small batches in a big carboy??

[amcclai7]

I like to do small experimental batches sometimes for a variety of reasons. I was just wondering if it was ok to put 2-3 gallons of wort in a 6 gallon glass carboy? I know the developing CO2 will push out the O2 during primary fermentation but will it still be ok with that much headspace?

 

[Bensiff]

As long as you maintain a good tight seal on your airlock and are doing stuff that doesn't involve long term aging you are fine.

 

[amcclai7]

Thanks!

 

[mtnagel]

I've done between 2.5 - 3.5 gallon batches in a 6.5 gal fermentation bucket with no issues.

 

[wilserbrewer]

I would say it's fine as well, I just wouldn't leave it in the carboy for a long time...say 2 weeks max

 

[bdknuc2]

I do 2.5 gallon batches in my apartment and they are always fine in a 5 gallon carboy. I have never kept anything in the primary for longer than two weeks but it works just fine!

 

[RM-MN]

I would say it's fine as well, I just wouldn't leave it in the carboy for a long time...say 2 weeks max

Why not? Once the fermentation kicks off the top of the carboy will be filled with CO2. The opening at the top is rather small and there is an airlock there too so where will the CO2 go? That brew should be fine in that carboy for months.

 

[LovesIPA]

Why not? Once the fermentation kicks off the top of the carboy will be filled with CO2. The opening at the top is rather small and there is an airlock there too so where will the CO2 go? That brew should be fine in that carboy for months.

I was thinking that as well. There shouldn't be a limit on carboy time because it's a smaller batch.

 

[mtnagel]

One of my 2.5 gal batches in a 6.5 gal bucket was in primary for 5 weeks and then transferred to secondary for 5 weeks. We went on a 3 week vacation during the primary, so I purposed planned a beer that could sit in primary for awhile. It is bottled and I plan to drink one soon so I'll let you know if it sucks - but I'm assuming it will be just fine

 

[amcclai7]

Thanks for all the input!

 

[Hello]

As others have said, it should be fine. Secondary is where you want to limit headspace.