Hi
Would like to get into All grain brewing (BIAB initially), primarily interested in Ales, but may do the odd Pilsner/larger/stout in the future. Batch volumes would be in the 20-30 litre mark.
Still a newby and am trying to expand my knowledge whilst collecting equipment that will last and I can build upon (but without a huge cost). So looking for a little advice...
As I live in Galway with it's wet n'windy weather indoor (kitchen) brewing seems like the only option (no shed/garage). Indoor gas boilers seem to be very expensive so thinking electric....
From what I've read the Electrim Digital Mashing/boiling bin (http://www.pecoservices.co.uk/digital-mashingboiling-bin---eb1d-30-p.asp (http://www.pecoservices.co.uk/digital-mashingboiling-bin---eb1d-30-p.asp)) is a good option and provides easy control of temperatures etc. I have two concerns though, the capacity and the fact the bin is plastic......
So here's the question....
Was thinking of buying a 50l stock pot (eg https://www.thehomebrewcompany.ie/50l-stainless-steel-stock-pot-p-1947.html (https://www.thehomebrewcompany.ie/50l-stainless-steel-stock-pot-p-1947.html)) and fitting the Electrim digital mashing bin upgrade kit (http://www.homebrewcentre.co.uk/electrim-digital-mashing-bin-upgrade-kit (http://www.homebrewcentre.co.uk/electrim-digital-mashing-bin-upgrade-kit)) and Electrim Spare Element and Collar (http://www.homebrewcentre.co.uk/electrim-spare-element-and-collar (http://www.homebrewcentre.co.uk/electrim-spare-element-and-collar)). Then will wrap the stock pot in lagging.
Have seen a few youtube videos of people installing elements into stainless stock pots etc and it doesn't look too hard (just need to drill a couple of holes) and as the upgrade kits include all required parts thought this would be fairly straight forward.
Anyone any advice, is this a reasonable idea or hair brained scheme doomed to failure?
Cheers
K
Buy a BIAB starter kit from one of the shops. Cut your teeth with that and then use the electric boiler as a hlt when you progress and make your own kit.
Metal Pots need to be earthed plastic ones don't.
If you are on a budget use 2 elements and convert a keg
There is a good quality cooler mash tun and wort chiller for sale in the sale section . Dublin based.
If I did not have already built one, I would have it. Its way better than mine..
I was going to go the keggle route but got a used 40ltr buffalo boiler for €70 and some voile material in pennys €4