Secondary, or primary only?

[Barnstormer]

So I've read some people prefer to use a secondary fermentation container because the trub may cause some off flavors. Others seem to think leaving it in the primary the entire time is the way to go because of a more complete fermentation and less chance of contamination.

I know this may start quite a debate, but which is "better?" What are some pros and cons to either. Is there a rule of thumb for how long to keep it in the secondary if you are using one?

 

[broadbill]

This has been debated to death. A search of past threads will give you more than enough information to decide on your own.

 

[IffyG]

It seems that these days most people avoid a secondary unless they have a compelling reason to use one (IE a huge amount of hops or adding fruit). I personally cold crash in primary after they reach FG, generally about 2 weeks after brewing and keg. Works out just fine for me, but YMMV.

 

[Barnstormer]

Thanks for the info. I don't keg yet, still in bottles. If I cold crash, is there still enough yeast in the beer for proper bottle conditioning?

 

[FoundersBrew]

Thanks for the info. I don't keg yet, still in bottles. If I cold crash, is there still enough yeast in the beer for proper bottle conditioning?

Yes.