Testing Gravity

[unionrdr]

If the recipe lists the OG & FG (usually as estimates), then you can use those numbers to get an estimated ABV%.

 

[mattdee1]

Is there an average final gravity? I always forget to take the original gravity measure, so I assume there is no point taking a final. But after reading this I'm wondering if, since I'm brewing extract recipes, there is some way to calculate what the FG should be when fermentation is done.

IMO it's still worth it to take a reading, just to see. For example, if you do the reading after 2-3 weeks and you see 1.030 on a basic 5.5ish %ABV pale ale, that says the fermentation probably stalled out for some reason. On the other hand if the reading is 1.010 or so after 2-3 weeks, then you can be reasonably certain that it's done.

I suppose if you see a krausen ring in the fermentor 2-3 inches above the beer, that is evidence enough, but for the small effort and cost of the sample, why not just do it.

 

[unionrdr]

Yeah, I'd rather test it to be sure myself...hydrometers are like 6 bucks these days.

 

[Anthonie]

So, I brewed a 3 gallon IPA With 4 lbs extra light DME and 2.4 ounces of citra hops. I did not take the OG but the FG tonight was 1.010. Would this be considered finished or should I wait and do another reading?

 

[Craftfan]

So, I brewed a 3 gallon IPA With 4 lbs extra light DME and 2.4 ounces of citra hops. I did not take the OG but the FG tonight was 1.010. Would this be considered finished or should I wait and do another reading?

This would have put you with an OG of around 1.059 and an ABV of 6.6%. It should be done. You can wait a day or two and do another reading of you like. I would feel safe throwing it in a bottle at that FG.

 

[Anthonie]

Thanks for the help. Next time I'll remember to get the OG

 

[Tactical-Brewer]

Ok, so, maybe stupid question; sanitize your hydro and then just test fg in the actual fermenter? As in, in the 5 gallon bucket. That is, if you don't mind not tasting the fg sample? At least that's how I've done it prior to bottling.

 

[Anthonie]

I use a glass vessle and take enough out to fill a test tube. Since the vessle has a narrow neck I use a turkey Baster. With a bucket you could use a santitized measuring cup and fill a tube to test the FG. As far as I know testing in the bucket will give you a false reading.