Need to top up with CO2?

[PaulStat]

Ok so I managed 6 bottles and just over half a keg from my first brew, now the keg has been fully primed with the sugar so over the next few weeks it should produce its own CO2, however, as you can see from the picture below it is just over half full. Should I consider topping it up myself with some of the CO2 bulbs or should I just allow it to carbonate naturally?

[BarnsleyBrewer]

I'd squirt some co2, purge it (this should force any air out because it's lighter than co2), then squirt some more in.
P.S
I'd buy a S30 adaptor with a larger type gas bottle, works out cheaper in the long run!!
http://www.hopandgrape.co.uk/catalog/ca ... no=2#items
BB

[PaulStat]

Thanks, how do you mean by purging it? How would I do this? The black thing on top is what I screw the CO2 bulbs into and then there's a button on it that will release some of the CO2 into the barrel.

[BarnsleyBrewer]

Hi
When I say purge I mean, Squirt in some co2, then unscrew the top slightly to let gas out, thighten, then gas it up again, by doing this you will leave a blanket of co2 above the brew.

John

[PaulStat]

Cool thanks, any idea how many squirts I should give it? I presume one small bulb won't fill up the empty space in the keg?

[BarnsleyBrewer]

Hi
Not sure with your type of gas system, never used it, all I could say is try a little and open the top to see if it "hisses".
I've got a pub size 70/30 gas mix so I'm never afraid to use the gas.

John

[macleanb]

Dear Mr Brewer

Do you use mixed gas for all your beers ?


cheers & ttfn benm

[BarnsleyBrewer]

Hi,
I haven't made a lager yet but I do use it on all my ales, it's especially good when used with a Guinness clone.
I know real ale buffs won't like this but I love the look of it when poured, it clears from the bottom to the top like cream flow, leaving 15mm of cream on top, just like a good Yorkshire pint should be!!

Mr. Brewer