Topics

61

Equipment and Software / concerns about copper tubing

« on: December 19, 2010, 11:22:48 am »

I just made a counterflow wort chiller with some copper tubing that the wort will flow through.  In terms of sanitation should I be concerned about the potential corrosive effects of sanitation solution on the interior of the piping?  Will my usual routine of a weak chlorine bleach solution do?  If this is a concern how should I be sanitizing the piping prior to my next batch?

62

Equipment and Software / Counterflow chiller

« on: December 11, 2010, 08:04:40 pm »

Looking to build a counterflow chiller.  I like the idea of a cylinder model with PVC piping as the cylinder and copper tubing inside.  Does anyone have any basic blueprints for an easy to build model or other recommendations.  Looking forward to a fun project.

63

General Homebrew Discussion / Banana Taste

« on: December 09, 2010, 03:12:25 pm »

I brewed up a first attempt at a holiday winter ale and after a few days primary fermentation I made the switch to the secondary fermenter and out of curiosity gave the stuff a taste and there is a fairly distinct banana aroma and taste.  Not exactly what I was shooting for.  The only complication I can recall is during the first day of fermentation, the primary carboy overflowed a bit over the airlock with foam (unexpected 1st in my 6.5G carboy which normally handles 5 G fine without need for a blowout hose).  Can I expect the banana flavors to persist?  Is it worth even continuing to ferment and bottle or just bag it already down the drain?  Help for the newbie is appreciated.

64

Equipment and Software / Spigot

« on: December 03, 2010, 08:22:27 am »

I was looking to install a spigot on my aluminum brew pot.  Does anyone have any recommendations on the best place to acquire necessary materials, specifically the actual spigot?  Thanks.

65

Ingredients / Vanilla Beans

« on: December 02, 2010, 11:34:00 am »

I have a winter ale recipe calling for vanilla bean extract (I actually have beans on hand and thought I would give them a try).  Does anyone have any recs on how much to use and should they be added to the boil or the secondary fermenter.  I do not want too much of an overpowering vanilla flavor.  Thanks