Star san

[Radler]

Are there any Star San experts out there who can tell me why the solution stays clear for only about 30 minutes after I mix the star san and water. I have read that it is only effective as long as it stays clear so I have about 30 minutes to sanitize carboys, 50 bottles, etc. There must bwe something I can do. my tap water here has a fairly high pH if that means anything. Would like to bottle and brew tomorrow, so if anybody knows anything...

 

[user 4295]

I have heard about the cloudy thing too. I think it has something to do with the mineral content of the water being used. The only thing that need concern you about the effectivness of Star-San, is maintaining a pH of 3 or less. I have a batch that I have been using for more than 4 weeks. I have some pH sample strips and the pH is still below 3. Even if the solution rises above 3, you can just "sweeten" it up by adding some more concentrate to drive the pH back down below 3. These are all facts obtained from an email I received back from the owner of Five Star Chemicals, the maker of Star-San. Remember also, don't fear the foam, it is your friend.

John

 

[Rhoobarb]

There was a great, lengthy interview with the owner/president of Five Star Chemical - the maker of Star-San - on The Brewing Network awhile back. IIRC, he addresses that issue sometime during that interview.

You can download that show here!

 

[budbo]

I have never worried about clear.. I test Starsan by agitating it, if it makes bubbles it's stiull good