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Topping off in a secondary

NDeselle

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Joined
Aug 26, 2010
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Location
North Texas
Since I always do my primary ferment in a 5 gallon carboy, I lose about a half gallon in the blow off.  Has anyone ever boiled then cooled some top off water at this point or should I just quit being lame and buy a 6 gallon carboy?

I am pretty sure that it will dilute the beer more than its worth but I was just wondering.

Thanks,

Nathan
 
I wouldn't add water at the secondary.  Either buy a 6 gallon carboy or be happy with 4.5 gallons.

David
 
I would have to agree, Don't add to the secondary. I use a 6.5 as primary and use my 5 for secondary.

Cheers
Preston
 
I figured but it was worth a question.  As soon as i can find a 6 gallon carboy here in DFW then I'll grab it up.  For now, I'll be happy with the 4.5 net.  As long as I always have beer, I'll be happy.

Thanks,
 
Or a large bucket is fine for primary.  Still usually cheaper than the Italian carboys we're limited to now.
 
NDeselle said:
I figured but it was worth a question.  As soon as i can find a 6 gallon carboy here in DFW then I'll grab it up.  For now, I'll be happy with the 4.5 net.  As long as I always have beer, I'll be happy.

Thanks,

Here in D/FW, both <a href="http://homebrewhq.com/Default.aspx">Homebrew Headquarters</a> in Richardson and <a href="http://www.finevinewines.com/default.aspx">The Winemaker's Toy Store</a> in Carrollton have 6 and 6.5 gallon carboys. Glass or Better Bottle. Both reasonable prices.

Scott
 
I often check classifieds for things that could be used for brewing, and got lucky last year.  I found dude selling a monster glass carb that allows me to ferment 6 to 6.5 gallons with enough head room to not worry about a blowout.  This allows me to top off my secondary with nothing but the good stuff.

Check the classifieds a couple times a month.  You might find a jewel in the rough.
 
Thanks Scott!  I'll make a point of stopping into one of these shops next time I venture into the city.

Nathan
 
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