BIAB second time around help

[polagon]

For this time I will follow to the best of my ability injac's BIABacus that he put together. In this it is suggesting no mash-out, what't the opinions of that?

[scotsloon]

As you are BIABing then there is no need for this step, this step is really designed for brewing using a grain bed for sparging so as to improve the sparge - it makes the grain bed more liquid.

[polagon]

As you are BIABing then there is no need for this step, this step is really designed for brewing using a grain bed for sparging so as to improve the sparge - it makes the grain bed more liquid.

Ah ok, got you.
Well batch #2 is in the FV and bubbling away, this time around I for example will be able to maintain a much more suitable temperature during the fermentation time, something I missed the first time around (first 2-3 days at least).
Overall it went well, and oh my god this time around it was so more relaxing and being able to control it all much better, knowing a bit more about what to do.

But one issue I have which I guess is quite common for us with electric stoves is to get the temperature up for the boil. Thinking in either in future scenarios to go for smaller batches, or maybe a portable induction hob? Such as, http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/slimline-indu ... wwodv2gEGQ

Also another question, what do you guys do to lower the mash temp if needed. Had difficulties getting it down from 67c to 66c at times?

[rpt]

That induction hob is only 2kW so you may struggle to do a full brew. 3kW ones are available but cost a lot more.

[alexlark]

Or if you are DIY savvy fit a 2.4kw kettle element. I done the upgrade to my pot a few months ago.

[polagon]

Or if you are DIY savvy fit a 2.4kw kettle element. I done the upgrade to my pot a few months ago.

Ah ok, I guess part of me would say yes but also taking in consideration I've got a steel pot it feels that project is above my experience.

[alexlark]

The kettle elements from The Home Brew Builder and Angel Homebrew have an actual kettle plug fitting on the back of them so no need to mess with electrics and makes for a really neat job.

viewtopic.php?f=6&t=73558&start=30#p769763

Done 2 brews with mine since converting from gas. Boils 30L no sweat.

[polagon]

The kettle elements from The Home Brew Builder and Angel Homebrew have an actual kettle plug fitting on the back of them so no need to mess with electrics and makes for a really neat job.

viewtopic.php?f=6&t=73558&start=30#p769763

Done 2 brews with mine since converting from gas. Boils 30L no sweat.

What did you boil in before that?

Thinking about it, might be worth looking into depending on how the wait now for my 3rd batch this weekend!

Had this complete and utter scandal with my 2nd batch, all went well during the day, numbers were on gravity readings were on the spot and temp for the fermentation as well, but then for no good reason my fv started leaking. Discovered it this morning before leaving for work. No idea why, but it seems like the tap part just started leaking, so a great batch is now completely wasted. Left for work feeling rather pissed off about this all in the morning, and still annoyed. But I guess one positive bit is that I now 'have to' do another batch on Sunday!

[alexlark]

Disaster!! I would hate that to happen. It happened to my mate and he had a Coopers Stout beer kit come through his kitchen ceiling! !

Before I fitted the element I used the pot on the wok burner on my hob but it was a bit weak. Still made good beer but took ages to come to the boil too. I'm so glad I fitted the kettle element. I know you can get kettle elements cheaper but these come with a steel lock nut, kettle lead and they're easy to fit and connect to the mains.

Only thing I would change about my setup is maybe a 50L pot. I do 20L batches and have to do a 2/4L sparge. My efficiency is around 75/80 so can't complain.

I now brew just outside my kitchen door so no need to worry about steam. Once the pot comes to the boil it is completely silent. It's nice to have a brewday where you only have to wait for the boil to finish and not keep checking the pot don't boil all over your cooker! Lol