Jeff Flowers on July 16, 2014 4 Comments Making the decision to start brewing your own beer is an exciting one but can also seem quite daunting. With all the different pieces of equipment and ingredients out there, it’s hard to know what’s absolutely necessary, what’s recommended, and what’s completely optional. To help you get started, we’ve broken it down into those exact three categories for you: What You NEED to Get Started If you’re a beginner, you’re probably wondering, “What do I need to get started?” At this stage, you may not want any of the bells and whistles but you do need the essentials. Here is exactly what you’ll need for your first 5 gallon yield brew: 6.5 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with Lid Hydrometer (these can be tricky, here’s how to use one) Airlock Auto-Siphon Bottling Bucket w/ Spigot Sanitizer Large Spoon Stock Pot Grain Bag Ingredient Kit (wondering what’s in one of these? Click here to learn more. If you plan on bottling: Bottles Bottle Brush Bottle Caps Bottle Capper If you plan on kegging: Cornelius Keg Homebrew Kegerator You can usually find these components, or a variation of such, in one of our many Homebrew Equipment Kits. For more information on which equipment kit is best for you, be sure to read this article. What You SHOULD Get to Make Things Easier Although these products aren’t absolutely necessary, they do make brewing easier. If you’re on your 3rd or so brew, it’s probably worth investing in these helpful extras. 6 Gallon Carboy Carboy Brush Stopper Another Airlock Bi-Metal Thermometer Hydrometer Test Jar Beer Thief Some of these components are included in an upgraded equipment kit while they are all available for individual purchase. What’s Really Cool but Totally OPTIONAL Go big or go home, right? Here are some of the cooler gadgets out there that every diehard homebrewer should own. These are not necessary to brew beer, but absolutely make it easier for you to do. Carboy Drainer Carboy Handle Jet Bottle Washer & Faucet Adapter Hop Bag Cornelius Keg Homebrew Kegerator Pail Opening Tool Anti-Splash Funnel A Good Book If you’re wondering how one or more of these items can make your brewing process easier, read our article on helpful homebrewing components. Homebrewing How-To Articles: How to Bottle Your Own Beer How to Force Carbonate Your Beer How to Use a Hydrometer in 4 Easy Steps How to Use an Immersion Wort Chiller
Vicki says January 22, 2015 at 3:42 pm I love reading your info…..have you written any books yet? Reply
