Primary Fermenter Size

[MT_Keg]

I have been looking at various sites for a primary fermenter... Austin Homebrew has a 6 gallon fermenter (is this like a typical 6.5 gallon from my LHBS?). I have read that 6.5 gallons are recommended. But I also saw a 7.9 gallon. I plan on doing 5 gallon batches.

Thanks,

MT

 

[aiptasia]

6.5 will be just about perfect for most 5-6 gallon batches.

 

[Dr_Glover]

I agree that 6.5 is the way to go for a primary. If Austin Homebrew lists it as 6 gal, I wouldn't assume it is 6.5 but I'm not sure I completely understand your question.

 

[beergolf]

Looks like there are a couple of LHBS in Knoxville. I would just go to one of them and pick up a 6.5 gal. bucket. They are cheap.

 

[Conan]

I'm going to redundify the above sentiment. (haha. Funny sentence) 6.5 is plenty for 5 gallons, and the bucket is the way to go. They're easier to clean and to store. Kyle

 

[ajf]

I make 5g batches and almost always use a 6.5g fermenter. I also have some 6g carboys and a 7.9g bucket. If I use a 6g carboy, I usually need a blow off tube (which is a PITA). While the 7.9g bucket would work fine, I don't like using it because it takes up too much space in my fermentation freezer, and doesn't leave enough space for another primary which could cause me to run out of beer. I do use the 7.9g for wines however, and ferment in the basement.

-a.

 

[PastorofMuppets]

im new but for what its worth I have 6.5 glass carboys. Treat em right and they will be fermenting for generations. I know people break them but its easy enough to avoid. Milk crates and a dolly work wonders.

 

[MileHiBrewingSupplies]

Hi guys. Home brew supply stores normally carry carboys that are 5, 6, and 6.5 gallons. As others have said, a blow-off hose is sometimes necessary for all sizes, depending on batch size, yeast strain, fermentation temp, and other factors. Buckets are fine for awhile, but glass is inert and will not take on odors and is hard to scratch. You'll have to replace the buckets every now and then since they scratch easily (and harbor bacteria) and absorb odors. Glass is preferred not only because it lasts forever, but also because you can SEE the fermentation. It's really cool to see the yeast churning around but, more importantly, you can also tell how the fermentation is proceeding and when it's done. As for cleaning, a little PBW in hot water will clean 99% of the fermentation debris from your carboy!