Pico Pro Craft Beer Brewing Appliance for Homebrewing
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
Brews 5 liters of beer at a time – the equivalent of 13 12-ounce bottles
Fine-tune the ABV (alcohol content) and ibu (bitterness level) of any PicoPak to your liking, or create a custom PicoPak with your own recipe of grains, hops, and yeast.
Designed for home brewing elites, the Pico Pro comes with two 6. 6 liter (1. 75 gallon) ball-lock kegs, easy to connect to your kegerator or the included CO2-powered party tap
Professional Co2 force-carbonation system so you can enjoy your finished beer faster
Built-in steam cleaning and dishwasher-safe components make clean-up simple
Kegtron Smart Keg Monitor – Dual Tap Expansion Unit | Track Your Keg Levels From Your Phone | Upgrade Your Taps
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
UPGRADE YOUR TAPS – Wirelessly monitor your kegerator or taps at the bar
ALL ON YOUR PHONE – Monitor all of your kegs from your phone or tablet
STOP THE GUESSWORK – Don’t be surprised by empty kegs. Track volume served, volume remaining, servings remaining and more
QUICK AND EASY – Install it yourself quickly and clean-in-place with your beverage lines
EXPANDABLE – Add expansion monitors to grow as needed. Works with small kegerators to large bars & restaurants
Kegtron Smart Keg Monitor, monitors the beers you have on tap and let’s you know how much each keg is holding. Works with a companion smart phone and tablet app.
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.
Brewfather App
Depending on your brewing personality, you might take notes on paper, do no recipe calculations at all, or use brewing software. I started using BeerSmith when I moved to all-grain brewing, since there were more variables to control when making a recipe and more process steps to keep track of. I’ve been using BeerSmith 2 for the past 5 years, and that’s established my baseline expectations of brewing software. That’s the perspective used when I evaluated the Brewfather software.
Give it a Try!
Brewfather offers a free full feature trial. After the trial period, you’ll still have access via a limited, non-expiring account
What I’ve found with BeerSmith is that it pretty much has everything I need, but some features are a bit more cumbersome to use than I would like. Although there are limitations or some awkward features, it works and I know how to use it. And more importantly, my entire recipe history of all-grain exists within it. So when someone told me about Brewfather and suggested I check it out, I was apprehensive. I felt like I had so much time invested in BeerSmith, and I didn’t want to have to go through re-learning everything again in a new software. But I tried it anyway.
The Basics
Brewfather isn’t a software that you load on your computer, the software exists on Brewfather’s servers. So there’s nothing to install or configure. You access it through a web browser interface, but it’s much fancier than that. You have the exact same interface and full toolset whether you’re running it on a laptop, a tablet, or a smartphone. Once you’ve created an account, your login credentials work in all of those environments to seamlessly give you access. And since it’s running off a server, all of those devices have access to the same information at the same time. If you change a recipe on your phone, it automatically shows up on your laptop. If you’re running a brew timer on your laptop and then close that down, you open it on your smartphone without missing a beat. And in these settings, it also allows you to work offline and then sync your data when you get back online.
Brew Timer in Action
Because it’s a server-based software, it stays funded by users paying a licensing fee. You can have full access to the calculators for free, but the free membership only lets you store 10 recipes, and doesn’t allow certain features. To go beyond that, you have to pay for the Premium Membership, which is $2/month, or $20/year if you pay for the full year at once.
Recipe generation is straightforward, with a large database of grains, hops, and yeast to pick from to build your recipe up. As you add ingredients, a recipe graphic shows how your recipe measures up against the beer style guidelines that you’ve picked. As you add your grains, you can either add the amount and see the resulting % of mash and OG, or alternatively, you go into your grain list and select the percentage of the malt bill you want each grain to make up and it automatically calculates the weight. Or even better, you select the OG you want, and it will ratio up your grains to meet that OG and keep the percentages the same. Hop additions have similar tools where you can select the IBU and it will ratio your hop weights to hit your target IBU. When you select your yeast, there’s a pop-up calculator where it will calculate the particulars for a yeast starter where you can customize things like pitch rate and yeast age easily. A water calculator is integrated into the recipe builder for easy adjustment of target water profile and auto-calculated mineral additions to hit your target.
Water Adjustment Tool
After you’ve built your recipe, brew day features are built in. With the brew timer directly fed from your recipe, it maps out your brew day with step-by-step instructions. It starts by telling you the strike water volume and temperature and prompting you to get that going. When you click to tell it you’ve reached strike temperature, it spits out the list of brewing salt additions and grains. You confirm that you’ve mashed in, and the timer starts for the mash time you had set up in your recipe. An alarm with pop-up window tells you when the mash step is over, and tells you the next target temperature. When your mash steps are complete, it guides you through sparging and tells you how much wort to collect for the pre-boil volume. Stepping into the boil phase, it prompts you for boil additions at the appropriate time, and even post-boil whirlpool additions. And as I mentioned before, this is all synchronized on whatever device you’re looking at (even if simultaneously open on a laptop in one room and your smartphone in another).
To list all of the features and functions within the software would be exhausting and would just turn into a replicate of the owner’s manual. You can import and export recipes, so if your BeerSmith veteran like me, you can pull over your favorite recipes. You can build equipment profiles and customize them for fill volumes, lost volumes, etc. The equipment profile has a tool to precisely characterize the thermal properties of your brew rig for infusion mash additions with a simple experiment. You can customize water profiles, ingredient profiles, beer styles- pretty much everything.
Hands on Review
First and foremost- bug free. I discovered no glitches, no weird “just click on it twice, even though you shouldn’t have to” bugs, and the transitions from laptop to phone and back were likewise flawless. I loved the ability to start my recipe at home on my laptop before going to work, finishing it up on my work computer, and even tweaking it while at the homebrew shop when I found they didn’t have the particular hop I was planning to use. I didn’t have to take a note somewhere and go back to update the master copy, I had access to the master copy anywhere I went. I was even impressed that during my brew session, when I realized I hadn’t set up the mash profile to what I wanted, I was able to go in, edit it, and jump back out, all without disrupting the brew timer, and instantly incorporating that tweak to the active session.
Brew Session Data Entry and Realtime Statistics
Recipe creation was great. Not that I ever found it that hard in BeerSmith, but Brewfather made it somehow easier, and felt more flexible. But by far, my favorite feature was the “Batch” concept. You build your Recipe, and that becomes your “master copy”. When you’re ready to brew, you click on a button within your Recipe to start a Batch, which copies your recipe as the starting point. But if you want to make a 5 gallon batch this time instead of a 2.5 gallon batch, you change it in the settings for that Batch, and the recipe master remains untouched. If you are brewing your favorite recipe, but in a new piece of brewing equipment, you handle that in the Batch. If the AA% of the hops you’re using are slightly different than your recipe, you change that in the Batch and let the software adjust to maintain your IBU. If you want to experiment with a different yeast this time, you do that in your Batch. All of these brew session variations off your master recipe are stored together as a subset of your recipe. You don’t have multiple copies of a recipe strewn about with minor variations. This is perfect for those of us that try to perfect a certain recipe, or want to keep detailed notes of all the minor set-up variations from batch to batch.
The other thing that grabbed my attention when I heard about Brewfather was the integration it has with Tilt (or other various brewing devices). Every batch I brew, I track fermentation progress with a Tilt Bluetooth hydrometer. With Brewfather, it gives me an http:// address to type into my Tilt App settings and then it sends all of its gravity & temperature logging data to my Brewfather account. In my Batch tracking, once brew day is done, I can move it into the fermentation stage and then tell it which Tilt is tracking fermentation. Then within that Batch record, you can pull up the exact fermentation profile. Without Brewfather, I map my Tilt to write data to Google Sheets, then print out a hard copy later and tape it into my brewing journal. Having the complete history in one online dataset, seems like a great record-keeping process. And being able to record gravity readings, pH readings, volume readings, and any other notes in one Batch record in the midst of my brew session, pretty much makes my brewing notebook obsolete (in theory).
Tilt Data Plot on Smartphone with Data Smoothing On
Conclusions
Overall, the layout is well thought-out, with all the various calculators and brewing tools integrated in at logical points rather than having to go search for functions. The operation was flawless for me, which of course is super-important since you don’t want a brew day timer to freeze up on you in mid-batch, or risk losing a great recipe that turned out great. The ability to track Batches off of one Recipe is a feature I really loved, as well as having full access with whatever computer/smartphone I wanted to use. And lastly, being a big Tilt user, it’s great to be able to have this functionality integrated with all my brew records rather than a separate set of data/graphs. So even though I hate the concept of having to pay for software on an on-going basis, with all of this functionality stemming from its server-based operation, I’m on board.
meross Smart WiFi Outdoor and Indoor Plug with 2 Grounded Sockets, Plug-in Heavy Duty Outlet, Remote Control, Timer, Waterproof, Works with Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT, FCC and ETL Certified
More Info
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
For Outdoor and Indoor: IP44 weatherproof housing. Ideal for Garden, Backyard, Kitchen, Bathroom, Porch, Balcony, Garage, Basement, Patio or Electric grill, Sprinkler, Washing machine, Christmas tree, Landscape lighting, Fountains, Lamps, Pumps and other outdoor or indoor-use electric appliances, etc.
Remote and Voice Control: Control the two sockets individually from anywhere anytime. ONLY supports Meross app. Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT, simply use your voice command to control each individual socket. All data is securely transmitted and stored using Amazon AWS servers in US.
Schedule and Timmer Setting: You can schedule each socket to turn on and off automatically. Added benefit of saving energy when the plugged-in appliances are not needed or are left on by accident. Support sunrise and sunset setting.
Possible homebrew uses – control brewing pump, turn on and off carboy washer [review] turn on and off your draft cleaning pump – See: Recirculating Draft Line Cleaning Pump. Always be cautious when using your brewing pump with hot liquids and always read and follow manufacturer’s specifications and directions.
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.
TILT Bluetooth Hydrometer via High Gravity Fermentation Supplies
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
Designed for home brewing, the Tilt hydrometer lets you instantly read your brew’s specific gravity and temperature on your compatible Apple iPhone/iPad or Android smartphone/tablet or Tilt Pi. Most Bluetooth 4.0+ devices will work with the Tilt. You can then optionally save the data automatically to the cloud using Tilt’s free Google Sheets template or other 3rd party cloud platforms. See the App section for more detail.
Tilt’s goal is to help home brewers brew better beer. The Tilt hydrometer allows you to check the specific gravity and temperature of your beer while it’s fermenting, without ever having to open your fermenter or pour out any of your precious brew. This makes brewing more consistent and easy to track.
Here are some of the new features of the Tilt:
Range: Better reception and range. With the increased transmission power your Tilt will send data through larger, thicker-walled fermenters.
Precision: Upgraded sensors. With an improved temperature sensor and accelerometer your Tilt will operate with more precision.
Efficiency: We’ve reduced power consumption so more brews, less battery.
New Look: Newly designed custom circuit board and harness.
If using multiple Tilt hydrometers for different batches of fermenting beer you must use a different color for each batch. The app will not read multiple hydrometers of the same color.
Each Tilt comes calibrated and ready to go with a pre-installed battery that lasts 12-24 months depending on usage. Just download the free app, sanitize your Tilt, drop in your fermenter, and start taking readings with your phone, tablet, or Tilt Pi.
The specific gravity is accurate +/- 0.002 within the Tilt’s range of 0.990 to 1.120. The thermometer is accurate +/- 1 degree F (+/- 0.5 degree C).
Save 15% To celebrate 15 years in business High Gravity Fermentation Supply is discounting most things sitewide by 15%. This is a very rare across the board sale. Applies to nearly everything with a some exceptions. Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Please note that product prices and availability are subject to change. Prices and availability were accurate at the time this this post was published; however, they may differ from those you see when you visit the product page. Check the product page for current price, description and availability.
Update: This promo has expired or pricing, availability or description has changed – Check the supplier’s site or product page for current availability
TILT Bluetooth Hydrometer via High Gravity Fermentation Supplies
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
Designed for home brewing, the Tilt hydrometer lets you instantly read your brew’s specific gravity and temperature on your compatible Apple iPhone/iPad or Android smartphone/tablet or Tilt Pi. Most Bluetooth 4.0+ devices will work with the Tilt. You can then optionally save the data automatically to the cloud using Tilt’s free Google Sheets template or other 3rd party cloud platforms. See the App section for more detail.
Tilt’s goal is to help home brewers brew better beer. The Tilt hydrometer allows you to check the specific gravity and temperature of your beer while it’s fermenting, without ever having to open your fermenter or pour out any of your precious brew. This makes brewing more consistent and easy to track.
Here are some of the new features of the Tilt:
Range: Better reception and range. With the increased transmission power your Tilt will send data through larger, thicker-walled fermenters.
Precision: Upgraded sensors. With an improved temperature sensor and accelerometer your Tilt will operate with more precision.
Efficiency: We’ve reduced power consumption so more brews, less battery.
New Look: Newly designed custom circuit board and harness.
If using multiple Tilt hydrometers for different batches of fermenting beer you must use a different color for each batch. The app will not read multiple hydrometers of the same color.
Each Tilt comes calibrated and ready to go with a pre-installed battery that lasts 12-24 months depending on usage. Just download the free app, sanitize your Tilt, drop in your fermenter, and start taking readings with your phone, tablet, or Tilt Pi.
The specific gravity is accurate +/- 0.002 within the Tilt’s range of 0.990 to 1.120. The thermometer is accurate +/- 1 degree F (+/- 0.5 degree C).
Free T-Shirt! To celebrate 15 years in business High Gravity Fermentation Supply is throwing in a free 15th anniversary t-shirt with orders of $75 or more. I’m not seeing any exclusions, although some items may be excluded. Enter the code HoppyXV when checking out.
Important: High Gravity says… “Please indicate if you want a men’s or ladies’ and what size in the comments section of the checkout.” Remember Code Enter the code HoppyXV when checking out.
Update: This promo has expired or pricing, availability or description has changed – Check the supplier’s site or product page for current availability
PLAATO Airlock – WiFi Fermentation Analyzer for Homebrewing
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
FERMENTATION ANALYZER. Plaato is the world’s first non-invasive fermentation analyzer.
WIFI-CONNECTED. Get access to the fermentation straight on your phone from wherever you are.
MEASURES: Specific Gravity + Fermentation Activity + Alcohol Content + Temperature
UNIQUE BATCH REPORTS. From every batch a unique batch report will be generated. Helps you keep track of your work and progress.
RED DOT AWARD WINNER 2018. “The technically and aesthetically sophisticated design of Plaato brings the airlock traditionally used in beer brewing into the digital age”. – The Red-Dot Jury.
Kegtron Smart Keg Monitor – Dual Tap Expansion Unit | Track Your Keg Levels From Your Phone | Upgrade Your Taps
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
UPGRADE YOUR TAPS – Wirelessly monitor your kegerator or taps at the bar
ALL ON YOUR PHONE – Monitor all of your kegs from your phone or tablet
STOP THE GUESSWORK – Don’t be surprised by empty kegs. Track volume served, volume remaining, servings remaining and more
QUICK AND EASY – Install it yourself quickly and clean-in-place with your beverage lines
EXPANDABLE – Add expansion monitors to grow as needed. Works with small kegerators to large bars & restaurants
Kegtron Smart Keg Monitor, monitors the beers you have on tap and let’s you know how much each keg is holding. Works with a companion smart phone and tablet app.
Kegtron Smart Keg Monitor – Dual Tap Expansion Unit | Track Your Keg Levels From Your Phone | Upgrade Your Taps
From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:
UPGRADE YOUR TAPS – Wirelessly monitor your kegerator or taps at the bar
ALL ON YOUR PHONE – Monitor all of your kegs from your phone or tablet
STOP THE GUESSWORK – Don’t be surprised by empty kegs. Track volume served, volume remaining, servings remaining and more
QUICK AND EASY – Install it yourself quickly and clean-in-place with your beverage lines
EXPANDABLE – Add expansion monitors to grow as needed. Works with small kegerators to large bars & restaurants
Kegtron Smart Keg Monitor, monitors the beers you have on tap and let’s you know how much each keg is holding. Works with a companion smart phone and tablet app.
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.
Kegtron Smart Keg Monitor
Let’s face it, some homebrew gear is purely a luxury item. You’ll hear people ask, “Yeah, but how does that make your beer better?” Sometimes you can rationalize your flashy gear because it allows your brew process to be more repeatable, or take less time. Kegtron doesn’t make your beer taste better, it doesn’t improve your brew process, and it doesn’t make your brew day faster. But it’s something more than just brewery bling.
When I first saw the Kegtron keg monitor, it seemed just like a silly way to part homebrewers from their money. It looked cool, but it definitely didn’t seem like something I’d get excited about. And then I tried it.
Kegtron sells 2 models. One for a single tap, one for a dual. The measurement is done by some fancy digital flow meters inside the housing of the unit. There is a circuit board that keeps track of how much beer goes through the flow meters and stores that data on the board. It also has a Bluetooth transmitter that broadcasts this information to an app on your phone/tablet that you’ve paired through the app.
Since the flow meters just keep track of how much beer goes past them, you have to enter into the app how much beer you start with. You hook up your keg, tell it how many gallons are in it, and it tracks from there, deducting beers each time it measures 12 ounces has gone by. It’s customizable, so if you want to count beers by the pint (U.S. or Imperial) instead of 12 oz. bottle, you can do that. The display on the app tells you how many “drinks” are left in the keg. And since you also input to the app what size your keg is (2.5 gallon, 5 gallon, 1/2 barrel, etc.), along with telling you how many beers are left, it has a colorful graphic to show what percentage of your keg is left.
In the app, you can name each of your beers, so if you have more than one Kegtron tap being monitored, they all show up on your screen and you can keep track of each beer with its own space on your display. Since the data is stored on the Kegtron unit itself, and it uses Bluetooth to communicate to your app, if you leave the house and get out of Bluetooth range, you don’t see your beer lists. So it’s intended to be a display at home next to your kegerator, or on your phone so you can direct your underlings to run downstairs and fetch you what you want from the comfort of your couch.
Kegtron provided me a single-tap unit to try out and review at home. I saw it on display at Homebrew Con in Portland, displaying a club’s list of taps and their various stages of keg emptiness. I wasn’t sure that in a less busy setting it would provide the same value. What I found was it got me excited about what I had on tap (like I needed help). It was cool watching it accurately count down the drinks with each glass filled. I have a 4-tap keezer, and I found myself gravitating to whatever I had on the tap with the Kegtron just because it was fun. After a couple weeks I found myself wanting it on all of my taps. It was just so cool, and suddenly seemingly useful to know exactly how much beer was left in each tap. I was a convert.
Brew Timer in Action
Water Adjustment Tool
Brew Session Data Entry and Realtime Statistics
Adding Brewing Notes on Brew Day- Typos Optional
Tilt Data Logging Linked to Batch Record – 
Tilt Data Plot on Smartphone with Data Smoothing On
Recipe Builder with Visual Beer Stats vs Style Guidelines
Yeast Starter Calculator Pop-up
