Not only am I a new user but I am completely new to brewing. Is it safe to ferment smaller batches in larger containers or does the liquid/air ratio negatively affect the beer? For example, one gallon of brew fermenting in a 5 gallon bucket. I want to start with small batches for a few reasons... -The space between my stove and overhead oven is probably not big enough for a 4+ gallon brew kettle -Starting out, I only have 18 bottles, I will continue to collect -If I create a bad batch I have less to waste/drink -I can have more varieties in my practical storage space -I'd like to experiment with all grain which is easier to manage in small batches I'm aware I could use a smaller fermenter but I suspect it won't be too long before I want to do bigger batches so I might as well buy a larger one now instead of upgrading later. If I absolutely must, I will buy multiple fermenters but I would rather just buy everything once. Thanks in advance!
yes, as long as it is the original fermenter (primary) and you move it carefully when ready to rack/drain. not really as long as you stay less than 5 gal...I'd start with extract and learn the basics first, but that's up to you. Fermenters are the easy part...an inexpensive bucket or growlers will suffice for all but the most status driven brewer. All of these questions, answers, and possibilities will become apparent after reading "How to Brew" by Palmer (highly recommended)....welcome
If you don't have kids, you could try sliding the stove out a little bit. That's what I do to fit my kettle under the microwave.
Thanks for your advice. I will definitely start with extract. I think I was unclear about what I meant... I didn't mean all-grain is easier as opposed to extract in small batches, I just meant small batches are easier than large ones. In other words, I would rather screw up a 1 gallon batch of all-grain rather than a 5 gallon batch. Thanks for sharing. Not only does it look like an excellent read but it's free online. Thanks again.
I wish that were possible but my stove/oven combination is one piece of equipment. Similar to this...
My portly 8 gal kettle is only 12" high and has the added bonus of straddling 2 gas burners...I think one would probably work with your setup.
I will keep my eye out for a short kettle. I also have the option of buying a propane burner but I live in Colorado so that may not be practical all year round. If I want to brew during a snow storm I will be SOL. My other option is a "hot plate" or electric burner but the more economic ones probably won't reach a boil with 3+ gallons of water, which means I have to go after a more expensive one.
Natural Gas is your best bet inside or outside...cheap, clean, no regulator required...realistically though you are limited to 5 gal batches indoors.
If I could do it all over again I would bite the bullet up front and buy a propane burner and decent size kettle. If you enjoy homebrewing you will likely want to upgrade soon anyway. Plus brewing outside in the winter isn't bad at all. I brew more in the winter than summer actually. Nothing better to do on a snowy day off.
I love brewing outside in the winter...with natural gas...propane is just too expensive. As far as kettles, the gentle NG heat indoors makes an 8 gal kettle for a 5 gal batch absolutely no problem.
