Stuck Ferment or Sticky Airlock?

[Bertie Doe]

On a number of occasions, is seems that the ferment stalls early. The indicator being a high i.g. and stationary bubbles in airlock. Before adding another yeast starter, try adding to the airlock, one drop of washing-up detergent, diluted in a teaspoon of warm water. It seems to free the surface tension of existing bubbles and you soon have brisk activity again.

[vacant]

I can't see how surface tension could prevent brisk activity.

Perhaps activity is reducing overnight then increasing during the day when the temperature is higher.

[IPA]

Even better idea. Use an FV with a lid and release it once fermentation is underway. Refit it and use an airlock when the ferment slows.