Too Much Airspace??

[RedDragon]

I am brewing in five gallon batches and accidently purchased a six gallon carboy. Is that too much airspace thus causing corruption of my product?
Thanks.

 

[llazy_llama]

Nope, you're fine. Fermentation releases CO2, which protects the beer from air.

 

[carnevoodoo]

And gives you more headspace for krausen. I only use 6.5 gallon carboys. You'll be fine.

Edit: The 5 gallon size is really good for secondary and bulk aging, if you want to go that route. That's when less headspace is better.

 

[RedDragon]

Actually, I only use the carboys right now for secondary fermentation. Is that still ok or should I just use the five gallons carboy since the reduced headspace? Thanks.

 

[llazy_llama]

A 5 gallon carboy would be ideal, but you shouldn't have a problem with that headspace unless you're leaving it in there for a very long time.

 

[Indy418]

It should be ok. I once did a 4 gal. in a 5 gal. secondary and it came out fine, but you do risk infection.

One option--topping off with some boiled water. It will make your brew a little bit weaker but it should stave off the infection.