Single bucket Method?

[Sloseph]

Hi Guys

I did a search and I couldn't find anything about this so apologise if it has been asked before

While I was reading a guide online it mentioned "the single bucked method" but gave no details on in, I was wondering if someone could give me a little more information on it

basically, Im planning to start my 1st brew very soon, I have purchased a Tom Caxton Real Ale can thing, I also have a 5 gallon fermenting bucket, a warming belt and some sort of pipe that looks like it can be used to siphon out of the bucket

I acquired the equipment from my dad I was just wondering if it is possible to do a successful brew with this equipment or will I need to buy some other things?

Thanks

 

[WelshPaul]

I started off doing all of mine in a single 25l bucket, both primary and secondary fermentation, and they worked just fine. The only reason I rack the beer into a second bucket is to remove most of the trub, but this is by no means necessary.
The only "must have" things that I would add to your list is a tap for the bucket to avoid the risk of oxidising the beer when it comes to kegging or bottling, and a hydrometer and test tube for measuring OG. Other than that, you look good to go.

 

[Hollow Legs]

I don't know what the single bucket method is for sure but if you had another 25ltr bucket you can do a secondary fermentation and also batch prime, maybe look up those words in the search engine.

You wouldn't do any harm getting an hydrometer, thermometer, paddle or spoon or an airlock. Although these are not necessary they will help you in the long run.

Also you will need bottles or a Keg.

Have fun

Colin. :

 

[WelshPaul]

Yes, if you get a second FV for fermenting or bottling/batch priming, be sure to get a "little bottler". Probably the best six quid I spent in my equipment!

 

[Sloseph]

Yes, if you get a second FV for fermenting or bottling/batch priming, be sure to get a "little bottler". Probably the best six quid I spent in my equipment!

sorry complete newb to this, whats an FV?

 

[TheMumbler]

FV = Fermentation Vessel (i.e. your plastic bucket)

I would second the recommendation to put a little bottler on your shopping list, they are well worth the money. Having a bottling bucket makes life easier and IMO is definitely worth the investment but it isn't essential.

 

[Sloseph]

Thanks for all your help so far guys it’s really appreciated :)

Just got a couple more questions

1. When Im adding the wort into the bucket what sort of temperature does the water need to be at?

2. when I have put everything in the bucket to ferment does the lid need to be shut tightly or just resting, I have read a few things thats says air needs to get out but not in which I don't really understand

3. I have seen that the best thing to use to sanitize is iodophor but I couldn't find it in the super market and I have no idea where to get it from, is there an alternative I could use?

Thanks :)

 

[tubthumper]

iodophor is from the chemist go to your local one and ask them to get it for you
as for the lid you can jut rest it on top when fermenting or you can close it tight with an air lock to let the c02 out not air
the c02 will protect the wort from air as its hevier and wil sit on the brew
but you dont want anything droping in like flies and dust so lid on is best

 

[Hollow Legs]

When you add the wort to the fermenting bucket(FV) you need to add boiling water, so it dilutes the wort and sugar (you must stir the wort and sugar with a sterilised spoon or paddle to help it), usually a kettle full will do, you need to judge the amount of hot water to cold water you add because the end result is the correct temperature for the yeast to be added usually around +/-22degC it is quite crucial to give the wort a good stir and the end product after topping up the FV is a nice froth on top and a temp of around 22degC and no higher than 30degC so you can add the yeast.

I agree with TubThumper A lid is not necessary but I would advise it and use an airlock so you can see what is happening until you have a few brews under your belt and then you can try new things as your confidence grows.

 

[Sloseph]

thanks guys, really do appreciate the help, there is far too much conflicting guides on the net with people using different kit

its nice to get advice from real people :)