As to sparging, I recommend batch sparging with 2 iterations. I get much better efficiency with 2 than 1 even if my mash tun is big enough to hold both.
I find this very intersting. My reopeated testing has found that I only get at most a 2 point increase with an additional sparge, which for me is not enough to hassle with. I wonder why there's such a difference.
I generally do not stir the mash either during mashing or sparging. With 1, I get about 65% efficiency and with 2, 75%. I imagine mixing could change the results quite a bit.
I don't stir either. With one sparge I average 83%.
Thank you much for the listed out replies.
Do you have any suggestions for a good pickup tubes that works well with keggles?
As for the pump, I think I have it setup correctly but might not be following the correct steps to get it running. Going to post in the equipment section to see if people can give me information.