Recommendations for new home brewer

[Andy]

You need also to ensure that the hole is high enough so that the backnut can be fitted to the tap threads!

It's very easy with a holesaw. Just remember to measure twice and cut once!

[Orfy]

What is the perceived wisdom about DIY holes in fermentation bins...don't want to ruin mine...but then again want to make the job as easy as possible!

One big one at the top comes in handy!

[shropshirelad]

Whilst on the subject of holes. Would you advise cutting a hole in the lid and using an airlock or just put the lid on but not tight?

[shropshirelad]

Got tap and all ready to go. Then I just noticed diameter of end of tap far too big for syphon tubing. Have I bought the wrong sort of tap (I think it is for a cheap keg) or doesn't this matter. Any tips?

[PieOPah]

Not the wrong type of tap, the wrong size tubing. You will probably need 1/2 inch tubing.

Best advice is to take the tap to you HBS and ask for tubing that will fit the end.

If you ordered online (which is what I did) call up the store and ask them what size you need.

When I called (can't remember which ) they didn't know so went out and tried until they found a snug fit.

[shropshirelad]

Been looking at The Hop Shop website. Excellent! Under the wine section there is a fermenter tap. Straight thread for end nut rather than tapered as on the one I had got...Same size opening etc but probably more rigid. Tubing needed is half inch.

[Andy]

A tip for converting between tubing sizes when fitting to taps etc is to use short stubs of tubing with smaller diameter tube fitted inside the next size tubing up. You can step up/down several diameter sizes this way.

I know DaaB's got a picture which makes it obvious what I'm talking about

[shropshirelad]

Thanks for all that good advice.

Started brewing my Wherry and 6 days later all going well (I think). Beer is in fermenting bin and I was planning to leave for another 4 or 5 days before transferring to a keg.

I was thinking of adding some finings. Is this procedure ok...say add to fermenting bin on Friday and then keg a couple of days later. Or should i transfer to keg and then add finings? Or is it just a matter of preference?

[shropshirelad]

Those look really good and should help make the job a bit easier.
What about finings?

[StrangeBrew]

I'm not sure you'll need finnings, I did a Wherry just before Chimbo and it went crystal clear without any added help, just moved it to a cool place.

One thing though, when the temp droped down really low it developed a chill haze but when the ambient temp of the shed warmed a little it cleared again.