Two boilers?

[timb]

I would like to start brewing from grain. From what I have read, two boilers seem to be needed when sparging and keeping the run-off wort at a reasonable temp at the same time. Can someone please confirm if this is the case or explain how this is achieved otherwise. Many thanks in anticipation!

[Chiltern Brewer]

Hi timb!

Having two boilers (or a boiler and HLT) is more of a luxury than a necessity. Having said that I stopped using a single boiler so long ago that I've forgotten how exactly I managed! You could try using an insulated container to either hold your sparge liquor or collect the wort?

[Jimberbob]

I keep my sparge water in an insulated bucket, if the temperature drops off slightly I just top up with boiling water from the kettle.

[timb]

Thanks! That's the only thing that I could think of as well, just needed some confirmation of my thinking! Any suggestions on boilers for a novice?

[Jimberbob]

I would go for the 10 gallon type from Hop and Grape, ( plastic bucket with element fitted.) If you want to do bigger batches in the future you can and you are ensured that your 5 gallon batch won't boil over.

[timb]

OK that's useful. There's so much information it's difficult to know where to start but I'm getting an idea now. Cheers!

[mixbrewery]

Timb - You're not that far from me in Hemel.
If you want to visit to see my setup, just let me know.

[johnmac]

I would go for the 10 gallon type from Hop and Grape, ( plastic bucket with element fitted.) If you want to do bigger batches in the future you can and you are ensured that your 5 gallon batch won't boil over.
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I must have a unique brewing talent, in that I'm able to boil over five gallons in a ten gallon boiler!