I have heard numerous theory's about what to put in the airlock during primary fermentation. I've only used water. Anybody do any different?
I too use water in my airlocks. Other options are sanitizing solution (e.g., Star San), clear liquor (e.g., Vodka), ... I have been homebrewing for over 20 years and using water has worked for me. Cheers!
I use starsan solution and avoid suck back by gradually raising temp throughout the duration of primary.
I use vodka or sanitizer. Never water just on the off chance it could be carrying something undesirable with it.
water and a splash of cheap vodka, if it can remember. AND if I bother to use an airlock. I have had the unfortunate experience of a fruit fly or two floating mere inches from my wort though, so I probably should be more diligent.
I use a blow off and just tap water. When I use an airlock I spray StarSan into it from the bottom of the S-lock to ensure that the section that could potentially come into contact with my wort is sanitized.
I've only used water for 25 years (45 years if you also consder fermentation locks on wine fermenters) and never had a problem. Adding Vodka, etc. is an unnecessary overkill, IMO. I've never had the water in the lock suck back into the fermenter. I do use StarSan to spray the lock before I insert it. In the past, I soaked the entire lock in some bleach water and then rinsed it with water.
I've always used tap water with no problem. Bear Grylls uses his own urine but I would not recommend that.
What is the worst is my sanitized solution accidentally makes it into the beer during fermentation? About a teaspoon full....
Just use foil, open ferment changes yeast a bit, ive read tidbits about it helping avoid stalls Anecdotally ive never had stall issues with the infamous 3724 and if my memory serves me I think ive discussed this with @drewbage and @hopfenunmaltz who have noticed similar things - If I'm thinking of someone else please let me know
