Category Archives: Review Updates

Hands On Review: Inkbird ITC-308 Dual Stage Temperature Controller + Limited Time DEAL (Prime Exclusive)

Updated: July 26, 2024

Inkbird’s ITC-308 Digital Dual Stage Temperature Controller is a dual stage, pre-wired Digital Temperature Controller

The ITC-308 comes in the original version as well as an updated Wi-Fi enabled model. This review covers both editions of this controller.

Why a Temp Controller?

Temperature controllers, sometimes referred to as over-riding thermostats, can control devices like refrigerators, freezers and fermentation heating devices to provide a consistent temperature for your kegerator, fermentation chamber or brew system. They do this by monitoring the temperature and cycling on and off the device in question. Generally, you will set the device to full cooling or heating power and the temperature controller takes over from there.

Limited Time DEAL

For a limited time Amazon has both variations of these on sale and there’s a 20% off coupon

Prime Exclusive: As of this posting, this may be exclusively available to Amazon Prime Members. Amazon Prime has a lot of great benefits. Get a Free Trial of Amazon Prime. Shipping is also free for Prime Members. Check the product page for current price, description and availability.

Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller 2-Stage Outlet Thermostat Heating and Cooling Mode Carboy Homebrew Fermenter Greenhouse Terrarium 110V 10A 1100W – $25.20 w/stacking coupon

Inkbird WiFi ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller Thermostat Remote Monitoring Controlling Home Brewing Fermentation Breeding Incubation Greenhouse– $35.99 w/stacking coupon

Check Prices, Current Specs & Availability, Review Continues Below:

Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Inkbird WiFi ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Inkbird WiFi ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller Thermostat Remote Monitoring Controlling Home Brewing Fermentation Breeding Incubation Greenhouse

Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller 2-stage Outlet Thermostat Heating and Cooling Mode Carboy Homebrew Fermenter Greenhouse Terrarium 110V 10A.

Alternate Listings:

Inkbird WIFI Temperature Controller Reptile Freezer Thermostat ITC308 2.4GHz Digital Heating and Cooling Aquarium Heater Cooler Greenhouse Plug Outlet Probe Dual Stage 1100W 110V – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller Outlet Thermostat 2-Stage 1100W with Sensor Reptile Beer Brewing Kegs Fridge Cured Meat Breeding Growing – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Different listings or combos for the ITC-308 may be available – search Amazon for “Inkbird Digital Temperature Controller” – to see what variations may be available

Canada:

At MoreBeer:

Our ITC-308 Deal Pages:

These pages show our most recent deals for these great controllers

Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Dual Stage Temp Controller [Kegerator or Fermentation]… $25.20 w/Stacking Deals, Prime Exclusive

Inkbird ITC-308 WiFi Digital Dual Stage Temp Controller – $35.99 w/20% off Coupon

Dual vs Single Stage

Dual stage means that the ITC-308 can control both a heating and cooling device. Alternatively, it can control a heating or a cooling device. This controller displays in Fahrenheit and Centigrade. Dual Display shows both measured and set temperature.

Hands on Review Inkbird’s ITC-308 Temp Controller

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Hands on Review: BrewZilla Gen 4 All Grain Brewing System – TWO Deals + New Config Walkthrough

Updated: July 24, 2024

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.

Hands on Review BrewZilla Gen4

I’ve brewed on several different all-in-one units. Like any brew system, they each have their own strengths and weaknesses. I did a hands-on review of the Robobrew when it first came out in late 2016. It has since changed its name to BrewZilla and is on the 4th generation of the brew unit. As you’d expect with repeated generations, they’ve been able to focus on fixing deficiencies in their previous models and also introduce new features.

Limited Time Deals! Choose from Two

Save on 35L at William’s Brewing

For a short time William’s Brewing has the 35L Gen 4 on sale for $509.99
Shipping is free or reasonably priced flat rate to addresses in the contiguous US depending on your order size for most items.

Brewzilla 35 Liter Gen 4 110 volt

MoreBeer Summer Sale!

MoreBeer is discounting select products by up to 40% as part of a Summer Sale!
Shipping is free with a qualifying $59 order to many US addresses

MoreBeer’s Summer Sale!

The lineup includes two BrewZilla models.

New Config Walkthrough!

BrewZilla Gen 4 Temperature Control and Programming Tips and Tricks

The basic premise of an all-in-one brewing system is that your mash and boil kettle are in the

same vessel. So just like Brew In A Bag, after mashing, you pull the grains out and the wort stays behind to be boiled. They use electricity for heat, so they can be used outdoors where you can reach power or indoors where you have a venting system that can take care of all the steam you make during your boil.

BrewZilla Without Jacket

Stamped Volume Markings

Here are some basic stats on the Gen4 BrewZilla. It’s available in a 35-Liter form (for 5-6 gallon batches) with either a 110V setup, or 220V. There is also a larger 65-Liter that is only 220V (targeted to 10-12 gallon batches). The 35L unit holds 9.25 gallons, the mash basket can hold up to 23.5 lbs. of grain, and its electric heating elements can output up to 1500W of power (110V system) or 2400W of power (220V system). The 65L unit holds 17.1 gallons, the mash basket holds 41.5 lbs. of grain, and 3500W of heating power. All the Gen4 units have a pump bolted into the base. The pump can be used not only for wort recirculation during the mash, but also to pump beer through your wort chiller apparatus (should you choose to not use the immersion chiller coil included with the BrewZilla). The pump is more modular and accessible than previous Gen models. To protect the pump from clogging with hop debris during the boil or whirlpool, there is a filter screen (a perforated stainless disc that sits at the bottom of the unit) that sits at the bottom of the kettle. The small magnetic drive pump has a pump head rating of 1.5 – 2.1 m (4.9 – 6.9 ft) and a max flow rate of 11-12 L/min (2.9 – 3.2 gal/min).

Control Panel Notification During Mash Profile

One of the key upgraded features of the Gen4 BrewZilla is the controller. RAPT Is Kegland’s line of wireless connected brewing devices. The BrewZilla now has a RAPT controller so it adds a lot of features that can be monitored and controlled over Wi-Fi. This includes basic things like monitoring temperature from your laptop/cell phone, but also allows you to program complex mash programs online and then download to your BrewZilla. You can also adjust control parameters on the fly such as pump output duty cycle and heater output level. If you get the optional Bluetooth thermometer, you can stick the temperature probe into the middle of your grain bed, and then have the controller use that as its control signal in combination with the built-in temperature sensor that sits on the floor of the unit.

Bluetooth Temp Probe in Middle of Mash

Although All-in-One units are essentially BIAB, they use a stainless steel basket with holes in the bottom of it instead of a bag, and call it a “malt pipe”. These provide functional improvements over a nylon bag. The obvious one is they are way easier to clean. But they also allow you to ensure you get full flow through your grain bed by having holes only on the bottom. This means recirculating wort has no sneak paths out the side. The other benefit is malt pipes have simple brackets/feet welded onto the outside that allow you to lift your wet grains up and prop the malt pipe on the brew rig to drain or sparge. The BrewZilla has 2 sets of feet for this. One set is halfway up, allowing you to do the deadlift of grain & wort halfway and then let the liquid level drain down. Then when you lift it the full height, it’s not as heavy. It’s simple, but makes the process much better.

Welded-on Carry Handle (top) and Tip Handle (bottom)

There is a cool feature in the BrewZilla which normally only comes on much higher end systems, and that’s the central drain. With a concave bottom with a drain at the lowest point in the center, you don’t have to leave wort behind or goof around with tilting it to get the last drops of wort out at the end. This also enables the malt pipe to extend down lower and thus you can hold more grain (30% more than their Gen3). If you compared to other All-in-one units in the “5 gallon batch” size range, the 23.5 lbs. grain capacity is 30 – 50% more. This of course only matters if you’re trying to make high gravity brews. The drain in the floor is plumbed to the inlet of the pump below, and then you can direct pump output either to an external spigot for fast/easy transfer of wort out after brewing, or up the recirculation pipe for wort to get directed down on top of the mash.

Polished Bottom with Center Drain and Built-in Temp Sensor to Side

Bottom Side of Pump Filter Plate

To help with mash efficiency and mash temperature uniformity, they offer a Heat Exchanger Dish, which is just a stainless dish/plate that sits below your malt pipe and above the central drain. Without this dish in place, the flow of recirculating wort tends to go through the center of your grain bed, and straight out the drain. With the dish there, it directs the flow around the full circumference before it gets to the drain, which helps ensure a broader portion of the grist sees the flow.

Compare Prices, Review Continues Below:

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Hands on Review: BrewBuilt Uni Conical Fermenter! + Limited Time DEAL

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.

Updated: 7/23/2024

BrewBuild Uni+ Conical Fermentor

Fermentors are like the cars of the brewing world. There is a wide range of prices, appearances, and features. And just like cars, the most basic model (plastic bucket with a lid) will get the job done. But the basic model has limitations, and you soon find yourself eyeballing the next step up the fermentor food chain to either get one that’s flashier (stainless) or one that has more features (pressure fermentation capable). Of course, the ultimate is one that’s both shiny and has more features (stainless pressure-capable conical).

Fermentor Before Any Assembly

BrewBuilt is a division of MoreBeer that creates homebrew gear. They make a variety of products, and recently launched a series of stainless pressure-capable conical fermentors they call the X1 Uni. The X1 comes with a lot of different accessories for added features, depending on what you want. You can buy the add-ons piecemeal, or they come bundled into different hardware kits. There is the base X1 Uni, the X1 Uni+ that bundles some add-ons and temperature capabilities, and the X1 Uni Pro that also includes a heat pad, Peltier cooler, and a temperature controller.

Limited Time Deal!

MoreBeer has a limited time Summer Sale going on. The x2 Uni is included in the mix!

BrewBuilt® X2 Uni Conical Fermenter

Check Current Price, Models & Availability, Review Continues Below:

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Hands on Review: Inkbird IHT-1P Digital, Instant Read, Waterproof, Rechargeable Thermometer

Updated: July 25, 2024

This review is by Homebrew Finds Contributor Michael Gom. Read more about Michael below.

Hands on Review: Inkbird IHT-1P Digital Thermometer

Back of the box
A look at the packagingWhat’s under the thermometerAnd the back side of the card they include calibration instructionsThe included USB charging cable

Check Current Price and Availability:

Inkbird Instant Read Meat Thermometer IHT-1P, Digital Waterproof Rechargeable Instant Read Food Thermometer – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

The thermometer itself

Back sideSide view

A look at the charging port coverAnd with the cover opened, it is tethered to the thermometer so you don’t lose itAs soon as you open the probe, the screen comes on. Nice back-lit screenThe body of the thermometer has a small “catch” piece to keep the probe in so it doesn’t accidentally open on you if it’s in your pocket.

North Mountain Supply - FT-05-3 Fermentis SafAle US-05 Beer/Ale Yeast - Pack of 3 - Fresh Yeast

Safale - 2353X6 US-05 (Six Packages, 11.5 g ea)

Fermentis S-04x3 Safale S-04 Multicolor (3 ct.11.5 g Packs)

Safale S-04 (11.5 g Packs) 6 count

North Mountain Supply - FT-04-3 Fermentis SafAle US-04 Beer/Ale Yeast - Pack of 3 - Fresh Yeast S-33

adyeast

Accuracy Tests and Calibration

Initial calibration seems accurate from the factoryAt my elevation, water boils at approximately 200.6 degrees F. Boil test looks accurateBrew day! Reading 148F for the mashCompared to 149F setting on my anvil, pretty much on-point! – Related: Hands on Review: Anvil Foundry Brewing SystemAnd again, boiling at around 201F which is accurate for my elevation

Notes on Calibration

A note on calibration, the procedure is different than other thermometers I’ve used. This allows you to change it + or – within 5 degrees F of freezing or boiling, + or – 3 degrees Celciues.

So if you check it in freezing water and it reads 1 degree high (33F) you would close the probe, hold the calibration button while opening it to enter calibration mode, then press the button until +1F displays on the screen. This will tell it that it’s reading 1 degree high and adjust it accordingly. Note that I did not do this as mine was pretty accurate out of the box.

Also the thermometer will display the temperature to the tenths of the degree up until 100, then it will just show the whole number. So you get a more “accurate” or “higher resolution” degree at lower than 100 degrees. As seen in the ice water picture, the temp was 32.8 degrees, but the boil temperature shows 201.

Backlight Operation

The backlight stays on for about 30 seconds, pressing the button again will turn the backlight back on if you need it.

Battery Level Indicator

A nice feature is it shows the battery level. I didn’t capture a picture but while charging it shows a lightning bolt over the battery indicator, the it goes back to the standard battery indicator once fully charged. I haven’t run the battery dead yet so I don’t have a charge time but I think it would only take about an hour to fully charge.

Auto Shut-Off

The thermometer itself will auto-shut off after a few minutes even if the probe is open, pressing the button or closing it/opening it again will wake it back up. Also, if it’s off but it detects a large temperature change, it will wake back up as well. A few times i placed the probe in the wort while the device was off and it woke up and read the temperature.

Response Time

Reading time is fast, it gets an accurate reading within 5 seconds.

Conclusions

Time will tell on the longevity of this unit but so far it has worked for my 2 or 3 brew days I’ve used it without issue. The calibration steps seem a bit weird to me but otherwise it works as intended and i’m glad to not have to deal with those CR2032 batteries that my old thermometer used.

Check Current Price and Availability:

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “brew” – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Thank you to Michael for this review!

More About the Author: I’ve been brewing for about 8 years, started out with a 5 gallon extract kit and was hooked. Jumped into all grain after about 5 or 6 batches of extract. Since then I’ve run the gauntlet of partial mashing to building a cooler mash tun to BIAB. I recently switch to an electric all-in-one system and love it, this is my preferred method now due to ease of use and time saving. I have no professional brewing experience. I prefer pale ales and IPA’s mostly. Trying my best to be a good home brewer while also being a good family man for my wife and two kids!

OxiClean Free Versatile Stain Remover Powder, 3 lb

Vacuum Sealer Machine with 55 Count 8"x12" Food Sealers Bags and 8"*79' Vacuum Sealer Roll, Inkbird Automatic Vacuum Sealers Machine with Built-in Cutter, Dry & Moist Sealing Modes for Food Storage

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up To 35 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA

FLOTit 2.0 - No Beer Left Behind Floating Dip Tube with Double Filter Inlet (DFI) of 500/300 micron for always clear beer, less beer waste and no clogging. Made in USA.

Meat Thermometer Digital for Grilling and Cooking - ANDAXIN Waterproof Ultra-Fast Instant Read Food thermometers with Backlight & Calibration for Kitchen, Deep Fry, BBQ, Grill(Red/Black), LCD

VEVOR Magnetic Stirrer, 0-2000 RPM Stir Plate with Adjustable Speed Knob, 3000mL Plate Stirrer Kit, Stir Bar Included

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Hands on Review: Intertap Forward Sealing Faucets and Accessories

Intertap Faucets are a forward sealing faucet. The forward sealing design helps prevent sticking. Intertap Faucets have a unique modular, threaded spout design which can fit a variety of attachments including a growler filler, stout spout and ball lock post. Additional, related options are available including shanks and a self closing faucet spring.

Check Prices, Current Models, Accessories and Availability:

Intertap Faucets and Accessories at MoreBeer
Intertap Faucets and Accessories at cornykeg.com
- INTERTAP STAINLESS STEEL BEER FAUCET
- INTERTAP CHROME PLATED BRASS BEER FAUCET
Intertap Faucets and Accessories at Keg Connection
- InterTap Stainless Steel Forward Seal Faucet
Intertap Forward Sealing Faucet – Stainless Steel – via Keg Outlet
Search Amazon for “Intertap Faucet” – offerings vary
Intertap Faucets and Accessories at Great Fermentations
Intertap Faucets and Accessories at William’s Brewing

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Hands on Review: Vittles Vault Stackable Storage Bins for Homebrew Grain Storage

Updated: July 22, 2024

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.

Vittles Vault Storage Bins

Gamma2 as a company is 100% dedicated to their mission of designing and providing pet food containers to animal owners (technically they also care about your dog getting out of the pool, as they make a doggy pool exit ramp). But, that doesn’t mean these “pet food containers” can’t be co-opted for homebrewing. The same characteristics that make them ideal for pet food, also make them ideal for malt storage.

Vittles Vault 60-lb Container

I’ll go through a few storage basics for malt. First, you want to store it uncrushed, so that the husk helps keep the good stuff inside protected from the environment. Cracked grain kernels are more enticing to critters, and opens up the endosperm to fast staling. Beyond that, grain wants to be kept at cooler room temperatures (40 – 60F), dry, away from light, and in an airtight environment. Maltsters range in the max recommended storage time, with most in the 12-18 months range, and some up to 24 months. When you buy grains by the 55-lb sack, most will put a “best by” date on the label, since you don’t know how old it is before you get it. Although you can save money by buying grains in bulk, you need to make sure you have the right throughput to use it up before it stales.

Lid o-ring Out of Groove on Right Side

Gamma2 has a number of different types and sizes of storage containers. All are designed to be airtight, so they keep air from getting in and staling your grains when you’re not scooping it. (Which of course, the same thing can’t be said for that 55-lb sack of grain you’ve got in the corner, with a stretch of duct tape over the hole you cut into it…) The lid design is how they achieve this air-tightness. There’s a compliant o-ring that’s held in a groove on the lid which gets compressed down onto a chamfered face on the body of the container to make the seal. As the threaded lid gets screwed down, the o-ring will get squished to block off the air-leak path past the lid.

Deal on BULK Grain!

When you purchase 6+ 5lb bags of the same grain MoreBeer will apply a volume discount. You can see this discount on each product page. Here is an example:

Malt Deal at MoreBeer! – choose 6 more 5lb bags of grain to see volume discounts

Get Free Shipping: Shipping is free with a qualifying $59 order to many US addresses

Example… Briess 2 Row drops to $7.65 when you buy 6 or more 5 lbs packs. Buy 10 x 5 lb packs and you’ll have the equivalent of a 50 lb sack of grain. With the discount this will figure to $76.50 AND that will include shipping to many US addresses.

Yes, free shipping works… FREE Shipping DOES Work. I periodically get questions/concerns when I post this workaround, please read… Although bags of grain do not ship under MoreBeer’s free shipping program… this is a loophole of sorts. 5 and 10 lb bags do ship for free. If you use this technique you will receive 5 x 10 lb bags of grain, not a single 50 lb sack.

Check Pricing and Available Sizes & Configurations, Review Continues Below

These are affiliate links. Note that multiple variations of these products may be available, as such a different version may appear at these links

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up To 50 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Stackable Dog Food Storage Container, Up to 60 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up To 35 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up To 30 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Dog Food Storage Container, Up To 25 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage, Made in USA

Gamma2 Vittles Vault Stackable Dog Food Storage Container With Airtight Lid, Up to 35-40 Pounds Dry Pet Food Storage,Off-white, Made in USA

Also Mentioned in This Review:

64 Ounce Commercial Quality Scoop by Rubbermaid Commercial Products
Viking Malts – via MoreBeer

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Hands On Review: Allied Precision 742G 1000 Watt Heat Stick with Temp Trial

Updated: July 18, 2024

What do heat sticks do?

Heat sticks help you… heat things. For homebrewing they are helpful for getting strike and sparge water up to temp and helping to more quickly achieve or maintain a boil. Depending on the heat stick and batch size, you could potentially use a heat stick as the sole source of heat from beginning to end.

Always use caution when handling hot items and when using water around electricity.

Hands on Review: Allied Precision The Premier Line 742G Bucket Water Heater

Front of the box

Check Prices, Review Continues Below:

Allied Precision The Premier Line 742G Bucket Water Heater, Electric Immersion Heating Element Heats 5 Gallons of Water in Minutes with Auto Shutoff, Submersible Design is Heavy Duty and Portable 120V
Electric Bucket Heating Element – 1000 Watt Heat Stick BE440 – via MoreBeer – appears to be identical, but may be slightly different

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Hands on Review: IRIS 5 Quart Storage Boxes for Brewery Storage & Organization

Updated: July 22, 2024

Organizing Your Home Brewery

When I first started home brewing, I sourced several large totes to store and organize my gear and supplies. I quickly learned that these consumed too much shelf space and were inefficient for the kind of things I wanted to organize. Beyond that, it was hard to find things. The sides were not clear and they were big enough that I had to do a lot of searching and digging around.

Check Current Pricing and Availability, Review Continues Below:

IRIS USA, Inc. CNL-5 Storage Box, 5 Quart, Clear, 20 Pack – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Search Amazon for “Iris 5 quart” to search for other potentially similar offerings

Next I moved to shoe box sized containers with clear walls. I found these to be much better for organizing my home brewery. They were small enough that I could use dozens of them, labeling each for easy identification. They stacked and the lids were easy to get on and off. I still keep a few larger totes for larger items, but much of my homebrew gear is in shoe box sized containers.

Here’s what I look for in these sorts of containers…

Clear – I want to be able to see in the container without opening it up.
5 to 6.5 quarts or so
Easy snap on lids – I want lids to go on and come off easily. For this application, I’m not looking for airtight
Stacking. I want these to stack to save space.
Nesting. When not in use I want to be able to nest these to save space.

Hands on Review IRIS USA, Inc. CNL-5 Storage Boxes for Homebrew Organization

The 20 boxes and lids that I received. These stack for efficient storage when not in use.A look at the lid, these easily snap on and off. They are clear, which is an improvement compared the other style that I use.

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Hands On Review: Ultraship 55 lb Grain Scale – Digital Scale With Removable Face

Hands on Review UltraShip Scale for Homebrew Use

UltraShip scale by My Weigh are generally intended for use in the kitchen or for mailing and shipping.

Looking at the features homebrewer’s, including myself, started using these for grain scales. They feature, generally, high capacities, good accuracy and some great features… like the removable face!

As of this writing, three size options are available

Electronic Grain Scale – 55 lbs. MT355 – via MoreBeer
My Weigh UltraShip 35 Lb Electronic Scale affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
My Weigh Ultraship 55 Postal Scale in Black with Power Supply Adapter affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
My Weigh Ultraship 75 Lb Electronic Digital Shipping Postal Kitchen Scale (ultra-75) affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Search Amazon for “ultraship” to shop for other offers & accessories

My Weigh Ultraship 55 Postal Scale in Black with Power Supply Adapter

Ultraship 75 Lb Electronic Digital Shipping Postal Kitchen Scale

My Weigh UltraShip 35 Lb Electronic Scale,black; blue

This article contains affiliate links. We may make a small percentage if you use our links to make a purchase. You won’t pay more and you’ll be supporting Homebrew Finds and more content like this. Thank you for your support!

This review looks specifically at the 55 lb version, although features should be similar between all three variations.

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Hands on Review: FermZilla Tri-Clamp Conical

fermzilla conical fermenter review

Updated: July 19, 2024

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!

FermZilla Tri-Clamp Conical

There have been some exciting new offerings over the last five years or so in the homebrewing fermenter market. With loads of offerings from companies like Spike, Ss Brewtech, Blichmann Engineering, Kegland, as well as from a product line called BrewBuilt developed by MoreBeer, a home brewer has a lot to choose from when considering upgrading or replacing an existing fermenter. One of the features that is becoming more common on new fermenter offerings is the ability hold pressure, either to enable pressure transfers or to allow fermenting under pressure – both of which enable low-oxygen brewing along with other advantages. If a brewer wanted to upgrade to a pressure fermenter there are a range of prices and options to consider. For those who want to try pressure fermentation before investing many hundreds or even thousands of dollars, thankfully there are some excellent newer plastic options that perform the job admirably.

Related: Fermenting Under Pressure

Kegland is a noticeable leader in the pressurized fermenters market. With their line of FermZilla fermenters, a brewer can experiment with pressure fermentation without investing a ton of money to see if this method fits into their brewing operations. I have been a satisfied user of the FermZilla All Rounder fermenter for nearly three years now. Before that I was using a Chronical from Ss Brewtech. While both have their advantages, forced to choose between the two I would choose the All Rounder for its flexibility, cost, and higher pressure rating (the Chronical only held a few psi to allow for transfers). One thing that the Chronical has that the All Rounder is missing is the ability to dump trub and collect yeast. Thankfully there is another option from Kegland that combines the flexibility of the All Rounder with the trub and yeast management of a conical fermenter.

Check Current Availability, Pricing & Specs:

Complete Lineup of FermZilla Fermenters & Accessories at MoreBeer
FermZilla Fermenters at William’s Brewing
- FermZilla 27 Liter Tri Conical Fermenter
- FermZilla 55 Liter 3.2 Tri Conical Fermenter < the exact model reviewed here
Search Amazon for “FermZilla” – offerings vary

Related Reviews:

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Hands on Review: Kegland BrewZilla Electric Brewing System

Updated: July 24, 2024

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.

Hands on Review BrewZilla Gen4

The basic premise of an all-in-one brewing system is that your mash and boil kettle are in the

BrewZilla Without Jacket

Stamped Volume Markings

Control Panel Notification During Mash Profile

Bluetooth Temp Probe in Middle of Mash

Welded-on Carry Handle (top) and Tip Handle (bottom)

Polished Bottom with Center Drain and Built-in Temp Sensor to Side

Bottom Side of Pump Filter Plate

Compare Prices, Review Continues Below:

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Hands on Review: Viking Malt Xtra Pale Base Malt + Save w/Malt 6 Packs!

Viking Xtra Pale Malt in a Vittles Vault Container – Hands on Review

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.

Viking Xtra Pale Malt

When we say “malt”, most of the time we are referring to “malted barley”. The barley is grown and harvested as a grain, and then the malt house does the fancy processing of coaxing that grain to get it ready to sprout, and then heating it to stop that sprouting process. Both of these things (the grain and the processing by the maltster) are what give us the different colors and flavors in our beers. The temperature and length of time the barley is heated is the biggest variable affecting the color of the wort you end up making from it.

More About Viking Malts – Check Prices & Selection, Review Continues Below

Viking 2-Row Xtra Pale Malt
Complete Viking Malt Lineup

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Review: Barebottle Brewing Company Torcido Lager – Homebrew Recipe Kit + Limited Time DEAL

Updated: July 10, 2024

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.

Torcido Lager is a Mexican Lager. Sort of. I don’t know much about the style definition of a Mexican Lager, but MoreBeer’s site describes the recipe creation from Barebottle Brewing (San Francisco, CA) as non-traditional. Apparently, Barebottle likes mixing things up, so they describe this beer as a Mexican Pilsner with a German Helles twist. For Barebottle, this beer scored a Gold in the 2019 GABF, so crazy description aside, I figured the beer had some cred behind it.

Limited Time DEAL:

Barebottle Brewing Companys Torcido Mexican Style Lager from MoreBeer:

The most compelling stories always have a twist. Barebottle’s award-winning Torcido is a Mexican pilsner with a German Helles twist. Combining these styles results in a light and refreshing lager that would make even M. Night Shyamalan do a double take. Originally developed by Barebottle brewer John “Magic” Montes, Torcido took gold in the 2019 Great American Beer Fest and in turn became the inaugural inductee into the Viking Malt Hall of Fame. Brewed with Viking Pilsner, flaked corn, a dash of Carahell®, and hopped with two additions of Crystal and Saaz.

Barebottle Brewing Company was born in San Francisco, CA with the idea that craft brewing shouldn’t adhere to the strict guidelines of established beer styles. Founded by a trio of friends and former classmates, they continue to pay homage to their homebrewing roots by printing a scaled down version of their recipe on every label. If you ever see one of their creations out in the wild, we highly recommend that your buy it, drink it, and then brew it!

MoreBeer’s Kit of the Week offers a 20% discount on a select recipe for a limited time. Choose from all grain or extract versions while supplies last.
Shipping is also free to many US addresses with a qualifying $59 order
Custom Tap Handle: All of MoreBeer’s original recipe kits come with a full color insert that works with this custom tap handle
Easy Filler Item…. If you’re looking for a filler item to help you qualify for free shipping, consider grabbing some PBW

Check out this week’s Kit of the Week! – remember coupon code KOTW

Barebottle Brewing Companys Torcido Mexican Style Lager – All Grain Beer Brewing Kit
Barebottle Brewing Companys Torcido Mexican Style Lager – Extract Beer Brewing Kit
MoreBeer Clone Recipe Kits – Heady Topper, Sculpin, Zombie Dust & LOTS More

Get Pricing & Check Availability, Review Continues Below:

Barebottle Brewing Companys Torcido Mexican Style Lager – All Grain Beer Brewing Kit
Barebottle Brewing Companys Torcido Mexican Style Lager – Extract Beer Brewing Kit
MoreBeer Clone Recipe Kits – Heady Topper, Sculpin, Zombie Dust & LOTS More

MoreBeer Recipe Kit Deals!

MoreBeer.com Recipe Kit Deals

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Hands on Review: Anvil Foundry Brewing System

July 7,2024

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.

Anvil Brewing Equipment Foundry

There are a lot of all-in-one electric brew rigs on the market. The entry to all-grain for most was through a converted cooler 3-vessel system. It was the cheapest way to get into all-grain, and why so many of us came that way. Precision control and/or electric heating convenience came at a premium that you would upgrade to later. Well, those are now relegated to “old timer stories”. At the all-grain entry level price point, you can now get an all-in-one electric unit from Anvil for the price you’d pay for an Igloo cooler kit with a burner and pot. So now those getting into all-grain can start with the precision of digital temperature control, and the weather-proof convenience of an electric heat source.

Compare Models, Prices and Availability, Review Continues Below:

These are affiliate links, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at these links

Anvil Foundry 6.5 Gallon All-In-One Brewing System - No Pump

Foundry 10.5 Gallon All-In-One Brewing System With Pump

ANVIL FOUNDRY 6.5 Gallon Electric Boiler Kettle For All Grain Brewing T500 Ready Includes Recirculation Pump Kit and Wort Chiller

Foundry 10.5 Gallon All-in-One Brewing System - No Pump

All-in-One Electric Brewing System, Anvil Foundry™, Home Beer Brewer, Delayed Start Timer, 240V or 120 Option, Easy Clean False Bottom, Sous Vide Machine (10.5 Gallon)

Comparing Anvil Foundry Versions

The Anvil Foundry comes in two sizes, a 10.5 gallon and a 6.5 gallon. They share most all of the same features, but the 10.5 is targeted at 4-5 gallon batches, and the 6.5 for 2.5 gallon batches. There’s also an accessory you can order for the 10.5 to insert in the mash basket and then go as low as 2 gallon batches. Both of these units come with the option to add on a recirculation kit, which provides a pump and some other hardware bits to allow you to recirculate wort during the mash. Every unit also has a simple switch you can change to run on 120V or 240V. However, the unit comes with a 3-prong 120V plug, so if you do opt for the 240V setting, you have to cut the plug off and attach the appropriate 240V plug type.

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Hands On Review: 12 Stainless Steel Portion Cups – for Brew Day Measuring & Samples

Hands on Review – Update International Stainless Steel Portion Cups for Brew Day

These are generally intended for serving condiments and small amounts of food. Considering their size, materials and efficient design, they are also well suited for use on brew day. I’ve kept these and similar portion cups in my Brew Day Box for years.

Check Current Price, Description & Availability:

Individual Condiment Sauce Cups- One Dozen – 2½ Oz. Ounce by Update International – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Other Options:

Similar offerings. Size and specifications vary

Artcome 18 Pack Stainless Steel Condiment Sauce Cups Great for Dipping and Portion Cups, 1.5 oz
Carlisle 602500 Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, 2.5 oz, Stainless Steel (Pack of 12)
Stainless Steel 2.5 Oz. Sauce Cup (Pack of 12)
Winco SCP-40, 4-Ounce Stainless Steel Round Ramekin Condiment Sauce Cups, 1 Dozen Pack
There are lots of similar cups out there Search Amazon for “Stainless Steel Ramekins” to shop around. Look for a good size, quality materials (like stainless steel) and good reviews

Individual Condiment Sauce Cups- One Dozen - 2½ Oz. Ounce by Update International

Winco SCP-40, 4-Ounce Stainless Steel Round Ramekin Condiment Sauce Cups, 1 Dozen Pack

Stainless Steel 2.5 Oz. Sauce Cup (Pack of 12)

CFS Stainless Steel Sauce Cup 2.5 Ounces

Artcome 18 Pack Stainless Steel Condiment Sauce Cups Great for Dipping and Portion Cups, 1.5 oz

Related Review:

Hands On Review: Winco 4 Ounce Stainless Steel Portion Cups – for Brew Day Measuring & Samples

You can use these to portion out hop additions and other boil additions and for pH and gravity sample containers. These are a great size and don’t take a lot of room since they nest together.

12 stacked cups take up minimal space

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Hands on Review: Oktober Design SL1 Can Seamer – Can Your Homebrew + An OUTSTANDING Deal on Cannular

July 8, 2024

Oktober Design was started in 2014 by a group of engineers and beer lovers. They make high quality, well thought out and affordable Crowler and Can seamers. Their target has been brew pubs and smaller commercial brewers. With the introduction of the SL1 they’ve finally made a machine designed specifically for homebrewers.

Before Oktober Designs and similar started making countertop can seamers, canning beer was out of reach and unrealistic for homebrewers and even some smaller brew pub operations. I looked into canning early in my homebrewing career. Around that time a manufacturer released an “affordable” system that was in the $10k, range. That was considered affordable at the time. I’m happy to say that times have changed.

Related: Can Your Homebrew for LESS, Check out Cannular:

Deals on Cannular are rare. MoreBeer periodically offers a discount

Limited Time DEAL!

An Outstanding Deal on Cannular!

Cannular Bench Top Can Seamer via MoreBeer

More Info

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

The Cannular is a manual can seamer that is easy to use, reliable and beautifully simple.

Whether you’re a brewery looking to offer canned beer to go or a homebrewer wanting to keep your creations fresh and fully protected from light, the Cannular is the answer. This bench top unit is one of the most compact and easy to use can seamers you’ll find. The Cannular only requires one person to operate, and each can takes roughly 5 seconds to seam. With a two-person team, one filling and one seaming, the Cannular becomes a suitable option for nano breweries doing small canning production runs.

Operation:
The beauty of the Cannular lies in how truly simple it is to operate. With only three points of operation, it only takes a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the machine. The seaming process is as follows:

Place lid atop the can and place the can on the platform
Turn the platform lever clockwise to raise the can to the seamer
Press the button to turn the machine on and begin spinning the can
Push the seaming lever away from you and hold for 1-2 seconds
Pull the seaming lever towards yourself and hold for 1-2 seconds
Press the button to turn off the machine and stop spinning the can
Turn the platform lever counterclockwise to lower the can
That’s all there is to it!

Construction:
The Cannular was designed to be compact, durable, and safe to operate in a wet environment. The platform assembly is made from 304 grade stainless steel, so no matter how messy your canning gets, there’s no need to worry about rusting or degradation. The body of the unit is made from hammered sheet metal and bolted together with stainless steel screws. Rubber feet help keep the unit from slipping and sliding while in use. Additionally, the Cannular features built-in brackets near the feet so you have the option to mount the machine to your counter or benchtop. The Cannular runs off of 24v DC power via the Anderson socket located on the back. This lower voltage was chosen specifically to make the unit as safe to use in a wet environment as possible.

Power:
As noted above, the Cannular comes with a 24v DC Anderson socket located on the back of the unit. It does not, however, include a cord and plug. When purchasing the unit, you’ll have the option of pairing it with either a power supply with 110v plug, or with a 6 ft. long cord with Anderson plug and alligator clips. The power supply is straight forward, and allows you to plug the unit into a standard 110v power socket. The alligator clips give you the option to power the unit from a battery, and can even be used with an 18v cordless power drill battery. This is certainly the most affordable option for powering the Cannular, and we’ve found that upwards of 200 cans can be seamed on a single battery charge.

Why Cans?
So why can when you can bottle? There’s no doubt that canning has become a more and more popular format for packaging beer among craft breweries over the last several years, and with good reason. Aluminum cans aren’t just more environmentally friendly than bottles, since cans require less energy to transport and recycle, they’re also much better at protecting the quality of the beer. Whereas bottles allow in light, which leads to skunking, aluminum cans offer 100% protection from UV and other wavelengths of light that are harmful to beer. There’s still great debate surrounding whether cans or bottles are better at keeping beer fresh, but if done correctly, cans are theoretically the superior option. When a crown cap is crimped onto a bottle, the lining of the cap can form an imperfect seal on the bottle, allowing small amounts of oxygen in, as well as small amounts of CO2 out. Over time this can result in oxidation of the beer and lost carbonation. Seamed cans, on the other hand, form a much better seal that can prevent these issues. Of course, it’s important to make sure that the can is purged of oxygen before being filled, and that the can lid is sealed atop foam to eliminate oxygen from the headspace. Aside from all the “sciency stuff”, cans are just plain safer. Take your beer backpacking, camping, or poolside and rest assured that broken glass won’t ruin your day!

Specifications:
Power: 250W
Rated Speed: 3300 RPM
Gearbox Ratio: 9.8 : 1
Power Plug: Anderson Type 40A
Can Height: 45-170mm (1.8 – 6.7 inches)*
Can Diameter: 35-75mm (1.4 – 2.9 inches)*
Dimensions: 14″ L x 9″ W x 19.5″ H
Weight: 40 lbs

MoreBeer has Cannular on sale for $399.99. That’s a $150 savings.
For some pricing clarity, I’ve seen USED units sell for more than this.
This is a rare deal because the regular version of the Cannular is under a MAP agreement. That means that it, generally speaking, cannot be discounted. I don’t know if this is a one-off thing or if the reverse roller version will be an ongoing offering.
Get Free Shipping: Shipping is also free to most US addresses with a qualifying $59 order. This includes bulky cases of new cans.
Learn More! Hands on Review: Kegland Cannular Bench Top Can Seamer – Homebrew Canner

Cannular Bench Top Can Seamer CAN100

Why Can?

Cans block all light and oxygen transfer. That’s not true of bottles. They also play well at the park, beach and pool. Glass bottles are made from breakable glass that can… break. 🙂 Canning is also… cool. We’ve been able to pretty easily do everything that commercial brewers have been able to do – Conicals, Control Panels, Fermenting Under Pressure and More – for quite some time. Canning, until recently, was a hold out.

Even with new equipment like the SL1 becoming available, canning is more expensive than bottling. You can save used bottles for free and use a $10 capper. This means that doing things as cheap as possible cannot be a driving factor when considering a can seamer.

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Hands on Review: Craftsman Deep Well Sockets for Ball Lock Keg Posts

What Size Are Ball Lock Keg Posts?

There are two primary post sizes for standard ball lock kegs. 11/16″ and 7/8″. These can come in both 6 point and 12 point, compatible variations. I’ve seen two other post sizes. 5/8″ and 9/16″. I consider those more non-standard. This post focuses on 11/16″ and 7/8″.

I usually use a wrench when dealing with ball lock keg posts. I have one wrench that works with both sizes – See: Hands on Review: “Ball Lock Keg Wrench” – 11/16″+7/8″ Ratcheting Wrench – via Apollo Tools Wrench Set – but having a socket is sometimes super handy and sometimes potentially required.

What about 12 Point vs 6 Point Posts?

ball lock post sizes

For the larger 7/8″ posts I’ve seen both 6 point and 12 point styles. A 12 point socket will work on a 6 point post, but not vice versa. For the smaller 11/16″ posts I have only seen 6 point. Not to say that 12 point don’t exist, I just don’t recall seeing any.

This post looks at both sizes to prove what I’m saying here, however, when looking for a 7/8″ socket, I recommend a 12 point design. That gives you the flexibility to work with both 6 and 12 point style posts. For the smaller 11/16″ socket, a 6 point design should work.

These Only Work With Ball Lock Kegs, Why?

These sockets will only work with standard Ball Lock Keg Posts. Pin Lock Kegs require a special socket that has a notch in it to allow the post pin to slip through.

Lots more info… What’s the Difference Between Ball Lock Kegs and Pin Lock Kegs?

If you need a Pin Lock Socket, See: Keg Sockets – Choose Your Sockets – via Keg Connection, choose the Pin Lock Option

Hands on Review Craftsman Sockets for Ball Lock Keg Posts

This post looks at four Craftsman Deep Sockets. I purchased these at Amazon. Note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear when you click on the product link

11/16″ 6 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 3/8-Inch Drive, 11/16-Inch, 6-Point (CMMT43336) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
11/16″ 12 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 1/2-Inch Drive, 11/16-Inch, 12-Point (CMMT47524) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Not Recommended, See Conclusions at the end of this review – 7/8″ 6 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 3/8-Inch Drive, 7/8-Inch, 6-Point (CMMT43339) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
7/8″ 12 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 1/2-Inch Drive, 7/8-Inch, 12-Point (CMMT47528) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 1/2-Inch Drive, 7/8-Inch, 12-Point (CMMT47528)

CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 1/2-Inch Drive, 11/16-Inch, 12-Point (CMMT47524)

Canada:

Since the driver that I keep in my brewery area is 3/8″ drive, I also used this adapter

Craftsman Socket Adapter 1/2″ Drive to 3/4″ (04271)

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Hands on Review: Torpedo 10 Gallon Ball Lock Homebrew Kegs + Limited Time DEAL Ends Soon!

Larger 10 and 15 gallon homebrew kegs have been very hard to find… for years. There have been a couple sources, eBay was a best bet, but that was touch and go at best. When you could find one, prices were… outrageous. $300++ for a used 10 gallon keg would not be uncommon. Again, that’s IF you could find one.

Great news homebrewers…. MoreBeer has introduced 10 and 15 gallon homebrew ball lock kegs via their Torpedo line of kegs and accessories. These are BRAND NEW kegs that are (hopefully) readily available at a reasonable price.

Why a larger 10 or 15 gallon homebrew keg?

The first and most obvious answer is for large batch brewers. If you brew 10 or 15 gallon batches, it sure would be nice to have a keg that fits your entire batch. Even if you don’t brew 10 gallons, you may want to brew a couple 5 gallon batches of the same beer (much like professional brewers do) and keg it in a single keg.

A less obvious answer to the question is… to use as a fermenter. Kegs are well-built stainless steel vessels that are pressure capable. You can easily move them around and they are built to be bumped around a bit. Using a keg opens up some really interesting possibilities…. fermenting under pressure with a Spunding Valve [See: Build a Spunding Valve! – How and Why], naturally carbonating in the fermenter/Krausening (again with the aid of a Spunding Valve), transferring under pressure, oxygen-free (or near oxygen-free) transfers, re-purposing expelled CO2 and more.

A third application is similar to the second… Use as a UniVessel. Ferment and serve in the same vessel. Save time and simplify your process.

Limited Time DEAL!

MoreBeer is discounting select items by up to 20%. No coupon code required.
Get Free Shipping: This ships for free with a qualify order as part of MoreBeer’s Free Shipping Program. Under that promo most orders over $59 ship for free.

4th of July Sale – up to 20% Off at MoreBeer!

The 15 gallon version of this great keg is included in the mix and on sale for just $215.99.

Check Prices, Review Continues Below

Torpedo Ball Lock Keg – 10 gal. KEG810
Torpedo Ball Lock Keg – 15 gal. KEG815
Complete Torpedo Keg Lineup
Hands on Review: Torpedo Ball Lock Kegs from MoreBeer (review of a more standard size)

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Hands on Review: Tilt Bluetooth Fermentation Hydrometer

Updated: July 26, 2024

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.

Tilt Bluetooth Fermentation Hydrometer

I get pretty excited about most homebrew gear. As an engineer, I love trying to find new tools that let me brew more consistently, or give me control over processes that previously were just a spectator sport. The Tilt Bluetooth hydrometer is one of those devices that pulls back the curtain a bit on a part of the brew process that’s a bit more mysterious. It lets you see what’s going on within your fermenting beer in a way that makes you wonder how you managed without it before.

Deals on TILT are Rare, Why?

TILT is a MAP item. MAP = Minimum Advertised Price. It’s an agreement between sellers and manufacturer’s not to sell an item below a certain price. This gear generally sells for about the same price no matter where you purchase it from and is rarely discounted.

Rare Deal on TILT…

Adventures in Homebrewing’s Rewards program typically offers about 5% back. Each qualifying item earns 1 point per dollar. 200 points gets you a $10 discount code.
My contact at AIH says this works on EVERYTHING excluding gift cards.
Note: In order to earn rewards points, you must log in to your AIH account.
See: Rewards Program Complete Details

This is a loophole or sorts that gets you a rare, de facto discount on TILT

Tilt Hydrometers at Adventures in Homebrewing
- Blue
- Yellow
- Pink
- Orange
- Purple

Stacks With Free Shipping: Adventures in Homebrewing is offering free shipping on most orders of $99 or more to addresses in the contiguous US.
Need a Filler to get to $99? Sale Items – sorted low to high AND sorted most popular first,

Check Current Prices & Availability

Check product pages and searches for current availability, description and pricing

TIlt Hydrometers at MoreBeer
- Blue
- Red
- Green
- Orange
- Black
Tilt Hydrometers at Adventures in Homebrewing
- Blue
- Yellow
- Pink
- Orange
- Purple
Tilt Hydrometers at Great Fermentations
- Purple
- Red
- Yellow
- Pink
- Orange
Tilt Hydrometers at Austin Homebrew Supply
Tilt Hydrometers at SoCal Brewing Supply
Search Amazon for “Tilt Hydrometer” – offerings vary

A note about colors: The function of all models is the same. If you want multiple TILTs you should choose different colors because your app can monitor only one of each color

TILT Wrench

Tilt Wrench for Standard Tilt Hydrometer at AIH
Tilt Wrench for Standard Tilt Hydrometer at Austin Homebrew Supply

TILT Range Extender

Tilt Repeater Range Extender – at AIH
Tilt Repeater Range Extender – at Austin Homebrew Supply

Tilt Hydrometer App affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Tilt Hydrometer App for iOS – via Apple App Store

The device comes in a compact clear polycarbonate tube, sealed on each end to keep the battery and fancy circuitry dry as it floats along in your fermentor. It’s completely no-strings-attached, and you just drop it in your fermentor and the Bluetooth chip on board broadcasts to your smartphone or tablet to report Standard Gravity and temperature. It makes use of a novel concept to track your gravity. It has a digital inclinometer on board, which measures how much it’s “tilt”-ed . The weight of the device makes it want to sink in your beer, and buoyancy of the cylinder counteracts it. The thicker your wort is, the Tilt doesn’t sink as much and as a result has a greater tilt. As your fermentation progresses and the gravity drops, the buoyancy decreases and Tilt sinks lower and becomes more vertical. The circuitry measuring the angle does some calculations and outputs the angle as a gravity measurement.

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Hands on Review: Blichmann Engineering Riptide Brewing Pump Upgrade Kit – Upgrade Your March or Chugger Pump

July 7, 2024

This review is by Homebrew Finds Reader Benji S. Benji has been brewing for 10 years. His favorite style is Festbier. He’s an all grain brewer and member of WIZA (Whidbey Island Zymurgy Association). Check him out on Instagram at neon_hop

Tell anyone that you spend hours cleaning as part of a hobby, and you’ll probably get a few odd looks. Unfortunately this is our reality as Homebrewers. Planning, prepping, cleaning, and waiting take up large percentages of any given batch. We often chase new ingredients, techniques, equipment, and short cuts in an effort to reduce the time we spend on these areas. Sometimes introducing new equipment into your process can make some parts of these tasks easier, while introducing new steps to others.

Pumps help move around lots of liquid in a short amount of time, reducing the need to lift heavy kettles or pots. They also introduce some additional planning needed for connecting vessels in a loop of hosing and cleaning after use. This has essentially been the summary experience I’ve had with my Chugger X-Dry [Hands on Review]. In the never ending quest for reducing the time and effort needed to use it, I looked at what changes I could make to my setup to make using it even simpler.

Blichmann Engineering is well known for high quality and well designed equipment targeted at Homebrewers. It should be no surprise then that their Riptide pump is a fairly feature packed model compared to others on the market. Particularly their TC clamp attached pump head with built in flow control and priming valve. In recognition of their audience, Blichmann also produces an upgrade kit that offers these same features to anyone with a Chugger or March pump.

Upgrading my Chugger X-Dry with their kit seems like a perfect way to take a good pump and make it even better, hopefully shaving some steps off of the prep and cleaning process in the meantime.

Criteria

My original criteria when looking for a pump were largely satisfied by the Chugger X-Dry, but there were a couple of criteria that were lacking, namely:

Head assembly should be fairly easy to take apart to aid in cleaning]
Flow control valve for use when sparging
Easy and intuitive to prime and get started

As the Riptide conversion kit is meant to solve many of these things, it made a natural candidate for trying out an upgrade to see if I could improve the usability experience. Additionally, my experience with the X-Dry suggested it was fairly easy to get into a state where it was cavitating. My hope was that the purge valve would help alleviate, or solve, this issue.

Compare Models, Prices and Availability, Review Continues Below:

Note that links could potentially show Riptide Pump, Riptide Upgrade and related Riptide parts and equipment

Riptide Brewing Pump Upgrade Kit BL297 – via MoreBeer
RipTide Brewing Pump by Blichmann Engineering BL295 – Hands on Review
Chugger X-Dry Series Pump Stainless Steel – Hands on Review
March Pumps

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