Just FYI re: my setup. I have a turkey fryer and propane tank; even during the winter months I will probably step out onto my porch and brew out there. I want to end up with 5 gallon batches so I'll be doing anywhere from, say, 6-7.5 gallon boils.
I don't want to spend an arm and a leg on a brew pot either but I did want one with a ball valve and found these two:
http://www.williamsbrewing.com/BREWERS-EDGE-32-QUART-BREWKETTLE-P2365.aspx
http://www.williamsbrewing.com/BREWERS-EDGE-40-QUART-BREWKETTLE-P2366.aspx
I'm just trying to decide which to get: the 32-quart or the 40-quart. Any suggestions?
Cheers,
Jim
Yeah, I believe that's the one; looks like it. I've had no problems; others have used it and said they were pleased.
The only thing I found odd was that it does indeed comes with the ball valve but no hose barb. so, I just bought one from here:
http://www.bargainfittings.com/index.php?route=common/home
Hey Jim, I am looking for a 10 gal brew pot. I was thinking about purchasing the Polar Ware 42 QT Economy Graduated Brew Pot w/Stainless Ball Valve. Did you end up purchasing this brew pot, if so, how do you like it? Have you had any problems with it?
Kevin Saberniak
I feel another workshop coming on...
I have a step bit at the brew house...should be in the case unless someone moved it.
As for temp prob, I'd buy a shorter one in conjunction with a sight glass...should barely stick into the kettle that way.
I can also help at the brew house with any drilling and what not.
Do you have a aluminum or SS pot?
Step bits can be purchased at harbor freight and they have coupons for them right now...
here is a coupon:
http://www.harborfreight.com/extra-savings.html?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=4411a&utm_source=1002
Also if you need weldless fittings..these guys seem to have the best pricing...barginfittings.com...they also have thermometers...
http://www.bargainfittings.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=91
Hope this helps...
Thanks! I had several people tell me they have a Polarware pot and like it. I'll go with this one!
enash7070 said:
OK, this thread has me all ginned up to install a ball valve and maybe a thermometer on my brew pot. Problem is, I don't have a step bit or any experience working with metals and don't want to ruin my brew pot. Is anyone interested in working on a project with me? Also, does anyone with a thermometer installed on their brew pot find that the probe makes it difficult to get their immersion chiller into the pot? I built my own chiller, and unlike some of the smaller ones you see in home brew shops, it's pretty much the same diameter as my pot. Oh, and how do you sanitize the ball valve? Do you have to disassemble and soak before each brew?
(Sorry for the thread hijack)
Jim,
here is a Polarware 42qt SS pot with SS ball valve for $129...I bought my CO2 regulator from them and they have fast shipping...
http://www.birdmanbrewing.com/42-qt-economy-graduated-brew-pot-w-stainless-ball-valve/?utm_source=Birdman+Brewing+Company+Newsletter&utm_campaign=34afebd39d-November_Newsletter10_25_2011&utm_medium=email
Not sure if 60qt is too big...but this guy sells SS 60qt with two welded nipples $135ea....he is in milwaukee. The link is from philly but he posts on craiglists all over....
http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/for/2577811225.html
sounds flimsy from the reviews but should be fine if you're careful with it. I tend to think that bigger is better always.
if aluminum is an option, many ethnic grocery store have big pots for really cheap, in the $20 - $30 range.
Niilo Hayes said:
...igz...
you can add valves, sight glasses and temp probes - all pretty easy with a step drill and whatever parts u need from here
I"m looking for a ball valve, too, though, don't forget. Easier transfer to carboy.
My 32 cost like $55. Maybe less. Let me try to remember where I got it...
Thanks! I appreciate it!
Yeah, the one I have is aluminum. It's only 4 gallons, though. I'd like to be able to do full boils...
I don't mind paying $100, though. It's actually going to be a birthday and/or Christmas gift from my girlfriend; that's why I was shopping around. :-)
I would go 40. I have a 32 and have to boil off a decent amount since I almost always end up with more than 7.5 gallons of wort. I need a 40 but have been lazy about it. I know you can find them cheaper than that too. Atleast for aluminum. I use aluminum and have no problems. Isn't your pot now aluminum? I'll try to dig some stuff up for you.