Some Yeast questions

[SonicGT]

Got a couple questions that I've read about somewhat but still kinda confused

1. I have read some people say when they get a stuck fermentation that they just put it onto a healthy yeast cake? What exactly does this mean? Is it that they have another beer that fermented fine and after bottling they just siphon the new beer right into that fermentor on top of the yeast thats left on the bottom? and if thats the case how does sanitization come into play, or is it ok since there wasn't alot of time for anything to get into it right after bottling?

2. Using liquid yeast and making a starter. I haven't used liquid yet, and have read when using liquid its always good to make a starter. Well ive read things that says to use some wort and let the yeast grow, well how do I do this before I've actually done the boil and have wort?

These may seem pretty obvious but for some reason maybe when I read the articles about these I just am missing a sentance or somethign that tends to confuse me a little. So thanks in advance

 

[Edcculus]

1. I have read some people say when they get a stuck fermentation that they just put it onto a healthy yeast cake? What exactly does this mean? Is it that they have another beer that fermented fine and after bottling they just siphon the new beer right into that fermentor on top of the yeast thats left on the bottom? and if thats the case how does sanitization come into play, or is it ok since there wasn't alot of time for anything to get into it right after bottling?

You pretty much have it. The original yeast crap out, so they siphon it onto a fresh cake from a beer they just took off. If you sanitize properly, put the lid/stopper back on, you don't have to worry about contamination. Just don't leave the yeast cake sitting around for hours.

2. Using liquid yeast and making a starter. I haven't used liquid yet, and have read when using liquid its always good to make a starter. Well ive read things that says to use some wort and let the yeast grow, well how do I do this before I've actually done the boil and have wort?

People usually buy bags of DME (dry malt extract). Your homebrew store should carry it. I use the lightest stuff I can get. Measure a prescribed amount of the extract, mix with water and boil.

 

[SonicGT]

Thanks for the quick response, straight and to the point for my simple mind to understand, lol. Glad I was on the right track of thinking just wanted confirmation

 

[osagedr]

Great info on starters:

http://www.mrmalty.com/starter_faq.htm