Protecting Element

[PieOPah]

My last 2 boils have been less than adequate. The element cuts out just as a rolling boil is reached. Obviously this is extremely frustrating.

I clean the element as much as possible after every brew and I have tested it in water (doesn't cut out at all when boiling water).

After a boil the element is caked in what I can only assume to be burnt wort. I have no idea why it is suddenly starting to happen as it has never been an issue in the past.

Is there anything I can do to try and protect the element?

Thanks.

[PieOPah]

The first of the 2 brews there was little or no clarity to my run off (stuck mash and lots of frustration). My last brew did have quite a lot of added sugar but wasn't that high a gravity (due to low efficiency).

I'll give it another go with a lower gravity and try and get a nice clear run off and see if that helps.

[Andy]

Have you tried removing the element cutout strip ?

[guildofevil]

This happened to me too. The issue, I found, was lime scale build-up on the element providing a surface for stuff to burn on.

What do you use to clean your element? I use a vinegar soaked washing up sponge, which seems to remove lime scale fairly well.

Séan

[danielski]

I used 'Limelight' limescale remover last time - worked well but left a bit of residual lime-smell which I think has finally gone after a LOT of rinsing.

[guildofevil]

I know! Just put a Calgon tablet into every brew!

[PieOPah]

I use Citric Acid to clean my element and it is always nice and shiny before my next brew.

Next time I use sugar I'll ensure I wait until the end before I put it in.

Thanks all.