General homebrew discussion, tips and help on kit and malt extract brewing, and talk about equipment. Queries on sourcing supplies and equipment should go in The Store.
Hi i want to start brewing my own beer. I live in melbourne, is it worth getting a heat pad when i buy my kit, or is this a waste of money. I will have to brew in the garage. thanks for your time, cheers.
Adam you have some options here cheapest is a heating belt this is what I use in conjunction with a timer and blanket and have no problems. Next is the heating pad a little more control than the belts. Next is an immersion heater these give you better control.
If you wish to brew ales during winter you will need a heater of some sort. If you are going to brew lagers with lager yeast you my get away with out needing heating.
Remember you will only need to get the temp to 18-22 deg for ales.
I used to use a fish tank heater in a tub of water with eth fermentor in it. worked okay, but a lot of lifting heavy fermentors. I have since bought a belt heater which also wroks well and less hassle. OR brew lots in the warm months and avoid teh expense.
always brew mine couple of feet of the ground with a blanket underneath n rap it at nite,neva had problem with temp (inside tho)may get to hot inthe shed sometimes during the day like said before bit cooler than hotter is best good luck
