PicoBrew Pico users

[Lax coach]

So excluding shipping, the kit comes with $15 worth of empty full-size paks ($3x5). The other $35 buys you:

5 more hops paks (as pico pak minis)
3 Reusable dividers
Stainless clips to hold the paks shut
Adjunct sachets
5 Mineral packets
10 "tea bags" of Bittering hops

Doesn't seem like a screaming bargain, but not a ripoff either.

 

[Lbarouf]

So adjuncts and hops go in reusable bags? Since they don't put reusable in front, I will guess not. Sounds like you need to buy more than the 10 pack of mash bins.

 

[tsg32]

What is the purpose of the extra 5 hop paks (mini's) in the initial bundle?

 

[Lax coach]

For making your own "fusion" beverages using either the Pico U or the C/S/Pro Fusion kit.

 

[tsg32]

Funny, I backed the kit for the pro and haven't been checking up on the kickstarter. Makes sense now how it works. Thanks.

 

[etavares]

Ok. I had backed the Pico U on Kickstarter and they just cancelled it tonight. As I think where to go next, I had a question on the C vs Pro. As I look it over...it seems that short of the larger display and SS finish, there’s not much difference from a wort production standpoint. Most differences appear to be in the kegs and fittings. Assuming I racked from the Pico keg to my carboy for a controlled fermentation then to my own serving kegs...it looks like the C would work fine for me. Am I understanding that correctly?

 

[PeteSeattle]

Ok. I had backed the Pico U on Kickstarter and they just cancelled it tonight. As I think where to go next, I had a question on the C vs Pro. Assuming I racked from the Pico keg to my carboy for a controlled fermentation then to my own serving kegs...it looks like the C would work fine for me. Am I understanding that correctly?

If you understand the fittings (C being fitted to Pico’s proprietary system) then you are correct.

I also racked to my own fermenter because I’m one of those who like to observe the fermentation.

I too backed the project but just the brew your own packs. This option was what made me decide to keep my C. Now that it’s not really on the table anymore it might hit the for sale thread.

 

[etavares]

Thanks...and yeah. The proprietary fittings won’t matter if I rack to my carboy and kegs. The only thing keeping me from buying the C now is if I believe them that the brew your own packs are still coming and will work with the C. They lost a lot of credibility after this campaign.

 

[macgyuver]

We’ve also heard your enthusiasm for Fusion and BYO and we’re working on bringing those benefits to you early on your Pico C as well. Please stay tuned.

Looks like they are still planning the BYO just not sure when [emoji17]

 

[Lax coach]

I read that statement as "we're going to bring out the fusion kit and BYO before the launch of the U"

As an owner of an S, I would actually recommend the C. Not because I dislike my S, but because the C kegs are AWESOME for brewing, and you need an adapter kit to use them with the S/Pro. The hoses are heavy enough that they have to be positioned just so to prevent them from wiggling the rubber adapters off. The C's hoses fit right over the barbs on the keg, so you don't have that problem.

If you want to do a closed transfer to your fermenter or kegs, you'll still need the adapter kit to use with the transfer tube, but that's not an issue at all.

 

[Bashkey]

Hi there! I have a troubleshooting question I hope you all can help me with...

I am brewing a batch of Atomic Amber (it is my first time running the show solo ...usually my husband is the “brewmaster”, but he is out to sea and I wanted to have a batch waiting for him when he came home). We have recently moved and I think the new climate may be throwing me for a loop or something....o can’t figure it out. The temperature has been right at the upper edge of the slow fermentation range (between 22-23 C), but we had always used the slow fermentation process in the terribly hot summers of Japan without any problems, so I figured San Diego weather would be no problem. I have been carefully monitoring the temperature and trying to keep the keg and the room it is in as consistent as I can. It has only been about 5 days and the “burping” in the air lock has slowed to about 1-2 belches per minute. I remember from previous brews that this process took closer to 7 or 8 days for us most of the time. I am apprehensive to cold crash the beer already, as I don’t want it to have “off” flavors, yet, I don’t want it to just sit around, either. What do you think I should do?

Thank you so much for your help!

 

[tsg32]

Personally I just let mine go for two weeks. I don't have a refractometer to accurately measure final gravity and make sure it is done fermenting. I also work out of town during the week, so it makes it easier for me this way. As long as you have liquid in the airlock, there is no problem letting it sit for awhile to make sure it is done.

 

[BrewingBrian]

Did anyone read this part in the emails "Use our Beer Editor and choose from a library of recipes, create your recipe, or import an existing BeerXML recipe" and wonder what this "beer editor" was? I actually emailed them back, and Ryan got back to me saying "I assume you mean the freestyle packs?" I then said, "well, I know what freestyle packs are, but 'beer editor with a library of recipes' sounds like something different." So, anyhow, I got my hopes up that there was a big "library of recipes" or other tool separate from the freestyle packs, but I guess not. The freestyle packs don't really offer enough for me, but I guess that's why you guys are excited about this new opportunity to use your own ingredients. I'm not sure I have enough time or energy for that right now.

Next question (unrelated). Last night, I was racking my Vanilla in Yo Rye to bottles and something got stopped-up after filling the first bottle about half way. So, I canceled out, removed both posts of the keg, cleaned them well, started again, and still nothing moved. So, my next best idea was to run a quick "first rinse" to see if maybe the attachments or air hoses or something else was to blame. Fortunately, that did the job! However, as I was filling the first few bottles, I realized there was a gurgling sound coming from the step filter, because I had accidentally left the water in there from the rinse I just did! I quickly dumped that and then proceeded, but now I'm really worried that I introduced that water into my keg while racking to the bottles. When racking, is it pulling air from the step filter to push to the keg? Did I just ruin my whole brew during the bottling/carbing stage by potentially pulling some water into it?

Thanks!

 

[jrb03]

Yes

Did anyone read this part in the emails "Use our Beer Editor and choose from a library of recipes, create your recipe, or import an existing BeerXML recipe" and wonder what this "beer editor" was? I actually emailed them back, and Ryan got back to me saying "I assume you mean the freestyle packs?" I then said, "well, I know what freestyle packs are, but 'beer editor with a library of recipes' sounds like something different." So, anyhow, I got my hopes up that there was a big "library of recipes" or other tool separate from the freestyle packs, but I guess not. The freestyle packs don't really offer enough for me, but I guess that's why you guys are excited about this new opportunity to use your own ingredients. I'm not sure I have enough time or energy for that right now.

Next question (unrelated). Last night, I was racking my Vanilla in Yo Rye to bottles and something got stopped-up after filling the first bottle about half way. So, I canceled out, removed both posts of the keg, cleaned them well, started again, and still nothing moved. So, my next best idea was to run a quick "first rinse" to see if maybe the attachments or air hoses or something else was to blame. Fortunately, that did the job! However, as I was filling the first few bottles, I realized there was a gurgling sound coming from the step filter, because I had accidentally left the water in there from the rinse I just did! I quickly dumped that and then proceeded, but now I'm really worried that I introduced that water into my keg while racking to the bottles. When racking, is it pulling air from the step filter to push to the keg? Did I just ruin my whole brew during the bottling/carbing stage by potentially pulling some water into it?

Thanks!

yes, it pulls in air from the step filter to push for racking. It’s VERY low pressure, pump runs minimum speed. If you caught it quick you probably didn’t get any water in. Don’t worry even if you did it will be fine.

 

[BrewingBrian]

Are you guys using dishwasher pods in your keg to run the deep clean? I used the free sample one that came with my Pico Pro and am wondering if I should buy more of the same. Thanks!

 

[jrb03]

Are you guys using dishwasher pods in your keg to run the deep clean? I used the free sample one that came with my Pico Pro and am wondering if I should buy more of the same. Thanks!

Yes, they are the best thing you can use, the regular Finish powerballs.

 

[Lax coach]

Are you guys using dishwasher pods in your keg to run the deep clean? I used the free sample one that came with my Pico Pro and am wondering if I should buy more of the same. Thanks!

I've used both the zymatic cleaning tablets, as well as method dishwasher tabs. The latter is the pink grapefruit scented, but I haven't noticed any flavors/aromas sticking around afterwards. Both work just fine.

 

[jrb03]

I've used both the zymatic cleaning tablets, as well as method dishwasher tabs. The latter is the pink grapefruit scented, but I haven't noticed any flavors/aromas sticking around afterwards. Both work just fine.

I can tell you from owning a Z that the zymatic tabs are horrible. You can run a deep clean with a Z tab that looks clean, followed by a deep clean with the powerball and get tons of gunk out. There’s a reason they recommend the power balls and ship one with each Z and Pico unit.

 

[Ewelady]

Years ago I brewed but never kegged only bottled. Now that I have used kegs I will never go back except for special occasions where I want to take bottles somewhere.

My question, how often do you change the seals/washers on the keg posts and the tubes? I've brewed over 50 times now and I have an assortment of kegs but I try to rotate them, some are strictly serving some I use just for brewing. No leaks so far but I think I should get prepared. Thanks!

 

[jrb03]

Years ago I brewed but never kegged only bottled. Now that I have used kegs I will never go back except for special occasions where I want to take bottles somewhere.

My question, how often do you change the seals/washers on the keg posts and the tubes? I've brewed over 50 times now and I have an assortment of kegs but I try to rotate them, some are strictly serving some I use just for brewing. No leaks so far but I think I should get prepared. Thanks!

I keep a keg oring replacement set on hand, you can find them at homebrewing shops and online. Kegging for 10 years and can’t think of more than 2 or 3 I’ve ever changed. Good to have ready when you need though.

 

[Ewelady]

I keep a keg oring replacement set on hand, you can find them at homebrewing shops and online. Kegging for 10 years and can’t think of more than 2 or 3 I’ve ever changed. Good to have ready when you need though.

Thanks JRB, I will get a set to have on hand. Just didn't think they would last this long. Didn't think my little tank of CO2 would last this long either. Took it in last week for a refill and he nicely told me I still had half tank! And then he showed me how to read the code/tare weight on the tank. Then he tried to get an invitation over to my house to drink beer!

 

[jrb03]

I have found over the years co2 refill guys love to find out your using it for beer. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been offered free refill for a growler!

Thanks JRB, I will get a set to have on hand. Just didn't think they would last this long. Didn't think my little tank of CO2 would last this long either. Took it in last week for a refill and he nicely told me I still had half tank! And then he showed me how to read the code/tare weight on the tank. Then he tried to get an invitation over to my house to drink beer!

e found th

 

[bwible]

I see the picobrew has you fermenting in one of the kegs, then transferring to another keg by co2 or using the unit. How are you not transferring the yeast off the bottom to your secondary doing this? Do their kegs not use a draw tube to pull off the bottom like regular corny kegs?

I don’t like that this system gives you two kegs and essentially ties them both up for each batch you brew. It looks like you are always fermenting in one and you always need one empty to transfer to.

I looked at this system and noted it’s small capacity. Although that’s great for some people. Ingredient packs are very costly for the amount of beer coming out of this machine. And you cannot make your own recipes and insert your own ingredients. They let you ‘design’ your own, but you still have to order from them and they are still expensive. And it seems like the ingredient selection is limited to American hops. When I looked, Kent Goldings or Fuggle were not even options. And it showed me no yeast except Safale US-05.

Far as RFID tags, that is the reason I refuse to buy a Keurig 2.0 and be trapped into using only their K-cups.

Low capacity, high cost, low flexibility, minimal choices and few options. Why would anybody pay $600 for this machine? I can make alot more beer much cheaper without spending $600 and another $300+ just to have free kegs.

 

[jrb03]

I see the picobrew has you fermenting in one of the kegs, then transferring to another keg by co2 or using the unit. How are you not transferring the yeast off the bottom to your secondary doing this? Do their kegs not use a draw tube to pull off the bottom like regular corny kegs?

I don’t like that this system gives you two kegs and essentially ties them both up for each batch you brew. It looks like you are always fermenting in one and you always need one empty to transfer to.

I looked at this system and noted it’s small capacity. Although that’s great for some people. Ingredient packs are very costly for the amount of beer coming out of this machine. And you cannot make your own recipes and insert your own ingredients. They let you ‘design’ your own, but you still have to order from them and they are still expensive. And it seems like the ingredient selection is limited to American hops. When I looked, Kent Goldings or Fuggle were not even options. And it showed me no yeast except Safale US-05.

Far as RFID tags, that is the reason I refuse to buy a Keurig 2.0 and be trapped into using only their K-cups.

Low capacity, high cost, low flexibility, minimal choices and few options. Why would anybody pay $600 for this machine? I can make alot more beer much cheaper without spending $600 and another $300+ just to have free kegs.

Move along then.

 

[DrSafety]

I was going to refut everything that was wrong in the post from bwible here but jrb but it much more succinctly. Move on!!

 

[Lbarouf]

Years ago I brewed but never kegged only bottled. Now that I have used kegs I will never go back except for special occasions where I want to take bottles somewhere.

My question, how often do you change the seals/washers on the keg posts and the tubes? I've brewed over 50 times now and I have an assortment of kegs but I try to rotate them, some are strictly serving some I use just for brewing. No leaks so far but I think I should get prepared. Thanks!

Do you lube? I find that when you use keg lube, the seal is well made and rubbing is lower. On higher friction seals (o-rings), I see them degrading quickly. i found on amazon a supplier that carries good, red ones. I choose silicone o-rings, with a rated durometer, it's the hardness that makes them not squeeze easily. You want 70 or higher. If they don't rate them, I move along. They make them black as well, I just prefer red so this way I know which one have been replaced. Hope this helps.

 

[Lbarouf]

I see the picobrew has you fermenting in one of the kegs, then transferring to another keg by co2 or using the unit. How are you not transferring the yeast off the bottom to your secondary doing this? Do their kegs not use a draw tube to pull off the bottom like regular corny kegs?

I don’t like that this system gives you two kegs and essentially ties them both up for each batch you brew. It looks like you are always fermenting in one and you always need one empty to transfer to.

I looked at this system and noted it’s small capacity. Although that’s great for some people. Ingredient packs are very costly for the amount of beer coming out of this machine. And you cannot make your own recipes and insert your own ingredients. They let you ‘design’ your own, but you still have to order from them and they are still expensive. And it seems like the ingredient selection is limited to American hops. When I looked, Kent Goldings or Fuggle were not even options. And it showed me no yeast except Safale US-05.

Far as RFID tags, that is the reason I refuse to buy a Keurig 2.0 and be trapped into using only their K-cups.

Low capacity, high cost, low flexibility, minimal choices and few options. Why would anybody pay $600 for this machine? I can make alot more beer much cheaper without spending $600 and another $300+ just to have free kegs.

While I see why you may think this, I am puzzled why you take the time to state this in here. You may think we "missed" this. We all figured it out, and still prefer at times this method. To each their own.

 

[Mike Howard]

An update on my Pico...
If you have a problem with your PicoBrew S, Pro, C, Zymatic or Z, I hope that you get Kevin to help you with it.
Kevin was very patient with me, and thats saying a LOT! I am not exactly the easiest person to get along with, but Kevin was diplomatic as all get out!
A new unit will be shipped out early next week. I did not even need to use the phone numbers that I don't have. (wink wink)

So a serious shout out to Kevin!


Pete

You must not deal with Kevin very often. He has the worst customer relations attitude I've ever dealt with. The only way you are going to get Kevin to help you is if you stroke his ego and fawn all over him. However, if you actually know something about engineering and/or brewing and you question anything he says, look out, because home boy will freak all over you. Want to verify it, ask him about why they use a pump rated at 140 F in a system that regularly sees +200 F.

 

[RampantOctopus]

Just wanted to say hi as I catch up on 57 pages of posts here. I just got my Pico C from woot and made my first batch (Redcon, now fermenting) having taken time off from the hobby due to the birth of my first kid... nearly four years ago... Now I've got two kids and I'm happy to be returning to the hobby; that is, with a little help from Picobrew. I'm pretty excited about this machine. I already ordered a second brew keg, serving keg, and picoferm so I can make more beer; I'm also eyeing the pro-upgrade as a way to get my hands on a small keg that I don't have to drink all at once.

Anyhow, I just want to say thanks to all of you who are posting all this awesome info and advice. I've got strong desires to hack my system already, but even as-is, this is an excellent piece of kit. Just wondering a few things:

1. Is there a sticky or anything like that here that has links to key posts? Tracks the status of Picobrew's decisions regarding the BYO kits etc?

2. From what I gather, no one has cracked the code on the RFID front, correct? Has anyone tried to brew while offline? Can you? Would that be a way to fool their system? (Obviously giving up the online tracking, but whatever...)

3. The pro-upgrade keg-- if I went there, how long do you think the beer would stay good? Is it truly a proper keg or do their valves let in more air?

Ok, I know I just asked a lot of questions for a new guy-- and I'm sure many of these questions have been covered before-- so mostly, consider this a very wordy hello, and if it spurs any conversation, I'll be thrilled to see what you guys have to say!

Thanks!

 

[Lax coach]

3. The pro-upgrade keg-- if I went there, how long do you think the beer would stay good? Is it truly a proper keg or do their valves let in more air?

The pro kegs are legit kegs that use the same exact poppets, posts, and lids as 5G cornies. It's actually identical to this Kegco model except the Pico ones come with an additional, red blow-off valve with a weaker spring, that is used for pressure fermentation; on top of the standard gray one.

If you purge the keg with CO2 before filling, the beer should last quite a long time. In roughly a year, I've only had one leak when I didn't seat the lid properly. Otherwise they hold pressure indefinitely.

I went sort of the opposite route as you, buying an original Pico/S, then adding the Pro Upgrade and another ball-lock keg to get rid of the stupid serving keg. Then added the couplers and two C kegs. Now I brew and ferment in the C kegs, then transfer to the ball-lock kegs to carbonate and serve. Works really well.