Difference between air temp and wort temp

[paulpj26]

I've noticed there is a difference between the air temp and wort temp (the temperature were measured just before racking), the air temp was 19c and the wort temp was 15c. This isn't exactly a problem because my beers ferment fine at this temp (I assume the yeast produces some of it's own heat during fermentation anyway).

I was just wondering if anyone else has experienced this and whether it would be better to try to ferment it at a warmer temp?

:thumb: :

 

[phettebs]

Yes, there's usually a difference in ambient temp and fermenting wort temp (higher) because fermentation is an exothermic process. Heat is given off during the chemical processes taking place.

In your case, your wort temp was lower than the ambient temp. Presumably, the ambient was cooler at some point or you had chilled below ambient? If I set my temp controller to 5 degrees warmer than what it was, it takes awhile for the bulk of the wort in the FV to warm up to that new temp. I wouldn't expect it to stay cooler than ambient if there are no other outside influences. It will equalize given time.

 

[paulpj26]

Cheers Barry :thumb:

The wort had finished fermenting and had been sat there for a couple of days so I would have though the temps would have been the same. I'm assuming the thermometer on my digital clock is inaccurate and my glass thermometer is correct :