp.