Temprature

[BBoyle2886]

Hi so I'm brand new at brewing and I have a Mr. Beer brew kit and have a question about temperature

I know that the temp threw out the brewing proses is important, I don't have great control over the temp in my apt. I can place the batch in a room that I can keep at 68f threw out the day but at night it drops to 62f-65f

1. How much will this effect the fermentation proses?
2. Should I extend the fermentations proses a week or so to make up for the cold temp?

 

[flars]

Fermentation produces heat, so your day time temperature may be to high and the night time temperature ideal. High fermentation temperatures can produce fusel alcohols.

The second worst scenario is the fermenting wort experiencing temperature swings. This can cause the yeast to drop out early, leaving a high FG.

Your best option may to place the fermentor in a tub of water, and maintain a water temperature of 66°F. May take a plastic soda bottle or two, filled with ice, during the day to keep the temperature at a constant level. A large tub of water will maintain an even temperature easier than a small tub. Of course, the size of the tub depends on the space available.

 

[JustLooking]

Between the valve and no airlock, putting a Mr Beer fermenter in a tub of water my not be the best thing.

 

[flars]

I did not consider the valve location on a MR Beer. You can cool the fermentor during the day by having a wet towel laying over the fermentor, with a fan blowing on it to increase the evaporative, and cooling rate. Both ends of the towel in trays of water will aid in keeping it wet.

 

[BBoyle2886]

Fermentation produces heat, so your day time temperature may be to high and the night time temperature ideal. High fermentation temperatures can produce fusel alcohols.

The second worst scenario is the fermenting wort experiencing temperature swings. This can cause the yeast to drop out early, leaving a high FG.

Your best option may to place the fermentor in a tub of water, and maintain a water temperature of 66°F. May take a plastic soda bottle or two, filled with ice, during the day to keep the temperature at a constant level. A large tub of water will maintain an even temperature easier than a small tub. Of course, the size of the tub depends on the space available.

I can keep the room around 62f all day/night, would that be better?

 

[flars]

That would be ideal, if not to expensive. After the first week of fermentation you could allow the temperature to rise. It is the first few days of fermentation the set the flavors in the beer.
Good luck and happy brewing.