When to raise fermentation temp?

[clarksc4]

I have 2.5 gal of barleywine, OG 1.105 that is at 1.05 and 5 gal IPA of 1.053 that is at 1.02. Both are in my basement, ambient 50*F and the fermometers read 59-61 for both. When is a good time to allow them to warm up to high 60 to finish off? I'm thinking the IPA is just about ready, but I may need to wait for BW to get below 1.040
The expected FG is 1.020 for BW and 1.015 for IPA

 

[flars]

How long has each been in the primary?

 

[clarksc4]

Both have been in primary 5 days

 

[flars]

After 5 days in the primary you could let the temperature rise. It is my personal preference to let the temperature rise naturally, but not more than 1° per day. To much of a temperature change could affect the yeasts final attenuation.

My method has been to gradually dismantle the swamp cooler to reduce the cooling effects. I can leave the carboys in my brew area by doing this.

Start by moving the fermentors to a 60° area and then to your living area. Avoid areas of direct heat.

 

[clarksc4]

Buckets aren't even in swamp cooler, peak ferm temp was 62. My basement is really cold. Only problem with having it not in the basement is I have two curious toddlers....

 

[flars]

Are plastic totes with aquarium heaters, the adjustable type, possible? Here in this small town only non-adjustable are available. Preset for 76°.

 

[MaxStout]

Only problem with having it not in the basement is I have two curious toddlers....

Put a tarp over it. That might keep out the curious kids.

 

[strangegreenman]

Put a tarp over it. That might keep out the curious kids.

This will not quite work out. Your "tarp" is their "blanket fort."

 

[MaxStout]

This will not quite work out. Your "tarp" is their "blanket fort."

Not if you put a bungee cord around it. I rather doubt the average toddler will have the strength and dexterity to unhook that.

 

[clarksc4]

Not if you put a bungee cord around it. I rather doubt the average toddler will have the strength and dexterity to unhook that.

I'm guessing you don't have kids. They CONSTANTLY surprise me with what they get into. Sometimes I actually have to think for a couple minutes to figure out how they got into something