PicoBrew Pico users

[macgyuver]

Here are some things that have been confirmed... by the peeps at PicoBrew...

You can brew different brews at the same time. 4 different 2.5 batches on the Z4

It is expandable, Buy Z1 now and you can add 2, 3, 4 expansion rings later

Rack system is being sourced, there will be racks available later. No mentions of size.

There will still be a sample port on all Z series.

They are working on some type of plate chiller add on

The new app and recipe editor will release with Z1 release.

All new hop filter, and step filter design. Cracks should be a thing of the past.

Z1 will be slightly smaller than OGZ, somewhere around 18” wide or a little less. No mention on depth.

 

[Lbarouf]

How much more work does the Zymatic (and I guess the Z) would require to brew when compared to the Pico Pro? Kegging only. Mainly ingredient prepping?

In terms of pricing, if I don't buy large bags of grains, and go in bulk by weight at my local homebrew, how much grain can the step filter take and roughly how much would it run me in ingredients for say, a run of the mill ale?

Counter space... does the Z take more than double the Pico footprint?

 

[jrb03]

How much more work does the Zymatic (and I guess the Z) would require to brew when compared to the Pico Pro? Kegging only. Mainly ingredient prepping?

In terms of pricing, if I don't buy large bags of grains, and go in bulk by weight at my local homebrew, how much grain can the step filter take and roughly how much would it run me in ingredients for say, a run of the mill ale?

Counter space... does the Z take more than double the Pico footprint?

Yes, at least double the footprint.

Price per batch, $20 or so for run of mill ale buying grain and hops per pound and oz.

There is a decent amount of time needed for not only ingredient prepping but designing and building your recipe. More importantly to me, is the extra equipment needed and where to store it. I got out of brewing due to all the “stuff”, my spare room became a brewery. When we had kids things had to change. Pico was perfect in that regard and got me back in it. When I got a Zymatic last year, I had to do some major overhauling to get back into all grain brewing. If you have the space no problem, just another expense and more toys. I would estimate about 1-1.25 hours hands on for a Zymatic batch compared to about 15-20 mins for a Pico.

 

[macgyuver]

$1,011,319.00 so far raised per their tweeter page.

 

[Lbarouf]

Yes, at least double the footprint.

Price per batch, $20 or so for run of mill ale buying grain and hops per pound and oz.

There is a decent amount of time needed for not only ingredient prepping but designing and building your recipe. More importantly to me, is the extra equipment needed and where to store it. I got out of brewing due to all the “stuff”, my spare room became a brewery. When we had kids things had to change. Pico was perfect in that regard and got me back in it. When I got a Zymatic last year, I had to do some major overhauling to get back into all grain brewing. If you have the space no problem, just another expense and more toys. I would estimate about 1-1.25 hours hands on for a Zymatic batch compared to about 15-20 mins for a Pico.

I hear you, and I come from the place. Space is my issue now. As for the recipes, I love tweaking, so I won't mind entering the stuff in it, and for the ingredients, I would bag all the stuff in advance from the store with the right amounts. So they would not take that much more space and would be used pretty much immediately. It's more expensive, but I don't want to store 50 pounders for recipes. Just does not make any sense to me anymore.

Ok, still weighing in on all the aspects. I wonder if it even make sense to get the Z1 if really what I want is a Z3.

Imagining a brew day is over in 5hrs with 3 batches all ready and cooling. Bliss.

Do the Z have to be cleaned like a Pico Pro every 3 batches as well? How's the cleaning, easier, same, faster, longer?

 

[jrb03]

I hear you, and I come from the place. Space is my issue now. As for the recipes, I love tweaking, so I won't mind entering the stuff in it, and for the ingredients, I would bag all the stuff in advance from the store with the right amounts. So they would not take that much more space and would be used pretty much immediately. It's more expensive, but I don't want to store 50 pounders for recipes. Just does not make any sense to me anymore.

Ok, still weighing in on all the aspects. I wonder if it even make sense to get the Z1 if really what I want is a Z3.

Imagining a brew day is over in 5hrs with 3 batches all ready and cooling. Bliss.

Do the Z have to be cleaned like a Pico Pro every 3 batches as well? How's the cleaning, easier, same, faster, longer?

Assuming the Z is like the Zymatic, the deep clean cycle is much longer. Like 2 hours. I’ve always thought it could be shortened. I deep clean every 2 brews, I think it’s officially 2-3.

 

[macgyuver]

The deep clean may be shorter since they did away with the arm and now use valves kinda like the Pico. We can hope right?

 

[jrb03]

The deep clean may be shorter since they did away with the arm and now use valves kinda like the Pico. We can hope right?

Actually that’s why the zymatic SHOULD be shorter. It’s one outlet that stays stationary, as opposed to 6 outlets the Pico has to cycle through. They Zy slowly heats up to like 180 then just circulates as it slowly chills down to 120 it finishes.

I will say my Pico deep cleans are always pretty darn clear. On the Zy after 2 brews I get some gunk.

 

[Conodor]

Wrong place. please ignore.

 

[PeteSeattle]

Howdy folks. New member but have been lurking recently. 7 years brewing experience with all grain but took a 10 year break. The Pico is getting me back in the game.

I recently purchased my Pico C from eBay for just $250 NEW! $250? I couldn’t believe it! With a Picopak thrown in. And it was a “buy now” offer that I could not pass up. I’m speculating it was a kickstarter version and the seller just had to get rid of it. I imagined there was a relationship break up and it was a revenge sale. Just speculation but makes for a good story.

I had to do a search for a solution for an “error” alert for my first batch so I found this thread. I was relieved that I was able to power off the unit and turn it back on to continue the mash. I’m so thankful for that function.

Anyway, I brewed my first batch of Imerial Vanilla Bourbon Porter by @Denny. It was in the OG pak but the top split and clogged the step filter. But thanks to you all I managed to make it through the mash without dumping out the whole session. And also how to unclog the step filter while cleaning which triggered the “error.”

Glad to be part of this fun and informative thread. Thanks for having me.

Ps. The new Z is very tantalizing.

 

[Lbarouf]

Howdy folks. New member but have been lurking recently. 7 years brewing experience with all grain but took a 10 year break. The Pico is getting me back in the game.

I recently purchased my Pico C from eBay for just $250 NEW! $250? I couldn’t believe it! With a Picopak thrown in. And it was a “buy now” offer that I could not pass up. I’m speculating it was a kickstarter version and the seller just had to get rid of it. I imagined there was a relationship break up and it was a revenge sale. Just speculation but makes for a good story.

I had to do a search for a solution for an “error” alert for my first batch so I found this thread. I was relieved that I was able to power off the unit and turn it back on to continue the mash. I’m so thankful for that function.

Anyway, I brewed my first batch of Imerial Vanilla Bourbon Porter by @Denny. It was in the OG pak but the top split and clogged the step filter. But thanks to you all I managed to make it through the mash without dumping out the whole session. And also how to unclog the step filter while cleaning which triggered the “error.”

Glad to be part of this fun and informative thread. Thanks for having me.

Ps. The new Z is very tantalizing.

Welcome Pete ! You're joining quite a few of us. I believe the Pico has attracted quite a few of us who let go of the hobby, but the simplicity of the pico got us to brew again. Especially the size. Please share more of your stories as they happen. That's what is great with this thread/community. Cheers!

I'm still on the fence on the Z. Tempted to pull the trigger on a Z3 or Z2 (I feel the Z3 is the best deal). I still don't have the space though....

 

[macgyuver]

Welcome Pete! Nice story even if you are speculating. I am in the same boat, did BIAB for a few years then got out due to time constraints. Found a Pico S on the shelf at my Costco. I got it for 300 out the door so not bad I don’t think. Been enjoying brewing every since. I wanted to upgrade and have been looking at the OGZ and read all about it. Then the Z came and I jumped. Price wise it was a no brained. A few hundred more and I can do 5gal batches. So yes I bought into a Z2 and now the waiting game occurs. If something else better happens to come along, I hear that Ss Brewtech has something brewing..., then I can cancel anytime. Otherwise I will be sticking with the Z.

There is a wealth of information here with the community and if you want the Facebook group. Enjoy!

 

[macgyuver]

Woot, Woot, I am one of the first 500 orders so I get special edition Z2 and the special edition keg cozy. At least that’s what the email says... now they want us to push the Z to everyone to get more off. Just wish I knew enough people that had disposable income... lol

 

[Ewelady]

Woot, Woot, I am one of the first 500 orders so I get special edition Z2 and the special edition keg cozy. At least that’s what the email says... now they want us to push the Z to everyone to get more off. Just wish I knew enough people that had disposable income... lol

Me too! LOL all my beer friends are kids, they'd love one but they don't have the money

 

[jrb03]

Same here

Code
KYSN0
Save $50 if your gonna order a Z

 

[Goblism]

I think the key will asking some members for a code before buying yourself.
I will add my code as well: KYTXK
I am fine with splitting my $100 with other members 50-50, let me know who you are and I will split the $100 when I receive it.

 

[macgyuver]

I like that idea, I can split discounts as well. Here is my code....

KYW9Z

 

[PeteSeattle]

Thanks @Lbarouf and @macgyuver. All this Z release is exciting to read. The news of it blindsided me and my wallet seems to have a hole in it. So I have to reluctantly pass on such a great deal. But right now the Pico C is fine for me. If I want to make a bigger batch I’ll just get more involved with trying out BIAB since that was not a thing on my radar years ago.

Can’t wait read reports, see pics, and or YouTube vids of the new Z from you lucky folks.

 

[jrb03]

Thanks @Lbarouf and @macgyuver. All this Z release is exciting to read. The news of it blindsided me and my wallet seems to have a hole in it. So I have to reluctantly pass on such a great deal. But right now the Pico C is fine for me. If I want to make a bigger batch I’ll just get more involved with trying out BIAB since that was not a thing on my radar years ago.

Can’t wait read reports, see pics, and or YouTube vids of the new Z from you lucky folks.

Your story sounds just like mine. You will love the Pico, it’s fun and creates awesome wort. Congrats!

 

[cubsfan16]

Same here. I got into brewing with the Zymatic about a year ago. Not knowing about the Z, This Christmas I put together a eBIAB system I can new up to 10g with. While not all hands off it’s not much extra work and is actually faster due to being 240v. That said, I decided upgrade to the new Z1 for support, new recipe crafter, hopefully better durability and ease of cleaning the internals. It’s also very nice to load up on a Friday night have it start at 4am and chill and pitch after breakfast

$50 off code if looking KYT5W

 

[Lbarouf]

Is it me, or the $99 5Gal kegs are not selectable anymore. Was it tue only promo?

 

[Lbarouf]

Same here. I got into brewing with the Zymatic about a year ago. Not knowing about the Z, This Christmas I put together a eBIAB system I can new up to 10g with. While not all hands off it’s not much extra work and is actually faster due to being 240v. That said, I decided upgrade to the new Z1 for support, new recipe crafter, hopefully better durability and ease of cleaning the internals. It’s also very nice to load up on a Friday night have it start at 4am and chill and pitch after breakfast

$50 off code if looking KYT5W

Curious.... would you have not built the eBIAB would you have known this Z series was coming up? Are you trading in the Zymatic for the Z1 or adding the Z1 to the mix?

 

[cubsfan16]

No, I think after using the zymatic I found I could make time to brew and wanted to be more involved in the process. I actually find cleanup is faster with this system than the zymatic and can take everything apart to clean. I worry the Z2 and higher will be a pain to clean 2-4 step filters, hoses heat exchangers etc. I also wanted to see if there was anything to the discussions around poor hop utilization with the zymatic vs kettle brewing since IPAs and PAs are my favorite. Last weekend I brewed a IPA on the eBIAB and a Irish Red on the zymatic. I will keep using the Z for trying new things I don’t want to commit 5-10gal to as well as those stretches I can’t commit 3.5- 4 hrs on a weekend for my eBIAB setup.

 

[Lbarouf]

No, I think after using the zymatic I found I could make time to brew and wanted to be more involved in the process. I actually find cleanup is faster with this system than the zymatic and can take everything apart to clean. I worry the Z2 and higher will be a pain to clean 2-4 step filters, hoses heat exchangers etc. I also wanted to see if there was anything to the discussions around poor hop utilization with the zymatic vs kettle brewing since IPAs and PAs are my favorite. Last weekend I brewed a IPA on the eBIAB and a Irish Red on the zymatic. I will keep using the Z for trying new things I don’t want to commit 5-10gal to as well as those stretches I can’t commit 3.5- 4 hrs on a weekend for my eBIAB setup.

I hear you. Do you find that the Z does not extract as much flavor out of the hops as you would like? Are you using a RIMS or HERMS system if I may ask?

 

[cubsfan16]

I hear you. Do you find that the Z does not extract as much flavor out of the hops as you would like? Are you using a RIMS or HERMS system if I may ask?

Well I find myself hopping at much higher quantities than what most of the public database recipes call for. I usually brew 3gal batches @ 1.50-1.60 or so and dry hop as well as keg hop to get the flavor and aroma I want in my PAs and IPAs. It’s quite possible I am just a hop head but I have seen forum discussions saying others have had the same experience and upped their additions. The good news is there is a solution....add more hops.
For the eBIAB I’m using a RIMS setup from highgravitybrewing. I got a SS Brewtech 15g kettle with a Blichmann Boilcoil and Riptide pump and the controller highgravity sells. I added a Jaded Cyclone CFC (actually bought their corny pillar IC for the Zymatic - pitch in 7min) and whirlpool arm and really digging the setup. I am packaging a Nelson IPA tonight and brewed a Simcoe / Idaho 7 IPA last weekend so I’ll be able to tell you if I notice a difference once I get the Nelson carbed up.

 

[macgyuver]

I posted this earlier to the wrong thread lol, anyway here it is again for anyone looking for a serving keg option... I found this at my local Walmart on clearance.

 

[Lbarouf]

Well I find myself hopping at much higher quantities than what most of the public database recipes call for. I usually brew 3gal batches @ 1.50-1.60 or so and dry hop as well as keg hop to get the flavor and aroma I want in my PAs and IPAs. It’s quite possible I am just a hop head but I have seen forum discussions saying others have had the same experience and upped their additions. The good news is there is a solution....add more hops.
For the eBIAB I’m using a RIMS setup from highgravitybrewing. I got a SS Brewtech 15g kettle with a Blichmann Boilcoil and Riptide pump and the controller highgravity sells. I added a Jaded Cyclone CFC (actually bought their corny pillar IC for the Zymatic - pitch in 7min) and whirlpool arm and really digging the setup. I am packaging a Nelson IPA tonight and brewed a Simcoe / Idaho 7 IPA last weekend so I’ll be able to tell you if I notice a difference once I get the Nelson carbed up.

Cool, thx. Yes, I would be curious to know.

 

[Lbarouf]

Anyone knows if 3 batches could fit in a 5 gal corny for fermenting? Or the headspace is too low for all the krausen it will generate? I’d like to triple batch while avoiding to buy a conical fermenter.

 

[macgyuver]

Anyone knows if 3 batches could fit in a 5 gal corny for fermenting? Or the headspace is too low for all the krausen it will generate? I’d like to triple batch while avoiding to buy a conical fermenter.

My triple batches ferment just fine in a 5 gallon Corny. If all is measured out properly you should be around 4 1/2 gal

1gal 6 cups x 3 = 22 cups x 3
66 cups / 1 gal = 66 cups / 16 cups

4.125 gal

Some of the more aggressive batches that I add a couple cups to will give very little blow off. Use some fermcap-S if you are worried but I don’t think you have to.

 

[macgyuver]

Found more of the keg coolers at another Walmart