Refractometer > hydrometer

[Brewing Clamper]

After calibrating my refractometer and hydrometer with the same DI water I still get a discrepancy in the results. On today's brew, I get 1.047 with the hydrometer and 1.044 with the refractometer. Any suggestions?

 

[mredge73]

Temperature differences?
Most Hydrometers are calibrated at a specific temperature (I think 65F)
While ATC refractometers will automatically compensate for temperature.
http://www.brewersfriend.com/hydrometer-temp/

 

[MichaelBrock]

I had this same issue (and apparently everyone does). You need to determine the correction factor to apply to your refractometer reading (in addition to calibrating). Checkout this post by ClaudiusB which explains it: https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f11/refractometer-319906/index5.html#post4020387

 

[tre9er]

Most hydrometers are calibrated at 58 or 60*. Usually they say on the device.

 

[Shockerengr]

Another question, are you reading in brix and multiplying by 4?

 

[H-ost]

If you had a brewer buddy you could borrow their hydrometer/refractometer whichever they have and see what it says.

 

[TimpanogosSlim]

Another question, are you reading in brix and multiplying by 4?

My refractometer's reticle is graduated in both brix and SG.

Not that i can vouch for it's accuracy. Just sayin.

 

[rico567]

My vote is for the temperature variable accounting for the difference. I would try to discern what the temperature correction would be for my hydrometer, and then I would just write off any remaining difference to margin of error between the two instruments. In my experience (and IMHO), three points of SG just ain't that big of a deal.

 

[TalkingGoats]

I have found my cheapo hydrometers are not very reliable. My current one measures 60* water at 1.003 and 100* water at 1.001. I would think there would be much bigger difference no?