a couple of stupid questions from a beginner

1 year ago | tombed (Member)

Hiya,
Bought my first starter kit last week, just started fermenting my first batch. I do however have a few questions. I apologise in advance if they're silly!
1. The hole in the top of the fermenting bin. I have inserted the rubber ring, but do i leave it open while it ferments? Or do I insert that transparent 2-piece air lock thing in it?
2. Adding sugar. I notice on the side of the beer pack, it says something like "when transferring to the barrel, add a little sugar (0.5 teaspoons for every pint)". So for 40 pints, I add 20 teaspoons of sugar?? Not exactly "a little sugar"! I just wanted to check if I have read this correctly

Many thanks in advance,

Tom

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Responses

Tony:

Posted 1 year ago by Member

Hi tombed
You can put the fermentation lock in if you wish with a little water so you can see the bubbles and know that it is fermenting. Lots of people don't bother though and just put the lid on loosely. I always fit a fermentation lock right from the beginning as I like to be sure nothing nasty can get in there - it's just one of those things that people will never agree on! When the beer is fermenting it creates a blanket of CO2 over the top which can pretty much protect it from anything - however, you don't want anything nasty dropping in so put a lid on just to cover it if you decide to go without the lock.

You're right with the sugar ... with a 25 ltr batch (40 pints) I usually add about 100g of sugar - but your measurement of 20 teaspoons should do it too

Beer will get you through the times of no money better than money will get you through the times of no beer
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