Category Archives: Fermentation

Back in Stock, Volatile… Hop Bong for Kegland FermZilla + Hands on Review!

kegland fermzilla hop bong

Named purely on its looks and not its function. The Hop Bong is a versatile pressurizable tri-clamp accessory, capable of not only dry hopping oxygen purged hops into fermenters, but also as an inline carbonation/oxygenation accessory.

This is a completely new pressure pack for the basic FermZilla Tri-Conical and All Rounder Fermenters with the new 2″ Tri-Clover Adapted Pressure Lid.

Hop Pellet Capacity: 150–180g (5.2–6.3 oz)

Kit Includes:

  • FermZilla 2″ T.C. Pressure Lid Starter Kit
  • 2″ Hop Bong
  • 2″ FermZilla Tri-Conical Butterfly Valve
  • Floating Dip Tube with Filter Attachment
  • Red PRV & PCO1881 Cap Combo
  • Yellow Ball Lock Cap
  • (2) Red Ball Lock Caps
  • (2) 2″ Tri-Clamps
  • (2) 2″ Silicone T.C. Gaskets
  • KegLand Part Number: KB10897

Hop Bong Pressure Pack for FermZilla – 2 in. FE205

This is also available in an upgrade kit version for users that already own the FermZilla pressure pack…

Hop Bong Upgrade Kit for FermZilla – 2 in. FE206

Back In Stock… These have gone in and out of stock since we first introduced them. As of this posting, both versions of this are back in stock. Check product pages for current availability.

Learn More! Hands on Review: Kegland Hop Bong

FermZilla Reviews!

MORE MoreBeer Deals!…

Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check the product page for current price, description and availability.

Hands on Review: BouncerMD Inline Beer Filter

This review is by Homebrew Finds Contributor Brad Probert.  Brad is an engineer, expert homebrewer and experienced reviewer.  Grab a link to Brad’s website at the end of this review.

BouncerMD “Mac Daddy” Inline Filter

As popular as unfiltered beer is right now, there are still a lot of times in the brewing process when you want to filter your in-process beer to some degree. For me, it’s hop trub when transferring from the kettle to the fermentor. Dry hopping can also get you unwanted debris when transferring into your keg. You’ve got process options like whirlpooling or gear additions like bazooka screens for inside your kettle. The Bouncer filter is another option you can add to your toolbox.

Course filter on the left, Fine filter on the right

The Bouncer filter is like a miniature version of a home water filter. There’s a plastic housing that has inlet and outlet ports, and a clear plastic body that holds the stainless mesh filter screen and screws onto the main housing. The filter screen is made of stainless steel and nylon, and comes in two different mesh sizes. The coarse filter is 20 squares per inch (915 microns), and the fine filter is 50 squares per inch (305 microns).

The Bouncer itself also comes in two sizes- Normal and Mac Daddy. The Normal size comes with barbed fittings to hook up your 3/8” ID transfer hose. The Mac Daddy comes with two sets of fittings- one for 3/8” ID hose and the other 1/2″ ID hose so you can select whatever size matches your siphon or brew kettle valve. The larger Mac Daddy filter also gives you 224% more filter surface area than the base model.

The filter unit is rated for temperatures up to 150F. That means it’s good post-chilling, but not suitable for the hot inlet side into a plate chiller for example. Another creative use of the filter is as a Randall to infuse hops or other ingredient flavors into your beer when serving. More on that in my hands on trial below.

Continue reading

Inkbird Inkbird WiFi Thermometer Hygrometer [Monitor Kegerator & Fermentation Temps] – $22.49 w/25% off coupon

INKBIRD WiFi Thermometer Hygrometer Monitor, Smart Temperature Humidity Sensor IBS-TH3 with App Notification Alert, 1 Year Data Storage Export, Remote Monitor for Greenhouse Wine Cellar Baby RoomInkbird WiFi Thermometer and Hygrometer

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • 🌡🌡【Smart WiFi Control】It can be connected through 2.4GHz WiFi(5G WiFi is not supported, no gateway required), and it is easy to connect, no matter where you are, the mobile phone can be monitored remotely; which supports connecting multiple mobile phones, and conversely, a mobile phone can also read multiple sensors.
  • 🌡🌡【Data Storage & Export】Built-in temperature and humidity sensors, data is stored on the server and supports up to 1 year of historical data acquisition.
  • 🌡🌡【Smart Alert Function】The INKBIRD App supports charts, accuracy calibration, is easy to navigate, temperature alarm notification (alarm supports remote alarm, app information notification, low battery reminder), data export, and recording time intervals can be set, do not support built-in magnets, AAA battery*3 (not included).
  • 🌡🌡【Temperature humidity range and accuracy】Temperature range: -20℃~60℃ (-4℉~140℉); support higher temperature detection accuracy: ±0.3℃/±0.5℉; humidity range: 0%RH-99%RH; humidity Detection accuracy: ±3%RH. Calibration can be performed in the INKBIRD APP.
  • 🌡🌡【Easy to Place】The wifi temperature and humidity monitor's design fits in the palm of your hand, and with the lanyard holes design, it's enough to fit in potted plants, baby rooms, wine cellars, reptile vivariums, and other small spaces, not waterproof(not recommended for use in the refrigerator and freezer), meets your needs for any corner.

 

Possible uses include monitoring kegerator temperatures, beer fridge temperatures and fermentation chamber/area temperatures.

This has a hygrometer function as well.  That shows % relative humidity and could be handy for judging whether your Eva Dry (or similar) needs recharged for the purpose of handling excess kegerator and fermentation chamber wetness.  See: Damp Kegerator? Fix Kegerator Condensation

3/17 5:30 PM Central: This is selling for $29.99.  Apply the 25% off coupon on the product page and the price drops to $22.49 at checkout. Shipping is also free to many US addresses with Prime Membership [Try Prime for Free] or a qualifying order. Prices and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

INKBIRD WiFi Thermometer Hygrometer Monitor, Smart Temperature Humidity Sensor IBS-TH3 with App Notification Alert, 1 Year Data Storage Export, Remote Monitor for Greenhouse Wine Cellar Baby Room– note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

THREE x Safale US-05 Yeast – back at $10.49, $3.50 each + free prime ship

Fermentis SafAle US-05 Beer/Ale Yeast - Pack of 3 - With North Mountain Supply Freshness Guarantee

As of this posting, these are selling for $10.49. Shipping is also free to many US addresses with Prime Membership [Try Prime for Free] or a qualifying orderPrices and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

North Mountain Supply – FT-05-3 Fermentis SafAle US-05 Beer/Ale Yeast – Pack of 3 – Fresh Yeast – note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

12 for $35.96!

Fermentis Safale US-05 - 12 Pack

As of this posting, these are selling for $35.96 or just $3 each. Shipping is also free to many US addressesPrices and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

Fermentis Safale US-05 – 12 Pack – note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

More Safale US-05 Offerings…

Continue reading

Luxbird Waterproof Heating Mat [Fermentation Temp Control] – $12.74 on Lightning Deals

LUXBIRD Durable Waterproof Seedling Heating Mat 10”x 20.75” Warm Hydroponic Heating Pad for Indoor Plants Germination, IP67, MET Standard, LB-HM21W

LUXBIRD Durable Waterproof Seedling Heating Mat 10”x 20.75” Warm Hydroponic Heating Pad for Indoor Plants Germination, IP67, MET Standard, LB-HM21W

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • [Maintain An Optimal Temperature] The LUXBIRD heating mat can raise the temperature of the root area to 50℉-68℉ (10℃~20 ℃) above the ambient temperature and produce even and stable warmth to accelerate plant rooting and germination.
  • [IP67 Waterproof Rate] It adopts durable PVC material and features an IP67 waterproof rating design, making it dust proof, splash proof, and easy to clean. With its flexibility, it is flexible for easy storage.
  • [Low-Power Consumption] The only 21 watts of power consumption makes it more efficient than other heating mats. And it is ideal for use with general seed trays because of its perfect size, 20.75 x 10 Inches.
  • [Must-Have for Indoor Planting] Gently warming the soil can promote faster plant generation and growth into strong and healthy seedlings. With the help of a heating mat, we can harvest heat-loving vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and pumpkins with a higher success rate.
  • [Wide Range of Applications] Not only for seedlings, but this heating mat can also be essential for reptiles and pet fishes. It can use with a terrarium/fish tank/reptile container and help us maintain an optimal temperature for our pets.

 

3/17 11 AM Central: This is discounted to $12.74 as an Amazon Lightning Deal. Some items are available in multiple variations, check each for Lightning Deal eligibility and pricing. Lightning Deals are limited time and quantity deals and can change quickly. Check product page for current info – More About Prices

LUXBIRD Durable Waterproof Seedling Heating Mat 10”x 20.75” Warm Hydroponic Heating Pad for Indoor Plants Germination, IP67, MET Standard, LB-HM21W – note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Also: Maintaining Fermentation Temps in Colder Weather

Continue reading

6 x White Labs Servomyces Yeast Nutrient from MoreBeer – $9.99 + Free Ship Eligible, Limited Availability

Servomyces Yeast Nutrient

6 x Servomyces from MoreBeer

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

Add servomyces to your beer to increase yeast health because healthy yeast make better tasting beer. Other benefits include a decrease in fermentation time and increased alcohol potential. Servomyces stimulates the uptake of maltose which results in drier beer with higher alcohol yields. It is made by saturating beer yeast with zinc and then drying it. Zinc is a missing nutrient in wort and is more readily absorbed from dead yeast cells than by adding it directly as a mineral. Originally available only to professional brewers, this wonderful yeast nutrient is now to the homebrewing community, thanks to White Labs and Lallemand. Since it’s introduction, we have been after White Labs to make a smaller, more easy-to-use version of the product. It wasn’t until our very own Shea Comfort came up with the capsule idea that they were able to move forward and deliver this “super food” to us! Olin Schultz of MoreBeer did an intial side-by-side trial batch using “Servo” and found the beer with servo started faster, fermented quicker, and finished 1 gravity point less than the control batch. While it is not a cure-all pill for your brew, it offers the serious home brewer an easy, effective way to help ensure yeast health. Servomyces was developed in Germany at the Weihenstephan brewing school and the Munich University, so of course it conforms to the German Purity Law! Contains 6 capsules good for 5 gallons of wort each. Add Servo in the last 10 minutes of the boil. If your ferment does not require a boil ( as in a mead), open the capsule and add the Servomyces directly.


 

Limited Availability Deal of the Day: As of this posting, this is marked down to $9.99 as a MoreBeer Deal of the DayShipping is also free to addresses in the contiguous US with most $59 Orders. Availability: This is available today only, while supplies last. Quantities are limited. Check the MoreBeer’s Deal of the Day to check today’s offering.

Product Description – Here – Use coupon code BEERDEAL to get this discount.

Servomyces AD319

Easy Filler Item….  If you’re looking for a filler item to help you qualify for free shipping, consider grabbing some PBW

More Fermentation Related!

MORE MoreBeer Deals!…


Inkbird ITC-308 WiFi Digital Dual Stage Temp Controller – $35 on Lightning Deals

ITC-308 Dual Stage, Pre-Wired Digital Temperature Controller with WI-FI by Inkbird

ITC-308 Dual Stage, Pre-Wired Digital Temperature Controller with WI-FI by Inkbird

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • 👍👍【Android & IOS WIFI App】WIFI APP - WIFI smart controller supports both IOS & Android. WIFI connection supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band with free “INKBIRD” APP to control the temperature remotely.
  • 👍👍【Dual Relay Output】Dual relay - able to power refrigeration and heating equipment as conditions change.
  • 👍👍【High/Low Temperature Alarm】 Set High/Low temperature alarm when the temperature is over or under preset temperature or the sensor experiences a malfunction.
  • 👍👍【Convenient Design】Plug-n-play, easy to use. Supports ℃/℉reading and Temperature calibration.
  • 👍👍【1100W Max Output】Maximum output load: 1100W(110V).【Safety】Maximum output load: 1100W(110V). Customize temperature and compressor delay, protecting your refrigeration/heating equipment.

 

This controller can control both a heating and cooling device.  Alternatively, it can control a heating or a cooling device.

In my opinion the original ITC-308 was and is a game changer as far as homebrew temp controllers.  In comparison to available controllers available at the time the ITC-308 was released, it offered loads more features, including dual stage control, for a fraction of the price.  Game changer!  The addition of Wi-Fi control and monitoring to this great controller has made a great temp controller even better.  Check out our Hands on Review of the ITC-308.  That includes a section on the WiFi version.

As of this update, this is set to be discounted as an Amazon Lightning Deal starting at about 11:25 AM Central on 3/17. Some items are available in multiple variations, check each for Lightning Deal eligibility and pricing. Lightning Deals are limited time and quantity deals and can change quickly. Check product page for current info – More About Prices

Inkbird WiFi ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller Thermostat Remote Monitoring Controlling Home Brewing Fermentation Breeding Incubation Greenhouse – note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Also: Yeast Starters & Fermentation | Kegerator Tips & Gear | Inkbird ITC308 Review

Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check the product page for current price, description and availability. prod:B07PVBG8K1 tag:itsapageamz

New Updates… Homebrew Yeast Deals!

Recent Amazon Finds

North Mountain Supply – FT-05-3 Fermentis SafAle US-05 Beer/Ale Yeast – Pack of 3 – Fresh Yeast – $10.49, $3.50 each, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Fermentis Safale US-05 – 12 Pack – $35.96, $3 each, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

WildBrew Philly Sour Yeast (Lallemand) – 11 g (Pack of 5) – $19.79, $3.96 each, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Fermentis Safale S-04 Multicolor (3 ct.11.5 g Packs) – $9.99, $3.33 each, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Fermentis SafAle BE-134 Beer/Ale Yeast – Pack of 1 – With North Mountain Supply Freshness Guarantee – $6.95 + free shipping to most US addresses, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Prices and availability can change quickly.  Check product page for current info – More About Prices

Continue reading

Hands on Review: FermZilla All Rounder Fermenter + Limited Time DEAL Ends Soon

Thank you to HBF Contributor Aaron Nord for this hands on review!  Aaron is an advanced award winning brewer, a long time reader and a serial tipster!


Limited Time Deal, Review Continues Below:

  • For a short time William’s Brewing is marking down 30L and 60L fermenters by 15% as part of a short sale.
  • No coupon code required, discount reflected on product pages.
  • Shipping is free or reasonably priced flat rate to addresses in the contiguous US depending on your order size for most items.

All Rounder Fermenters at William’s Brewing


FermZilla All Rounder

Fermenting under pressure has been a technique I have had my eye on for some time now and have felt the urge to experiment with it more and more lately. To me the most appealing benefit of pressurized fermentation is that at the end of fermentation the beer is fully carbonated and ready to drink (not accounting for beers that benefit from a period of conditioning). Other benefits include a potentially quicker fermentation, a higher retention of desirable aroma compounds that otherwise might be off gassed (e.g. hop aromas), and the ability to ferment at warmer temperatures without a high presence of unwanted esters.


Check Current Pricing & Availability, Review Continues Below:

Related: Hands on Review: Kegland Hop Bong


Continue reading

Refrigerator Freezer Thermometer with TWO Wireless Sensors – monitor kegerator & fermentation chamber temps – $14.69, best price + free prime ship

Refrigerator Thermometer

More Info
Highlighted Features
  • 🌡️【Temperature Range】The indoor/outdoor refrigerator thermometer wireless temperature range: Indoor -10℃~ 60℃ (14℉~ 140℉), Outdoor -40℃~ 60℃ (-40℉~140℉) and the transmission range is 100M/328ft(open area). You can use it in the fridge, freezer or outdoor, which provides safe food storage.
  • 🌡️【Audio Alarm】The wireless freezer thermometer Alarm console includes audible and visual alarms when temperature exceed your pre-set minimum and maximum alarm settings.
  • 🌡️【Easy to Read Display】The freezer thermometer has LCD screen with large digit.Records Min and Max temperature provides the historical temperatures readings. With this feature, you can easily monitor the temperature change of your refrigerator and provide double protection to your food safety.
  • 🌡️【Multiple Installtion Ways】The wireless thermometer with alarm is easy to install. The display unit can stand on the table, hang on the wall, magnet on the refrigerator. The wireless sensor can clip on door or hang on the wall.
  • 🌡️【Operate Easily】There are 6 function keys on the main unit and signal indicator on the transmitter, you just press the corresponding key to turn on/off the alarm, switch the Celsius or Fahrenheit and clear the MAX/MIN records.
  • ☎【GUARANTEE】You are fully covered by our lifetime WARRANTY and 60 DAYS RETURN GUARANTEE. If you aren’t 100% satisfied. Please feel free to contact with our customer support.

From HBF: Make sure the components you use are compatible and rated for your intended application.  Contact manufacturer with questions about suitability or a specific application.  Always read and follow manufacturer directions.

 

Thoughts from HBF… So, this has two wireless sensors along with an ambient thermometer that’s built into the main unit.  It also records minimum and maximum temps for each sensor.  You could use one sensor in your fermentation chamber and one sensor in your kegerator to monitor temperatures.  The min and max feature would also give you a great idea about how things are working.  As a bonus you also get all the same info for the ambient temp where the base is located.  Note that the sensors need to be within the stated range of this unit (or closer).

3/13 11:30 PM Central: This is on sale for just $14.69. That’s the best historical third party Amazon price I found, notwithstanding Lightning Deals or coupons. Shipping is also free to many US addresses with Prime Membership [Try Prime for Free] or a qualifying order. Prices and availability can change quickly Check product page for current info – More About Prices

(New Version) AMIR Refrigerator Thermometer, Wireless Indoor Outdoor Thermometer, Sensor Temperature Monitor with Audible Alarm Temperature Gauge for Freezer Kitchen Home (Battery not Included) – note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link