Brita filters

[Reg]

I was going through the garage about a week ago and found one of these still in its box.

It seems to work well enough and does it's job quite quickly. I was thinking of using it for gallon test brews. What does it filter out and what does it leave in?

[BitterTed]

Here's a link that may or may not help. The info is old, but I think it is still accurate.
http://www.brewery.org/brewery/library/ ... a0596.html

[Road Runner]

I used this type of jug filter for the last couple of years, they work great, but painfully slow when you're doing a 5 gallon batch.

Only I wouldn't pay for the Brita name. Paying for the Brita named cartridges are a rip off at around £8 each I think. I used to get mine from a discount homeware store called QD, who seem to only be in the East Anglia region. They sell a pack of 3 cartridges for £3.98

I've checked Reg, there is a QD store in Stevenage right near you. Might save some some dosh.

[niall]

Here's a link that may or may not help. The info is old, but I think it is still accurate.
http://www.brewery.org/brewery/library/ ... a0596.html

Great link Bitterted. I've been wondering how to soften the Dublin water without taking out a degree in chemistry. I've been reading a little on water treatment but to the scientifically challenged it's a bit overwhelming.

The water in Ireland is very high in bicarbonates (typically 250-350) which makes it very suitable for mashing darker beers such as stouts - surprise, surprise. Not so for Pale Ales so I wonder if the Brita may be a good solution for mini mashing? The link mentioned that this filter does soften the water so hopefully it may be enough without resorting to brewing salts...