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Grainfather review after 100 brews and my modifications

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  • čas přidán 23. 08. 2017
  • So I recently brewed my 100th brew with my grainfather and for some time now people have been asking why it is that I have so many videos in regards to the system and yet not one of them is a review?
    I also get asked alot about the modifications that I have made to my system and can I make a video showing them?
    This video should keep all of those people happy and hopefully also give potential new users a 100% disclosure review from a long term user.
    I do hope people find this video interesting and feel free to ask any questions you may have in the usual places.
    Many thanks to everyone in the community for your continued kindness and support of my videos. If you have any subjects or beer styles that I havent covered that you are interested in then please do let me know.
    Channel links:-
    groups/Brewbeer
    www.teespring....
    Introduction music:- Drink Beer (Till The Day That I Die) by Dazie Mae

Komentáře • 200

  • @rspaulding
    @rspaulding Před 4 měsíci +1

    To keep that rubber cap on the filter, I just rotate the whole filter 180 deg so that the cap is wedged between the filter and the temp probe housing. It's tight and nothing can knock it off.

  • @StuartEvans
    @StuartEvans Před 5 lety +2

    Hi David,
    Set my new Grainfather equipment up today and made the mods you've recommended. Just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to make your 100 Brews video, as it will no doubt avert disaster before it occurs.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety +1

      Great to hear Stuart, there are more mods available like camlock conversion and a false bottom that I have shown more recently :) These are great ways to improve the system further also :)

    • @StuartEvans
      @StuartEvans Před 5 lety

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew I've just pre-ordered them too!

  • @frankspeijers5586
    @frankspeijers5586 Před 7 lety +1

    I have brewed 43 times with the Grain Father.
    I am very pleased.
    2 things brook.
    1. rubber hose from the filter.
    Easy to order at the GF shop.
    2.maximum thermostat.
    Email sent to GF, they did not have it in stock.
    Keep up the good work David.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety +1

      They will replace anything that does go wrong, I am surprised to hear about the lack of stock. Ive always heard of people having problems fixed very quickly.

  • @mervynborjanovic1374
    @mervynborjanovic1374 Před 7 lety +2

    David, congratulations on reaching the milestone. I'm 85 brews behind you with my Grainfather and picking up the pace. I find that having the same equipment and reproducing your brews,I can better appreciate your tasting videos. Keep them coming.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +Mervyn Borjanovic Thank you :) Good to hear, I plan on releasing shorter but more frequent tasting videos.

  • @leonlvvik1651
    @leonlvvik1651 Před 6 lety +2

    Just bought my Grainfather brewing machine today! I'm very excited to give it a go, and I'll be looking through your videos for tips. You have really pleasant informative videos.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Awesome to hear :) Plenty of videos on my channel to keep you busy! Check out the playlists, I've got them organized :)

    • @TheGavranatar
      @TheGavranatar Před 5 lety +1

      How has it been Leon?

  • @andrewberry9356
    @andrewberry9356 Před 3 lety +1

    Mate i'm a Scot in NZ and listening to you I've come to this conclusion....you're a suvern Morgan Freeman- awesome! As a newb to brewing and having recently got hold of a grainfather a huge thanks for your efforts in helping brewers out!!!!

  • @ShortCircuitedBrewers
    @ShortCircuitedBrewers Před 7 lety +11

    You do a great job David! I have recommended people to come over and watch your videos. I don't get to watch them all..(you are a mad man lol) but everything I have seen is top notch! I know what it takes to put these type of videos out! Brew on! Cheers! 17! Prost! 🍻 -Brian

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety +1

      Thanks alot Brain, very nice of you to do that and to say so :) Yes it does take alot of time but I really enjoy giving back and making these videos :)

    • @ShortCircuitedBrewers
      @ShortCircuitedBrewers Před 7 lety +1

      Same here David! Cheers!🍻

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety +1

      I can see that from your videos, nice content :)

  • @chrisnewman861
    @chrisnewman861 Před 7 lety +1

    I'm a new fan of your videos David and have been slowly getting through them all, with the idea of translating the valued information to a Robobrew system. But after watching this video you've converted me, I'll save the extra money and go the Grainfather. As they say, you get what you pay for. Thanks for the inspiration, great review.

  • @knoxovic
    @knoxovic Před 7 lety +1

    Another useful video, thanks David. Took the plunge on a grainfather about a month ago after plenty of research, a fair amount of it via your channel. Keep the content coming :)

  • @ericthilges5419
    @ericthilges5419 Před 7 lety +2

    Still the best Grainfather info & videos on CZcams! I've enjoyed watching all of your content and making the same changes to my setup. (including the wooden mash paddle as seen in the last couple vids)

  • @paskrell
    @paskrell Před 3 lety +2

    That’s over 2000 liters. Time for medical check up. Thx for yet another great video

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 lety +1

      Haha yes, though most of my beer is drunk by friends and family:) glad you enjoyed this one :)

  • @crowtservo
    @crowtservo Před 4 lety +1

    Great idea about the sink strainer, I’m stopping to get one today for my next Grainfather brew. I’ve used it for one brew so far and I was insanely happy with it. If you got $1000 sitting around, I would recommend this system.

  • @walruss60
    @walruss60 Před 7 lety +2

    Hi David, another great video. I'm still using the original controller and i've never had any of the problems others say they have had. So far So good. cheers

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +RackOff Brewing Yup, people with issues are generally using the wrong graincrush or aren't whirlpooling

  • @clarkelongbottom9021
    @clarkelongbottom9021 Před 7 lety +2

    cheers david another cracking video, thanks to your reviews and help my grainfather is now ordered and on its way ,cant wait ,feel like a big kid :}

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety +1

      +Clarke Longbottom Great, glad you liked the video. I am sure you will be very happy with your GF.

  • @lukewebber5562
    @lukewebber5562 Před 3 lety +1

    Love your work, David. My Grainfather Pro and conical fermenter arrived yesterday, along with sundry extras, and I'm look forward to my first brewday (your juicy NEIPA). Should be this weekend if my Tilt hydrometer makes it through the lockdown delivery crush. I'm looking to get every advantage, because I'm a complete novice, though a very experienced consumer. ;^)

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 lety

      Great to hear Luke, thank you :)
      Sounds like you are well prepared there, it will certainly help!

  • @benfuller3073
    @benfuller3073 Před 5 lety +1

    Great Video, I'm on brew 31 and loving it. Main issue I have is forgetting to put on the pump filter and realizing once the water is up to temp, may have to add the circlip mod :-)
    Build & functionality of the unit is fantastic, as is the brew.grainfather online software. I design the recipe in beersmith before uploading it to the grainfather platform, works well.

  • @Marketer_Maven
    @Marketer_Maven Před 7 lety +1

    Very informative and concise David answered all the questions I had too.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +Terry Glass Great, if you can think of anything later then fire away :)

  • @DerekGoude
    @DerekGoude Před 6 lety +1

    Awesome intro and greatly appreciate the content. I have been looking at the Grainfather and have been unsure.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      +Derek Goude Glad it helped you Derek. Lots more videos on my channel, mostly that are GF specific. New users find the three hints and tips collection videos very useful in learning quickly.

  • @steffenbrygg7907
    @steffenbrygg7907 Před 7 lety +1

    The Grainfather got some issues, but you can work around them. Just search about the safety valve that gunks up (removed mine). I often unscrew the ball valve when removing the recirc arm or chiller. I've removed the filter, it just stops grain matter for getting pumped to the top for filtering through the grain bed. The malt pipe is to narrow to get a good grain bed filtration going, but that is a problem all similar sized brew system has. The pump could have been stronger. The Connect is awesome, but the android app sucks. Some better connections, quick disconnects on the chiller and rise tube. They could have added a fine mesh plate similar to the braumeister.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +Steffen Brygg Ive never had any issues. Those that do tend to either be milling their grain too finely or are not whirlpooling. The pump is great, ive even extended my wort out and have brought the hose up to the ceiling and down and it stay has enough power. I cannot see how the malt pipe is too small, with the right techniques you can easily get high brewhouse efficiency, grain bed filtration is perfectly acceptable. Sure the Android app needs some catch up but then I use an Ipad or iPhone, so that has no effect on my experience:) Quick connects would be nice but would be easy to add. Having said that at this price point you can't really argue.

  • @Nusbizz
    @Nusbizz Před 2 lety +1

    Guess I’m getting one lol. What a great video as always.

  • @KevinOGarra
    @KevinOGarra Před 6 lety +1

    Hi David. I note you use the thrumometer which I also used for years, however have you tried the grainfather wortometer. The temp probe from the grainfather plugs into it and I have found this to be much better in terms of temperature accuracy. Very simple piece of kit but very good and cheap option compared to the price of a thrumometer. Give it a go if you haven't, you won't be disappointed.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Thanks Kevin. I am excited to try the new wortometer and review it here. It looks spot on to what I have been hoping for. Currently though, it is not available outside of NZ & Australia.

    • @KevinOGarra
      @KevinOGarra Před 6 lety +1

      David Heath yeah I'm in NZ. I did have a thrumometer (sold it) and this little piece of kit is very very good. Makes temperature monitoring so much more accurate & quicker to react to temperature changes etc. Well recommended when you can get one. Look forward to seeing your thoughts on it. I personally think you'll be selling your thrumometer though...haha.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Awesome, looking forward to it even more now! Thanks Kevin.

  • @marcushalse5737
    @marcushalse5737 Před 6 lety +1

    Thanks for great information!

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      +Marcus Halse Glad you found it useful, plenty more GF content on my channel :)

  • @peterscandlyn
    @peterscandlyn Před 7 lety +1

    Echoing other comments..... Spot on, great video thanks.

  • @jamesgoacher2433
    @jamesgoacher2433 Před 5 lety +1

    I think I have had my GF for a similar time to you and when you wrote that you were on your 100th brew I though Pheau, I have done more than that so I checked. Since my first on the 25th March 2015 I have done.98. Now since I know what a drunken sot I am, I know about you?!!
    I have had a couple of failures due to clumsiness but as you say all is generally OK. I mostly use a different filter arrangement because I prefer Hop Flower (wrongly called Leaf btw) but I am going to do another experiment with Pellet because I recently bought a Whirlpool/Aerator thingy. Then I will use the GF Filter.
    I have fitted a longer hose to the recirculation pipe which coils around the top plate and swirls the wort around rather that bombard the grain bed. I may replace the original hose so the recirculated wort is forced into the grain bed rather that simply allowing gravity.
    I did some measurement of the grain bed temperature after doughing in and found that it had fallen to the low 50's. Now I recirculate onto the grain before fitting the top plate. This brings the temperature back to a couple of degrees or so below the indicated Mash temperature. I was thinking of experimenting with an initial temperature near what Strike Water would be then setting a normal Mash Temperature at the start of the Mash Timer. Not done that yet.
    Many thanks for your videos btw, very helpful.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety

      Thanks for sharing you experience James, great to hear that you have found my videos to be useful.

  • @chiefHrenchir
    @chiefHrenchir Před 7 lety +1

    Another great vid. Thanks

  • @84jito
    @84jito Před 7 lety +1

    Great video David. I was surprised to find that you were over in Norway, I assumed you were in the UK (for some reason)

  • @goranringsjo4681
    @goranringsjo4681 Před 6 lety +1

    Excellent, to the point and very clear. Thank You for a superb review.

  • @andrepaquet946
    @andrepaquet946 Před 7 lety +4

    Thank you David Nice review Regards from Québec.

  • @DavidHeathHomebrew
    @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety +1

    PLEASE WATCH MY LATEST ALL IN ONE BUYERS GUIDE VIDEOS AND REVIEWS FOR AN UP TO DATE PERSPECTIVE.

  • @Anthony-yn9dg
    @Anthony-yn9dg Před 4 lety +1

    Great video for a beginner like me.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      Glad you enjoyed it. The market has changed since this video was made though. Check out this update series:- czcams.com/play/PLeY07JqsrXM8qdQcqQnMGB2T5h9PLpt_Z.html

  • @damo9897
    @damo9897 Před 7 lety +1

    Great video again David, thanks. Congrats on 100 GF brews! Just confirming your Thrumometer is the 3/8" version? Thanks

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      Hi Damo, Thanks alot mate :) Yes its the 3/8" version. Super useful :)

  • @hobbeeswe7472
    @hobbeeswe7472 Před 2 lety +1

    Hurtfully good video after having almost decided for another brand... Now I feel a Grainfather G30 is the right choice... I have 3 questions:
    1. Are you independent of tha Grainfather company (you did not mention this)?
    2. The most common critique I have read about the system is it lacks handles to e.g. carry it into storage, do you have this experience?
    3. I have read that some people have experienced problems with the APP/sofftware, any experiences of this?
    Excellent presentation...

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks. Be sure to check out the latest systems offered by GF too, the G40 and S40.
      My channel is and always has been independent. I do not accept sponsors. I work for an independent wholesaler and retailer based in Norway.
      The lack of handles on the G30 are not a big deal, its light enough to pick up using one hand on the controller bracket and another behind. Ive had issues with the app in the past but not with the G30. Having said this I prefer the Brewfather experience, which can be used with the G30 via Bluetooth.

    • @hobbeeswe7472
      @hobbeeswe7472 Před 2 lety +1

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew Many thanks for a quick, informative and friendly reply. You have single handedly convined me to buy a G30 😊 I am sure there are other models but these seems like a good start. Thank you!

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 2 lety

      Great to hear :) Enjoy :)

  • @philcox2355
    @philcox2355 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Hi David Liked your video. Thinking about changing my basic kettle BIAB system to something like a GrainFather. In the G30 vs the recirculating pipe is in the middle of the kettle however on the G70 V2 it has been moved to ethe side outside.. Is that a big inconvenience in using the G30 in your opinion..? Cheers

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 měsíci

      Hi Phil, having the pipe in the middle is something you get used to. However I prefer no overflow pipe in terms of mash preference. Basket handling is a nicer solution. I would suggest a brewing system with ultra low watt density heating elements and a concave bottom though. 2 great examples being the Grainfather G40 and Brewzilla GEN 3 and 4 models. I have videos that compare all these.

    • @philcox2355
      @philcox2355 Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew Actually after I checked a video the the G30 v3 I noticed that there is no pipe in the middle. In any case I will try to make my kettle last until next year and then see what is on the market. Many thanks for your very swift reply. Right now I have a plain kettle and BIAB setup it's simple but fine ( when the power does not fail )

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 měsíci

      @philcox2355 You get more features with electrical all in one systems but they are based around BIAB. Certainly its going to be a decent upgrade, especially if you want to brew larger volumes.

  • @OldNorsebrewery
    @OldNorsebrewery Před 5 lety +1

    interesting. Cheers

  • @davidjbryant
    @davidjbryant Před 5 lety +2

    Hey David, very useful videos on GF. Has been very helpful for a newly like me. I'll upgrade the hoses on my CF chiller... do you know what size they are? I've done a bit of google search but nothing obvious.... help appreciated....

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety

      Hi David, thank you. Sadly the hose size is not something I can advise on but contacting GF directly would get you the answer.

  • @dongraham8236
    @dongraham8236 Před 2 lety +1

    Greetings again David...any ideas on adding a sightglass to the GF? I wondered about modding the Brewzilla 35 as it uses the recirc pipe and does not require drilling holes into my GF...TIA

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 2 lety +1

      Hey Don, this is not something that I have tried. The smartest way seems to be in replacing the recirculation pipe with a pipe that can show volume.

  • @arskantappokone
    @arskantappokone Před 5 lety +1

    Nice video David! Have you ever passivated your grainfather with StarSan? SSBrewtech recommends passivation of stainless steel every year or so to keep it nice and clean.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety

      Thank you. Yes I do this every 3-5 brews. It works well at cleaning off what the eye cannot also see as well. It is also good for the copper in the CFC.

  • @matthewhornbaker7145
    @matthewhornbaker7145 Před 4 lety +1

    I stumbled across your videos while looking for ways to enhance my brew days. The GF looks fantastic, but I am bit hesitant in purchasing. I have a few questions that hopefully you can address. First, is the customer support non-existent as some reviewers claim? Second, I know that you have brewed 100+ beers, but are you still getting the same quality of beer as your first beer? Third, do you get a rolling boil, and what would you recommend in doing so? And finally, is the ThruMometer a 1/2" or 3/8" and why this one instead of the GF's version? Cheers, and thanks for the videos.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      Things have for sure changed since this review. For a more up to date look at the market and the GF I would suggest you watch at least parts 1&2 of these videos:-
      czcams.com/play/PLeY07JqsrXM8qdQcqQnMGB2T5h9PLpt_Z.html
      The customer service is for sure in decline now. The company is now owned by BSG and this has clearly had a negative effect sadly. Ive now brewed over 300 beers and the quality is good but the newer GF systems sold now are clearly different in terms of components like pumps. The failure rate has increased. Also be aware that the US version of the connect controller has cord melting issues that have gone on for a long time now. I do get a nice rolling boil from my system but then mine is running at 230v. If you are in the US then you probably will not. Do realise though that a rolling boil these days is not as valued these days as new information has come to light about its significance. Thrumometer wise the 3/8’ version fits the GF silicone hosing but the 1/2” will not.
      Hope this helps :)

    • @matthewhornbaker7145
      @matthewhornbaker7145 Před 4 lety

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew Thank you for the reply. With all of the negative issues pointed out in the reply, would looking into the BrewTools be a better option? I have been brewing all-grain for a better part of 2 years now, and I am looking to purchase something that is condensed that provides the ability to brew good beer without having to use a 3-pot method. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Cheers!

  • @lostmysoultoday9005
    @lostmysoultoday9005 Před 4 lety +1

    Yes i agree with Short Circuited Brewers, you put a lot of effort into your videos.
    What's the verdict on the Grainfather connect control box, can you still recommend? do you use it auto or do you manually enter mash times/Temps?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      Thank you. At this point I am still using it manually, though Brewfather has just started supporting full Bluetooth control for the connect. It is still in beta but once a final version is released then I will give it a try. For a long time now I have been using Brewfather instead of the GF software and not only is it accurate, it is also very well implemented and bug-free.

  • @steveaa
    @steveaa Před 3 lety +1

    Hi David and tks for the video. Have you ever worked out the cost of electricity and materials is for 1 brew. ?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 lety

      Thanks Steve. No but I just know it's cheaper than commercial beer by a long way.

  • @spinaway
    @spinaway Před 5 lety +1

    I made the big mistake of buying a cheap allgrain brewer just over a month ago, i have found that more often than not it overshoots temps by quite a few degrees, it also take ages to reac temp, the maltipipe is extremely short so the garin bill has to be quite small so making 23 litre batches is quite difficult, in total i have spent £349 brewer+£30 postage, £34 Wort chiller, £44 insulation jacket, total= £457 wish id gone for the grainfather, probably will as soon as my element dies.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety +1

      Yes this is a common experience and something that I highlighted in one of my other videos where I compared 3 different brewing systems at low, middle and high price points. The main issues really with those cheaper systems is the lack of accuracy of temperature, particularly when it comes to the mash. Thats assuming that the unit is safe and the CE marking is authentic.

    • @spinaway
      @spinaway Před 5 lety +1

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew i couldnt agree more, you live and learn, cheers David.

  • @HellFireno88
    @HellFireno88 Před 7 lety +1

    Where Did you buy the chiller? I live in Norway too. I have made my own system using a cheap brewery that I've added a pump etc to. I use craftbeerpi to control it. I would like a bigger system. Would be nice to have 40L + after a brew day. Only get about 20L now. I'm tining about building a HERMS.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety +1

      The chiller comes with the system. Any retailer that stocks the GF can potentially order one for you.

  • @jonasjansson8004
    @jonasjansson8004 Před rokem +1

    Is it easy to brew small bathces a 15Liters?

  • @mosunny8107
    @mosunny8107 Před 6 lety +1

    G'day David.
    Just wondering where you got the stainless mesh for the pump filter?.
    I had the filter come off last night during a stout brew which i didnt know till i tried to chill it and dont want to deal with pulling everything apart again!. Thanks, Mark

  • @Jack-ih7bw
    @Jack-ih7bw Před 3 lety +1

    Hi David, I recently just purchased a Grainfather and I plan to use it along side Brewfather this weekend for my first brew on the Grainfather system (Previously have always used a 3 vessel system). I was wondering whether you could help me out with a good baseline equipment profile for the G30? After some researching online I found that peoples differed a fair amount from the Brewfather default profile for the Gf. I understand that everyones will differ slightly but I wondered if I could perhaps use your personal profile as a baseline that I could then edit as I go. I am in the UK so have the international version of the GF.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 lety +1

      Congratulations Jack. I actually use the default profile and find it spot on. I hear more people find this outcome than anything else. I would suggest trying it and seeing where it gets you. You really will need to base changes reactively anyway. I would suggest checking preboil volume and then end volume to fermenter. This will help you make any changes needed quickly.

  • @JohanLyttbacka
    @JohanLyttbacka Před 7 lety +1

    There are two different versions of the ThuMometer (different dimentions on the connectors) which one are you using?

  • @adenshobbies7768
    @adenshobbies7768 Před 6 lety +2

    A great video, David. I just bought a Grainfather, and am looking forward to doing my first brew today. I'll definitely be using some of your modifications. By the way, have you ever needed to use a hop spider to prevent filter clogging?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Thanks Adam. Great to hear :) Check out the GF trouble shooting video I recently uploaded and the GF FAQ series they will certainly bring you up to speed on everything. I have seldom had a clog but when I have its very simple and fast to fix as you will see :) I also have many other recipe/brew videos on the channel where I share many hints,tips and very tried and tested recipes :)

  • @clintwedel5704
    @clintwedel5704 Před 6 lety +1

    Well done! Have you done any research on bridging the MASH/NORMAL switch to use both heaters? It seams like it would be feasible with the new Connect controller and more watts = shorter heat up time. Second, has anyone used the mash tube as a false bottom during boil? I have a hop spider but sometimes that isn't big enough for all the whole hops in my beer.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      +Clint Wedel Glad you liked it, plenty more on the channel :) As I understood it when you are in Normal mode both heaters are engaged. Is that not right? Some have tried this yes but apparently the silicone ring around the bottom plate cannot handle the boil. Hope this helps.

    • @clintwedel5704
      @clintwedel5704 Před 6 lety

      That would explain why I cant find anyone who has do that. I scorched some wort once and noticed that only the middle part of the bottom was burned, which I assumed was the high power coil. I suppose the Mash coil wouldnt burn anything no matter how hard you tried. Or they are both coiled in the middle...

  • @frolicols
    @frolicols Před 6 lety +1

    David your videos have been a great help. I went out and bought a Grainfather with chiller and fermenter!
    The mesh you have covering the filter, where did you get it? I want to do the same modification but not sure what to buy.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Hey, thats great to hear. I got my SS mesh on ebay. 300 microns.

    • @frolicols
      @frolicols Před 6 lety +2

      Thanks for the info! Found here on ebay for anyone else: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Stainless-Steel-Woven-Wire-Mesh-300-micron-opening-62-Mesh-300mm-x-300mm/292675654091?hash=item4424d411cb:g:1CIAAOSwT5tWIMv7

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Great :) It keeps changing link wise

  • @2moon4moon
    @2moon4moon Před 7 lety +1

    Hello again,
    yesterday, my whirlpool removed my pump filter for the first time and I remembered you talking about using a clamp to keep it in place. Do you screw it on and off every brew day? Or is it kind of permanently in place and you just pull of the filter for cleaning? I will probably copy that modification. Now my red ale that should have a very clean appearence might end up cloudy after all :(

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +A. S. Its screwed in and I remove the filter for cleaning. Clarity can be fixed by time or fining agents :)

  • @krausswilliam
    @krausswilliam Před 7 lety +1

    Thanks!!
    Could I ask a few ?'s
    1. High gravity brews?
    2. Time to heat. I assume you are using a 240V model.
    thanks

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +Bill Krauss Sure. Ive gone up to 9% in a regular brew. Anything higher and you can do a reiterated mash. I show this in a video. I haven't timed it to be honest recently but it's acceptable to me and im impatient:)

  • @TheBeardyManCraftBeers
    @TheBeardyManCraftBeers Před 5 lety +1

    Hey David, we should do a collaboration brewday bud, love your content! 🍻👍

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety +1

      Hey, thank you :) Yes that sounds good :) Where are you based?

    • @TheBeardyManCraftBeers
      @TheBeardyManCraftBeers Před 5 lety +1

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew I'm actually living in Cork, Ireland but I'm over in Surrey end of June this summer 👍 even to hook up for a chat over a beer.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety +1

      Cool, problem is I live near Oslo, Norway :)

    • @TheBeardyManCraftBeers
      @TheBeardyManCraftBeers Před 5 lety +1

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew Oh sorry I didn't know that, I'll have to plan a visit sometime 🍻👍

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety +1

      The BeardyMan Craft Beers No problem, Norway is a must see :)

  • @leifmorteneide5001
    @leifmorteneide5001 Před 6 lety +1

    Hi. Great job with all the videos. I was wondering what kind of metal mesh you used for the pump filter, where you got it and how you have attached it securely to the filter. I have had the rubber cap come loose, and its not fun with 100 g of hops in the wort.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Thank you. Its a stainless steel mesh, you can get this on ebay.

    • @leifmorteneide5001
      @leifmorteneide5001 Před 6 lety +1

      Great. Found and ordered. I can´t see in The video how you have secured this to the filter. Do you use A hoseclamp of some sort? Thanks again.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      I just wrapped the mesh around the filter with an overlap where the cap is. This was then pushed down to hold the cap.

  • @johngalling7441
    @johngalling7441 Před 6 lety +1

    I just wondered how you lifted the fermenter on to the worktop? Having seen your video would it be possible to pump the wort into the fermenter which is already on the worktop?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      John Galling The reason I do it the way I do is that it would not reach so well and also the wort would not splash into the fermenter as much. I lift the fermenter onto the worktop myself. Its easier to do this in two stages, especially when you have a full batch inside! I lift it onto a chair first and then onto the higher worktop. All good shoulder exercise :)

    • @johngalling7441
      @johngalling7441 Před 6 lety +1

      David Heath thanks for the quick reply. Your procedure certainly seems the way forward. I was thinking of adding an extra pump to get the wort from the Grainfather to the fermenter, to save lifting, but it’s just another thing to clean and after seeing your video of the Grainfather pumping to a good height I might give it a go anyway, thanks for the great video.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      +John Galling Its a pretty strong pump on the GF.
      I did all testing with water first to make sure it would work come brew day.

  • @tman9338
    @tman9338 Před 3 lety +1

    Solid content. If u had to buy a current setup for 10G batches would u buy the this -vs- Anvil ??? I’m dying 2 go electric but can’t see doing 5G batches after doing 10 and 20G batches with 8% ABV beers. Your thoughts ???

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 lety +1

      Thank you. This is quite an old system now. I would suggest looking at the Brewzilla 35 & 65 systems. Cheaper and better in some ways. Anvil is not something Ive tested as currently it is US only.

    • @tman9338
      @tman9338 Před 3 lety +1

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew Thank you.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 3 lety

      :)

  • @jn26661
    @jn26661 Před 5 lety +1

    Hi David I learn a lot from you watching your video’s
    Because you have so much experience I would like to ask what the average mash efficiency is for the large batches and the small batches. Is there a limitation in liters for let’s say an 11 liter batch. What happens with the efficiency. Does it drop dramatically?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety

      Thank you Jac. When it comes to the regular pipework the best mash effeciency is at around 5kg of malt. Here I can get past 90% automatically. The more you add the less effecient it becomes. This can be greatly improved on by stopping the mash 1-3 times and stirring for afew minutes each time. Even so, when it comes to high alcohol beers it is far better to split the grain and mash twice. Here is a guide on my suggested method:- czcams.com/video/C-7NiGZgKyQ/video.html

    • @jn26661
      @jn26661 Před 5 lety +1

      David Heath, am I right you don’t use the top plate during the split mash?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety

      No, for sure use it. Its purpose is very important for efficiency. It will ensure an even amount of mash water through the entire grain bill.

  • @francescosmarrazzo8512
    @francescosmarrazzo8512 Před 5 lety +1

    hello David, congratulations for the video. have you ever had to replace the heating element at the bottom of the pot? if so, how did you do it?

  • @NaughtyGoatFarm
    @NaughtyGoatFarm Před 6 lety +1

    Does anyone know if the online brew recipes have any to make grain based spirit washes like scotch whiskey?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Not that I know of sadly.

    • @gunnarholmes1546
      @gunnarholmes1546 Před 6 lety +1

      You have to Look for a NEW ZEALAND Version GrainFather Blog: WEEK 128: MAKING WHISKEY WITH THE GRAINFATHER & Download a Mango Jack recipe for Mocha Scotch Whiskey at the end of the Article. It didn't show in a search in the USA btw.. but their search is a bit simple minded anyway.

  • @bombingbloke
    @bombingbloke Před 6 lety +1

    Awesome video!
    Where do you live in Norway?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Thank you. I currently live in Godvik, near Bergen but will be moving to Lier, near Oslo in July.

  • @normanhutchinson9798
    @normanhutchinson9798 Před 4 lety +1

    one thing that puzzles me about the grainfather is the recirculation arm if you use a cool box mash tun at say 63c dough in no use for a recirculation arm so why have a recirculation arm on grainfather if you recirculate the mash when doughed in at 63c in grainfather surly that arm will be not keeping the 63c while its running it'll be a lower temperature i can see the point of the counter flow chiller as most people have a separate spare system ie tea urn with temp control anyone got a reason why use recirculation arm thanks

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      Many of these systems use recirculation to improve efficiency as well as make the efficiency easy to repeat.

    • @normanhutchinson9798
      @normanhutchinson9798 Před 4 lety

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew many people would have got their efficiency before these systems were created i would have thought

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      Sure but not without either manual recirculation and/or stirring. These systems automate that.

    • @normanhutchinson9798
      @normanhutchinson9798 Před 4 lety +1

      So I wonder if I should slowly run recircuation pipe or run the pipe open fully which would be better to do or is this trial and error like most things

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      Fully open for sure. The valve is there for cooling flexibility.

  • @markmathis5189
    @markmathis5189 Před 4 lety +1

    I am wondering if anyone else has problems with the GF pump. On several batches, I have had the pump stop working and refuse to continue. One more than one batch, I have had to remove the grain basket, bail out the wort, clean the filter and start the recirculation again with some clean water. Extremely annoying! Anyone?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      Hi Mark, yes it is a common issue. I recommend the use of a false bottom as shown in this video:-
      czcams.com/video/dwUptHvFK78/video.html

    • @markmathis5189
      @markmathis5189 Před 4 lety

      I will order this from Norway. Are you in agreement that the GF pump should be self-priming and perhaps a bit stouter?

  • @bobbybobbobbybobbobb
    @bobbybobbobbybobbobb Před 6 lety +1

    Hi, i'm new here just preparing for my first brew and have one question. I already have Grainfather Cleaner for first clean but want to understand - do I also need to sanitise grainfather after first clean and before first brew (and before any other brew)? If so - is there any limits what I can use to sanitise it and what is your suggestion?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      +Vladimir B No need to sanitise at all. Just use the cleaner before the first brew to wash away oils from manufacture and then after each brew after that.

    • @bobbybobbobbybobbobb
      @bobbybobbobbybobbobb Před 6 lety +1

      Thank you! Can you also help me with suggestion - how to keep yeast nutrient? What is best temperature?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      +Vladimir B Some keep it in the fridge, personally I store mine with my yeast in a dry cool area.

  • @rcole1958
    @rcole1958 Před 7 lety +2

    Do you receive compensation from the product manufacturer for these videos?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety +2

      rcole1958 If this was the case then I would be clear about it in my videos. So no :)
      My youtube channel is private. All opinions are my own. I do get sent demo products to review but these are not given for free to me personally. In respect of this video my Grainfather was bought by me privately before I started receiving demo products for evaluation.

    • @rcole1958
      @rcole1958 Před 7 lety +1

      David Heath very good. Thanks for clarifying. Cheers, mate.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +rcole1958 No problem:)

  • @dustinjohnson7584
    @dustinjohnson7584 Před 7 lety

    What diameter sink strainer do you use?

  • @srki80
    @srki80 Před 5 lety +1

    I'm torn between Grainfather and Clawhammer.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 5 lety

      Hmm I have never seen or used a clawhammer. Does it get good reviews?

    • @srki80
      @srki80 Před 5 lety +1

      @@DavidHeathHomebrew Overall good reviews from what I could find so far. It's a fairly new system. The main complaint is 120v/1650w heating element. I don't think that's an issue for me. Here's the overview czcams.com/video/DorRhlucCQA/video.html . If you are interested seeing it in action, all the brews on their channel are done using that system.

    • @swipemagnetron
      @swipemagnetron Před 5 lety +1

      I’m eying claw hammer also. It’s got a compelling price compared to putting a similar system together diy I’d say.

  • @bjornmyren
    @bjornmyren Před 7 lety

    Have you tried to make a beer with low gravity with the grainfather?

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +Björn Myrén Yes :) Check out this English Mild. Low alcohol and yet it tastes like a 5% plus ale.
      czcams.com/video/4ndoak1ArUM/video.html

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 7 lety

      +Björn Myrén It got great scores in the beer tasting video.

  • @edvinasbaranauskas2108
    @edvinasbaranauskas2108 Před rokem +1

    Hi David!
    In my area, the Grainfather G30 and Brewzilla 35 GEN4 cost the same. Tell me please, what should be the choice?
    Thank you very much.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před rokem

      Hi, The GF G30 is quite some years old, where as the GEN 4 BZ is very new and has a number of enhancements and better features. Its no contest really.

  • @funkylovetank
    @funkylovetank Před 7 lety

    many thx v helpful. What size mesh are you using on the filter? (e.g. of these sizes: www.ebay.com.au/itm/4-10-50-100-Mesh-304-Stainless-Steel-Woven-Wire-Filtration-Filter-Sheet-30x30cm-/132206247264?var=&hash=item1ec81b3d60:m:mlzkPa8M4XIXau8gcZLv0BQ) and what size clamp would we need to secure the pump fitting as you have done? cheers

  • @lachmac4444
    @lachmac4444 Před 4 lety +1

    Can you explain how you recorded ZERO problems in 100 brews with this video, then proceed to slam the same equipment in a more recent comparison video! czcams.com/video/a3VhlUXZkJU/video.html

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety +1

      Yes, I certainly can . When the GF30 first was released it had a different controller. Then the connect controller came along and all was fine at first but then things changed within the software and things got progressively worse. To the point now where it seems that at least half of the user base does not use the GF software. This video review was made in August 2017 and these problems turned up later on. As I have stated in the past, not everyone is effected by these software problems but many certainly have been. However the video that you linked is about the 70L GF not the 30L version that this video is about. These are 2 different brewing systems. I would not say that I slammed it, I simply reported my experiences with it. I also made it clear that the experience I have had is part of a mix of varying experiences by the user base. I have heard from some that have no issues and some that had a worse experience than me and everything else in between.

    • @lachmac4444
      @lachmac4444 Před 4 lety +1

      Thanks for clarifying that David, my bad. Amazing how a product can be crippled by software. You're videos certainly are very informative.

    • @lachmac4444
      @lachmac4444 Před 4 lety +1

      Thanks for clarifying that David, my bad. Amazing how a product can be crippled by software. You're videos certainly are very informative.

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 4 lety

      @@lachmac4444 Thank you. Yes, it has certainly been sad to see. The tone around GF used to be so positive but now as you will see on social media and youtube things are very mixed. What is important though is to keep the information flow coming. You will note that this video has sticky post of me suggesting people look at the up to date version.

    • @lachmac4444
      @lachmac4444 Před 4 lety +1

      I've subscribed to you channel to keep upto date. :) Keep up the good work!

  • @AceTeale
    @AceTeale Před 6 lety +1

    Shit 100 brews .....You seriously must be knocking beers back.....

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      I dont drink it all myself!

    • @AceTeale
      @AceTeale Před 6 lety +1

      Well proper impressed you have done so many brew's so quickly.....

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      I am used to brewing everyday...so brewing once a week seems low!

    • @AceTeale
      @AceTeale Před 6 lety +1

      Oh okay I brew coffee everyday ...So Im guessing you either work for a brewery or have your own commercial brewery which is very cool either way....

    • @DavidHeathHomebrew
      @DavidHeathHomebrew  Před 6 lety

      Right on both accounts but back in time. I still work in the beer industry though.