Lambic barrel questions

[admin]

This barrel isn't really getting over 12.5^oC. Is that ok? These is no risk of blow-off at these low temperatures, but will everything proceed as it's supposed to?

Does the barrel need to be corked/bunged?

Do we need more heat on it? Electric blanket? The IR lamp has been on it for days now, but isn't having a huge impact.

[Eoin]

Lower is better to keep lactic acid in check it appears, but is 12.5 too low is the essential question. I'd think that once it's working with a Krausen then we're good.

iMark is the driver however and he's done the research and knows the yeast....

[imark]

As Eoin says... Krausen indicates we're good. Maybe a few more degrees would be nice but we do not want to be up at 20C yet.
If you're around this evening I could pop out. I don't have a spare electric blanket but if somebody has one we could hook her up to an stc and give the barrel a little help if needed.
We need a decent bung in my opinion. I'm happy to order one. Send me the size I need please.

[DEMPSEY]

I have a small garden stove that sits on a tripod. You fill it with wood and it throw off great heat. Any help

[Eoin]

12.5 is probably pretty good to be honest, with barrel storage it's swings and roundabouts. The barrel is in it for the long haul, sure it'll be sweating in that shed mid summer.

[Eoin]

When ye say bung, shouldn't it at least run to a blow off in a glass of water?

[imark]

There are several suitable ones on HBC website. eg. https://www.thehomebrewcompany.ie/rubber-bung-grey-d4941-9-mm-hole-p-2000.html
Pity they've none in Galway. Are you heading to Mountmellick by any chance?