Noob Headspace Question

[TxFireBrew]

I want to brew 2.5 gal batches. Is there too much headspace in a 5 gal fermenter? Should I get a 3.5 gal fermenter?

 

[Waynep005]

RM the 5 gal fermented is fine for primary

Sent from my XT907 using Home Brew mobile app

 

[tooldudetool]

Excessive headspace isn't really an issue with a primary fermenter. During fermentation the headspace will fill with CO2 regardless. The issue would be if you racked to a secondary and let it sit for awhile, as you would have a large headspace full of oxygen which would lead to oxygenation issues.

 

[TxFireBrew]

Thank you so much for the help and information. This site is great, it has really helped me a lot.

 

[Shawmerrill]

So throwing a 1 gallon batch in a 5 gallon primary for only a week prior to moving to a 1 gallon secondary would not be a problem?

 

[m1k3]

So throwing a 1 gallon batch in a 5 gallon primary for only a week prior to moving to a 1 gallon secondary would not be a problem?

Now that's the question... will you get more oxygen pick up racking or leaving it in primary.

If you are doing an smaller ale and expect to be done in 10-14 days, I say don't go to secondary.

If it's a big beer or a lager... you would probably need to go to secondary with less headspace.

 

[ChugachBrewing]

Yes. the surface area in contact with surrounding "carboy atmosphere" is the same no matter how full it is (until it starts to come together at the top). As long as you transfer as primary fermentation finishes, you'll be fine.

 

[pdietert]

You will be glad to have the 5 gallon. When everyone finds out you are home brewing, it does not seem to last as long.