And (not to go too far off topic) because I've been doing a lot of thinking lately about how to simplify and improve my processes.
Currently I mash in a cooler using (using a bag to lauter), batch sparge. I then run the wort through a filter built into my funnel to remove all the grain particles that slipped through the bag. I've been doing this based on the notion that grain particles in the boil = bad beer. But I'm wondering if I could avoid that all together - stop batch sparging and stop filtering the wort. If I combine that with a slightly shorter boil and or mash (maybe 45m each) I'd be able to brew more days.
The other big thing on my mind is chilling. I'm a renter and the hose hookup in my backyard is ancient and rusting away so the only way I use my immersion chiller is through gravity pouring from a bucket. It takes a lot longer so I think I may add a chill wand into the equation and double team it... Chill wand + immersion chiller in the wort, whirlpooling, and adding some ice to the water that's moving through the chiller should get the job done quick.