First ferment in 5 Gallon Demi-John

[brooky]

Hi Guys,

Go easy I'm a noob still. :)

I wanted to do a fermentation in a glass demi-john to see whats going on. :P It's a 5 gallon glass one. My issue is that I was supposed to add 23 litres of water but I was too worried to add the last 4 litres as there isn't enough space to ferment.

Should I add the last 4 litres when I move it to second ferment or just not bother?

 

[brooky]

Here is a photo

 

[Moley]

I assume you mean add water TO 23 litres rather than add 23 litres.

Anyway, you've done the right thing in only filling that carboy to the shoulder.

As fermentation starts to quieten down after a few days and the froth on top diminishes, then you can start to top up. Do it in stages though, add a litre, if it seems safe after a few hours / the next day, add another.

 

[boab42stout]

love the blow off tube i got the same fermenter it takes a little getting used to

 

[Moley]

Blow off tubes into water bottles are very noisy though.

I don't think I would ever trust myself with a glass carboy, too ham fisted, I will stick with plastics.

 

[brooky]

Thanks folks. I suppose it's right then. A 3kg kit is already three litres right? So adding 20 litres of water brings it to 23 litres?!

In the past I always added 23 litres as well as the malt!

 

[Blueface]

Thanks folks. I suppose it's right then. A 3kg kit is already three litres right? So adding 20 litres of water brings it to 23 litres?!

In the past I always added 23 litres as well as the malt!

Make up to 23 litres or less or you will water it down