I just bought a grainfather and have been watching a ton of videos on it, but this one was the most helpful bc it showed the process from start to finish. I also appreciated the honesty throughout - making the little mistakes and not editing it out is actually quite helpful so I can avoid similar problems (that I'm sure I would have done also). Thanks for the great tutorial!
Agreed, I am about to buy one and have been doing research into which BIAB system is best for me. Larry should be on commission from Grainfather. This video is so comprehensive, it has essentially convinced me I need one.
i guess Im asking the wrong place but does any of you know of a method to log back into an Instagram account? I somehow lost the account password. I would appreciate any assistance you can offer me
Larry. After sparging, spray some cold water on the outside of the Grainfather and you can see the level of hot wort to see if you need to add more water. That way you don't have to take the grainbed off.
Love how you're never afraid to show your screw ups. We brewers know all about those (!) yet most choose to edit them out. You show 'em warts and all Laz. Love your honesty.
I have trouble watching 5 minute videos sometimes, but I watched every second of this. Super helpful, honest, and entertaining. Well done! I just bought a Grainfather and have been nervous about my first brew, but this video put me at ease as you reminded me that it’s OK to make a few mistakes while learning a whole new system. Thank you!
Great review, Larry! I’ve done about 10 batches now on my Grainfather and haven’t looked back! The small footprint is perfect for my 2BR apartment, since I can just store it the corner of a closet.
Thanks, Larry, for your thorough and personable approach. Really helps to visualize the brewing process. My brew partner and I just bought a G30 and will do our first batch ever next week, so discovering your video couldn’t have come at a better time! All the best from Stockholm, Sweden.
Hi have to say thank you, Iv been watching you for the last 6 months and thanks to you iv picked up my own fermentasaurus and just started it first brew. So again thank you for all your vids.
Hi Larry Greetings from the UK - just bought the GF Connect, so will be starting a partial mash kit shortly. Thought I would get to all-grain in easy stages. I already have the GF Conical Fermenter, which I've been using for kits - great piece of gear also. Your vid and honesty therein much appreciated!
A great idea to publish a “full” footage. Those who are interested will watch it with pleasure. The others will skip to another YT production. That’s all. Thanks! Great job!
Watched the lot, from start to end without pausing and I enjoyed :) Have a grainfather myself, but only two brews under my belt so far. What I haven't used though, is the 'connect app', so really pleased to see that part of your video. Well done...thumbs up from me.
That was a great insight Larry. I have been putting off getting one of these machines. Now seems to be a good time. The programme that comes with it is fantastic. Thank you. Nick
Hi Larry, I just watched your Grainfather: First Brew Day video. I haven’t started yet, but will be doing so on or just after my retirement in a couple of months time. I intend using Grainfather and doing whole grain brewing so I was really interested in your experience. I found the video really interesting and it just makes me more than ever want to get started. Thanks - I am going to check out other vids now.
Nice job going through the GF! Considering a G40 (as well as the required house/garage wiring needed) and your detailed bids really helped with some questions I had! Thanks.
At about 30 minutes mark of this video I went ahead and purchased Grainfather G30 to replace my Brewmaster 50L clone. Thanks man, your video was very helpful!
I just heat the spargewater in the grainfather and pump it to a seperate vessel leaving the mashwater in the grainfather. If needed I heat the spargewater further afterwards by tapping some of it into a kettle, boiling it and pouring it back into the vessel. I brew in the kitchen anyway.
Great video. I’ve been brewing on the Grainfather for 15 mos, 20-25 batches. Wish we could talk so I could share the little tricks I’ve learned along the way. I had previously been doing extract brewing and the GF extended my brew day but the expanded range of brewing options make it a no brainer. And like you said, the small footprint is fantastic.
I also just started brewing on the grainfather after doing extract. I am only 2 brews in i the grainfather and am very happy with it but I would like to hear some if your tips and tricks
just bought the grain father as first time grain brewer. also bought beersmith 3 for help to transfer the recipe. ive been looking to try to do kits until comfortable just buying ingredients and doing myself. any help on kits that alrdy have recipes up on grain father? or a website that has them. very confused on manuelly doing it since it doesnt convert perfectlty. any help is appreciated. also can email me at ryannewell2013@gmail.com
Thanks for making this video! I recently purchased a Grainfather but am new to homebrewing and wasn't really sure how the system would work. This video has definitely helped me feel a lot more prepared for my first brew day on it.
Hey Larry, thanks for the video. A tip for checking the volume without being able to look inside: use a spray bottle with just water and spray against the outside of the kettle on where the volume marks are. Because the wort inside is warm you'll see it condense up to where wort is filled.
Nice job, Larry! Pretty impressive boil too. I'm hoping for the same when I finally get around to brewing on mine. After seeing this I'm thinking I'll pre-sanitize the chiller (before the first hop addition, perhaps), so not to disturb the cone after whirlpooling.
VERY cool! I haven't brewed beer in about five years now and am getting back into it. I used to do all grain. I can't believe the advancements in the homebrew market in just five years! I'll be ordering one of these for sure! Great video! Thanks!
Hello Larry I liked your Grainfather video. I have a Picobrew S. I been looking at this system for when I move up to the next step in brewing. I like the app part of this product. I dont have the time to sit about and watch the brewing part sometimes. That's why I got my Picobrew and I didn't have to know how to make the grain mix. I like the fact you show how to do did this from the start. It makes a guy I me see that everyone has the same problems with a new brewer. The fact that the instructions don't alway say every step is good for me to see because I don't have your skills yet. I have to order all my grain mixes from out of town places due to the fact that I don't have a Brew store near me. I emailed the Grainfather company and they said I can get the 220 voltage system. I have 220 voltage in my garage for my Buzz box welder. It will take bit of a while to get this one but I think it will be worth the wait. Thanks for your video And to Puzzlebox your a JERK !!
Cool video, thanks! I am new to brewing and have recently acquired this Grainfather. This video helps me a lot to get to know the Grainfather better before I start brewing with it.
I purchased a Grainfather and made this recipe. It was my first batch. The only change I made was to reduce the amount of hops by almost half. I personally don't like hoppy beers. I enjoyed the brew day with the Grainfather. I took a full keg to a party yesterday and it was gone in a short time. Everyone loved this beer. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Larry - really good video - helpful. Like Tim below I just got a Grainfather and your deep dive was just what I wanted. Tons of lessons learnt. Thanks from cold and wet Sydney, Australia.
This video really helped me out Larry. Thanks so much for taking the time to do this for guys like me. I had to go back and reference this a few times.
Great video. I switched a few months ago to the Grainfather from my propane system. I brew more due to the fact my other system was kept in the third floor and was a hassle getting all of the equipment down to my garage to brew. Now I keep my Grainfather in my garage and when I want to brew i just plug it in. A hopspider or hop bag is a must with this system. I was surprised that it didn't just stop pumping with all of the hops in there. If you're on the fence about purchasing one, see if your LHBS rents them. I was able to rent one and see if I liked it. I went from going to sell everything since I had basically stopped brewing to becoming an avid brewer again. I brew everything from pale ale to triples in it. I am now beginning into lagers. I do have one question though. Did the app have an alarm for each step of was it just on the unit. I have the first generation without the connect.
Great video! I've been wanting an electric system for awhile now and I like how this mostly all in one system will have a much smaller storage footprint in my garage. The main thing I need to consider is that I like to brew 2 or 3 consecutive batches on a brew day to make my total brewing time more efficient, but I won't be able to do that with this system. In case you don't know what I mean, I'm talking about having the first batch in the boil kettle, while the 2nd batch is sparging, while the 3rd batch is mashing. I also like having the option of brewing 5 or 10 gallon batches using either my 10 or 15 gallon bill kettle while using the same mash cooler. Just something to consider before I decide to buy The Grainfather system.
This was my go-to video to learn how to use the G30 in anger, as I'm a total brewing noob, thanks so much Larry. I've done 3 brews now, the second one was the best, but the 1st and 3rd have been spoiled by too much trub in the wort after cooling, very similar to the appearance in your video. I'm thinking that this is because the wort either isn't getting properly whirlpooled at the end, or as other commenters have said, the pump action for the counter cooler is drawing trub up from the bottom and into the FV. Another possibility is that the bottom perforated plate isn't fitting snuggly, and too many particulates from the mash are getting through, but you'd think the filter would remove these. Would appreciate your advice on this. Essentially, we should be trying to get the trub cone away from the filter - would tipping the vessel a few degrees away from the pump help maybe?
Grainfather is prone to clogging; either around the tiny filter, in the pump, or in the safety ball valve. I began using a robobrew false bottom to help avoid it all, but other people use hop spiders/bags or remove the ball and spring in the safety valve to prevent clogging.
THanks a lot for the video Larry, im new to all grain brewing and just bought a robobrew v3 , had a hell of a time finding a long video showing all the steps of using an all in one, this answered a lot of my questions and was entertaining to boot. I think I have the confidence to try my first batch on my robobrew
I have watched some of his videos, very informative aswell, his review helped me decide on the robo v3 . yours just had a few more in depth steps that helped. and was good to see how easy the cleanup was
Great video. Looks like an interesting product. Take the thread tape off the hose fittings though. There's a rubber washer in there for a reason. Only use tape on pipe fittings. Cheers!
Another great video Larry. You do a great job explaining everything. Very informative. Can't wait to get the rest of the components for my 5 gallon system so that I can begin brewing. Keep the beer videos coming.
I've had that once with the hops had clogged the filter. Although the finished wort still drips out the tap, it is obviously impeded. I think it is to do with the mesh size being too fine becuase it didn't happen with another hops filter with bigger perforations. I use hop socks now.
Good video Larry. If you want to improve the flow through your counter flow chiller turn the chiller so the flow goes in the bottom and out the top, else you can get an air lock in the chiller. Also, put your hops in bags or a spider, it makes the clean up easier too. Cheers.
I have almost fin my home made grain father so with system wired up temporarily ran first batch last night, just need to tweak software a bit , I’m using a PLC for heating and pump control, my friend is working on a Raspberry pie version, but as I said months ago all inspired by your channel. Thanks Larry
Hey Larry, I watched several of your videos and find them very helpful. I'm really new at home brewing. Three 1 gallon kits. Then I just picked up a Picobrew S used twice, picoferm, and four picopaks all for $250. The plan is to scale up to 5 gallons later this year and been researching the grainfather as an option to kettles and burners. This was a really great video to help me in my decision. Also watched the fermenter comparison and decided to go with glass based on the info you provided. If ever in the San Francisco area, hit me up and I'll take you to my hometown microbreweries. armstrongbrewing is one, the other is 47hills Cheers!
I watched to the end.. No skipping!! Lol could it be that Larry is converting to electric?!?!? Lol I feel the same way about my 20 gallon system. It is hard to do 5 gallon batches on my system. That's why I am about to build a 10 gallon kettle E-Biab system so I can do pilot batches. Good video Larry! I saw the length and was like... OMG, but it was nice and informative and did not seem as long as it was. Cheers! 👍🍻
BEER-N-BBQ by Larry Internet is down again!!!! Little snow storm took it down again.. Might have to switch companies.. Releasing a video instead.. Not happy.. 😠😳
Great video man. I know it's a bit lengthy, but brewing is always lengthy.. I've been using the grainfather for a little over 2 years now. And I gotta say, the grainfather is an amazing system, small footprint, great efficiency, and indoor brewing is awesome! But best of all, even when you "outgrow" a 5 gallon system like this It's still a PERFECT pilot system.
Plus I've seen quite a few of your videos, and I finally subscribed (I have no clue why I didn't subscribe earlier) Anyways, thumbs-up man! Keep doing what your doing.
Hey Larry, thanks for the in depth video showing first usage of the grainfather. Learned a lot from this video. Can't wait to pick mine up. Cheers brother =)
I've been looking into this and it seems that the International version is 110 and the New Zealand version is the 220. To make up for the lack of power, I have been looking at a hot rod heat stick. I still have not pulled the trigger on this yet. Maybe next year they will have the 220 volt system out for the North American market as well. Will be worth it for me to wait.
Great video. Looks like a great brew system for someone with limited space. Also the use of electric lets you brew all year. I have to brew in the garage with the door open because of the Propane burners. Not fun in the winter!
I’ve been enjoying your videos on making beer. I currently only do cider and mead, but I am considering an extract kit to try out since I wouldn’t have to buy any extra equipment before I know if I want to add beer to my brew hobby.
I watch this video when I brew on my GF. Im on my 3rd GF brew, and this is a great follow along. One thing I figured out this session was to measure water with the grain bucket out! That may be why your (and mine) mash was so thick.
Thanks for the review, Larry. I’ve really been considering the Grainfather, so I’m glad you happened to do a review. It got to a point for me that my 10 gallon batches with the burners and mash tun and everything, are starting to feel more like a chore. The grainfather just seems like less of a “chore”
Awesome! Been waiting for this one! Also excited about my first batch- only a few weeks to go (really low on gravity, but I know what I did wrong).. thanks for all the informative and inspiring videos, Larry!
Thanks for the video. You may end up with a better beer by NOT pushing the screen down before the sparge and by your deviated boil time. Always note mistakes in brewing as they can sometimes lead to a better beer for your particular taste :). I have failed to note mistakes in the process and ended up not being able to reproduce some of the best beers I have ever made. I have found to never stress subtle mistakes as they can sometimes lead to fantastic results. What I needed to learn to always note mistakes to obtain reproducible results, it's science man and always a learning process. You also may have had a NPT thread on the feed out of your chiller source cooler opposed to GHT, that would cause the longer male thread on the feed to not seat the washer on your chiller input properly thus requiring the thread sealer. Have been there. Thanks for the additional tip on using hop socks. I totally dig your tip on pilot brews. It is a way to prove recipes and process before moving to the big system. I was actually doing 2.5 gal recipes with my mini HERMS system before moving them to the big system. Thanks, great job.
It's always a learning curve trying new products for the first time. At times, I want to just go back to my old setup where I'm most comfortable, but with stuff coming in from vendors, it's hard to not want to use with them.
As much hate as they get, they really are great for brewing (and other things). When I brew in my garage, the concrete floor usually ends up getting wet. They are pretty good at gripping the wet surfaces and saving me from slipping. And they're good for my back! I also just ordered my GF......
Just discovered the channel recently Larry. It's been great learning from you, I'm only about 5 brews in but I wish I'd watched your videos sooner. It made me chuckle when you said 5 Gallon is an experiment brew though. Man, in the UK that's a full batch. I'm downsizing to 10ltr while I work things out.
Hi, Larry! Do you think a BIAB process can be applied to the Grainfather machine? Adding more water and grains at the beginning, based on a specific "loss" computation?
Great review, it pretty much answered all my questions about equipment limitations (external sparge). I think the only question I have is I keep hearing about the 120V system takes awhile to heat water. How long was your brew day and what would it have been if you used your propane system? Thanks much.
Larry, I've watched many of your videos. You go into great detail and I appreciate that. I'm looking at purchasing a digiboil and then adding a pump to go the cheaper route. I'll probably just make an immersion chiller like the one you made. Anyways thanks for the great videos. Oh and the food you make looks awesome! 👍👍
Nice video Larry as always, I'm looking at the RoboBrew at the moment and that's due to the price, I cant really afford more. Hopefully you can do a review of the RoboBrew. I spread the spent grains over the garden and the birds love it.
Thanks for the video Larry. Great work (as usual). It’s a cool system. But I think I like the “old fashioned” way. My system is pretty simple and I’m having a lot of fun with it. Maybe it’s because I’m new to brewing and still have that initial enthusiasm. I also have the benefit of a designated brew space, so I don’t have to worry about storage, etc. But it’s cool to see other systems in action. It does make me think about the addition of electric elements rather than the burners though.
Well, if you’re ever up this way, give me a call. We can do a brew day in my brewery and film a field trip episode. Then we’ll hit the water for some salmon to BBQ.
What type of "old fashioned" system do you have Darren? I started with 5 gallons on the stove 25 years ago, then progressed to gas, and finally to electric brewing. Its all good. All have their advantages. All are fun. All can produce great beer. In my opinion problem solving, designing and engineering upgrades and improvements in ease and efficiency, are a huge part of the rewards of the hobby. And with all the new products available these days its a wonderful time to be converting a home brewery to electric. Now you can find all sorts of ways to attach a 5500 watt element to a kettle. I upgraded to TC clamps a few years ago....they're da bomb. Plus now there are so many options for heat control...anything from a simple dial for $25 to a "complex looking" control panel with PIDs and lights that allows you to automate various things. Cheers and have fun with the conversions. They will be worth it :)
WickedBrews I’m sporting a propane burner system. Three tiers (HLT, mash tun, and boil kettle) using kegs that I converted to kettles (keggles). I’m having a lot of fun with the building. I made the system, the brewery, my stir plate, and chiller. I decided to dive in with both feet. I went straight to a 10 gallo. Capable system, and didn’t start brewing until I had everything built (including the space to do it). So there’s not a lot of upgrading for me to do. I’m lucky to have space, and an awesome wife.
That sounds awesome. Very similar to what I had...3 tiers with 2 burners and converted kegs for HLT and kettle. Made some great beers on that system. Only now my keg kettle and HLT each have a 6000 W element in them. I totally agree the building and designing is half the fun. I live in Canada and brew in my garage...which does have infloor heat so its very comfortable...but when I used to use propane I had to keep the door open somewhat at all times. The heat and fumes would build up fast when brewing 20 gallons. So for me the lack of heat and fumes is probably the single greatest advantage to electric brewing. Cheers.
Curious on your tasting notes Larry. Since you are an experienced homebrewer; I would like to know if you think the Grainfather produces as good beer as your traditional homebrewing, please have it in mind as I think it's something to consider. I've sold my Grainfather and went back to my igloo and pot... for a couple of reasons, curious what you will think after tasting your first grainfather brew! Cheers from Sweden!
Thanks Larry, love your site and have learned much from you! Question: could you have heated your sparge water along with your mash water and held that in your hot h2o tank for later?
Where did you get the pump for your cooler water and pump instead of using a garden hose? I have the same problem where I can’t use my hose during the winter months & my sink connections do not work.
Hey Larry awesome channel! Would you suggest a good basic rig for a complete new home brewer? I'd rather go straight to kegging to avoid cleaning of bottles etc...
Great explanation of the Grainfather- Thank you! Quick question- How you you get the control module to display Fahrenheit? I got the app switched over, but I haven't figured out how to change the module display. This my first time viewing your channel. I really liked the content and your calm, step-by-step guidance. Thanks!
Great video, i have been waiting to hear your views on the grainfather. Any chance you can share your brew day time, how long the recirculating wort chiller took to chill the wort and if you would consider using a grain brother on a brew day to get to a 10gal brew? would be interesting to see brew time if you did.
BEER-N-BBQ by Larry I’m thinking of being able to test it for those wanting to go the grainfather route and are worried they may want to do 10gal batches later on like you...great work on the channel. A lot of good reviews over time to motivate me to do something here in South Africa.
I just bought a grainfather and have been watching a ton of videos on it, but this one was the most helpful bc it showed the process from start to finish. I also appreciated the honesty throughout - making the little mistakes and not editing it out is actually quite helpful so I can avoid similar problems (that I'm sure I would have done also). Thanks for the great tutorial!
No matter what we do, we learn more from our mistakes than triumphs. This was most enjoyable.
I couldn't agree with this more. This video was probably the best I've seen for the beginner!
Ditto
Agreed, I am about to buy one and have been doing research into which BIAB system is best for me. Larry should be on commission from Grainfather. This video is so comprehensive, it has essentially convinced me I need one.
i guess Im asking the wrong place but does any of you know of a method to log back into an Instagram account?
I somehow lost the account password. I would appreciate any assistance you can offer me
Larry. After sparging, spray some cold water on the outside of the Grainfather and you can see the level of hot wort to see if you need to add more water. That way you don't have to take the grainbed off.
Love how you're never afraid to show your screw ups. We brewers know all about those (!) yet most choose to edit them out. You show 'em warts and all Laz. Love your honesty.
I have trouble watching 5 minute videos sometimes, but I watched every second of this. Super helpful, honest, and entertaining. Well done! I just bought a Grainfather and have been nervous about my first brew, but this video put me at ease as you reminded me that it’s OK to make a few mistakes while learning a whole new system. Thank you!
Great review, Larry! I’ve done about 10 batches now on my Grainfather and haven’t looked back! The small footprint is perfect for my 2BR apartment, since I can just store it the corner of a closet.
I was having a sad evening and the piano ditty lifted my mood ☺️🙏🏻
Really cool video, thanks for not editing out the mistakes in your process, helps really make a better decision!
I just completed my 1st Grainfather all-grain brew and it went great. Thanks for all your reviews and tutorials to get me to this point.
Thanks, Larry, for your thorough and personable approach. Really helps to visualize the brewing process. My brew partner and I just bought a G30 and will do our first batch ever next week, so discovering your video couldn’t have come at a better time! All the best from Stockholm, Sweden.
Hi have to say thank you, Iv been watching you for the last 6 months and thanks to you iv picked up my own fermentasaurus and just started it first brew. So again thank you for all your vids.
Hi Larry Greetings from the UK - just bought the GF Connect, so will be starting a partial mash kit shortly. Thought I would get to all-grain in easy stages. I already have the GF Conical Fermenter, which I've been using for kits - great piece of gear also. Your vid and honesty therein much appreciated!
Yes, been using David's videos too. Jumped to his defence recently, as he was getting some criticism.
A great idea to publish a “full” footage. Those who are interested will watch it with pleasure. The others will skip to another YT production. That’s all. Thanks! Great job!
Watched the lot, from start to end without pausing and I enjoyed :) Have a grainfather myself, but only two brews under my belt so far. What I haven't used though, is the 'connect app', so really pleased to see that part of your video. Well done...thumbs up from me.
The long video was good pal! Detail is what I was looking for. Thank you and well done.
Blichmann has a in-line ThruMometer so you can keep an eye on your wort temperature going into the ferementer.
That was a great insight Larry. I have been putting off getting one of these machines. Now seems to be a good time.
The programme that comes with it is fantastic.
Thank you.
Nick
Hi Larry, I just watched your Grainfather: First Brew Day video. I haven’t started yet, but will be doing so on or just after my retirement in a couple of months time. I intend using Grainfather and doing whole grain brewing so I was really interested in your experience. I found the video really interesting and it just makes me more than ever want to get started. Thanks - I am going to check out other vids now.
Nice job going through the GF! Considering a G40 (as well as the required house/garage wiring needed) and your detailed bids really helped with some questions I had! Thanks.
Just finished putting together my new grainfather, I had a few queries about the mechanics which you have answered perfectly , much appreciated
Excellent 1st brewday, you did however forget to mention if you hit your gravity marks. I will look forward to your future videos. Cheers!
This has explained a lot that’s missing in other videos. Good work !
Thanks for showing the entire process, including cleanup!
Glad it was helpful!
This is the best video about the Grainfather so far, thanks a lot for making it !
At about 30 minutes mark of this video I went ahead and purchased Grainfather G30 to replace my Brewmaster 50L clone. Thanks man, your video was very helpful!
Glad I could help!
I just heat the spargewater in the grainfather and pump it to a seperate vessel leaving the mashwater in the grainfather. If needed I heat the spargewater further afterwards by tapping some of it into a kettle, boiling it and pouring it back into the vessel. I brew in the kitchen anyway.
Great video. I’ve been brewing on the Grainfather for 15 mos, 20-25 batches. Wish we could talk so I could share the little tricks I’ve learned along the way. I had previously been doing extract brewing and the GF extended my brew day but the expanded range of brewing options make it a no brainer. And like you said, the small footprint is fantastic.
I also just started brewing on the grainfather after doing extract. I am only 2 brews in i the grainfather and am very happy with it but I would like to hear some if your tips and tricks
Chris, send me your email address. I’m bogey@jjlangley.com
just bought the grain father as first time grain brewer. also bought beersmith 3 for help to transfer the recipe. ive been looking to try to do kits until comfortable just buying ingredients and doing myself. any help on kits that alrdy have recipes up on grain father? or a website that has them. very confused on manuelly doing it since it doesnt convert perfectlty. any help is appreciated. also can email me at ryannewell2013@gmail.com
Thanks for making this video! I recently purchased a Grainfather but am new to homebrewing and wasn't really sure how the system would work. This video has definitely helped me feel a lot more prepared for my first brew day on it.
Hey Larry, thanks for the video. A tip for checking the volume without being able to look inside: use a spray bottle with just water and spray against the outside of the kettle on where the volume marks are. Because the wort inside is warm you'll see it condense up to where wort is filled.
Nice job, Larry! Pretty impressive boil too. I'm hoping for the same when I finally get around to brewing on mine. After seeing this I'm thinking I'll pre-sanitize the chiller (before the first hop addition, perhaps), so not to disturb the cone after whirlpooling.
Best Grainfather Review So Far Thank You.
VERY cool! I haven't brewed beer in about five years now and am getting back into it. I used to do all grain. I can't believe the advancements in the homebrew market in just five years! I'll be ordering one of these for sure! Great video! Thanks!
Hello Larry
I liked your Grainfather video. I have a Picobrew S. I been looking at this system for when I move up to the next step in brewing. I like the app part of this product. I dont have the time to sit about and watch the brewing part sometimes. That's why I got my Picobrew and I didn't have to know how to make the grain mix. I like the fact you show how to do did this from the start. It makes a guy I me see that everyone has the same problems with a new brewer. The fact that the instructions don't alway say every step is good for me to see because I don't have your skills yet. I have to order all my grain mixes from out of town places due to the fact that I don't have a Brew store near me. I emailed the Grainfather company and they said I can get the 220 voltage system. I have 220 voltage in my garage for my Buzz box welder. It will take bit of a while to get this one but I think it will be worth the wait.
Thanks for your video
And to Puzzlebox your a JERK !!
Cool video, thanks! I am new to brewing and have recently acquired this Grainfather. This video helps me a lot to get to know the Grainfather better before I start brewing with it.
Great video. Looking forward to getting my system next week!
I purchased a Grainfather and made this recipe. It was my first batch. The only change I made was to reduce the amount of hops by almost half. I personally don't like hoppy beers. I enjoyed the brew day with the Grainfather. I took a full keg to a party yesterday and it was gone in a short time. Everyone loved this beer. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Larry - really good video - helpful. Like Tim below I just got a Grainfather and your deep dive was just what I wanted. Tons of lessons learnt. Thanks from cold and wet Sydney, Australia.
This video really helped me out Larry. Thanks so much for taking the time to do this for guys like me. I had to go back and reference this a few times.
Enjoyed that Larry. My first Grainfather brew tomorrow, so hoping not to mess up!
Thanks for the video, Larry! Helped me a lot to understand the process better.
Great video. I switched a few months ago to the Grainfather from my propane system. I brew more due to the fact my other system was kept in the third floor and was a hassle getting all of the equipment down to my garage to brew. Now I keep my Grainfather in my garage and when I want to brew i just plug it in. A hopspider or hop bag is a must with this system. I was surprised that it didn't just stop pumping with all of the hops in there. If you're on the fence about purchasing one, see if your LHBS rents them. I was able to rent one and see if I liked it. I went from going to sell everything since I had basically stopped brewing to becoming an avid brewer again. I brew everything from pale ale to triples in it. I am now beginning into lagers. I do have one question though. Did the app have an alarm for each step of was it just on the unit. I have the first generation without the connect.
Great video! I've been wanting an electric system for awhile now and I like how this mostly all in one system will have a much smaller storage footprint in my garage. The main thing I need to consider is that I like to brew 2 or 3 consecutive batches on a brew day to make my total brewing time more efficient, but I won't be able to do that with this system. In case you don't know what I mean, I'm talking about having the first batch in the boil kettle, while the 2nd batch is sparging, while the 3rd batch is mashing. I also like having the option of brewing 5 or 10 gallon batches using either my 10 or 15 gallon bill kettle while using the same mash cooler. Just something to consider before I decide to buy The Grainfather system.
Just bought mine, brewed my first batch and I’m sold on how easy it was.
Thanks
This was my go-to video to learn how to use the G30 in anger, as I'm a total brewing noob, thanks so much Larry. I've done 3 brews now, the second one was the best, but the 1st and 3rd have been spoiled by too much trub in the wort after cooling, very similar to the appearance in your video. I'm thinking that this is because the wort either isn't getting properly whirlpooled at the end, or as other commenters have said, the pump action for the counter cooler is drawing trub up from the bottom and into the FV. Another possibility is that the bottom perforated plate isn't fitting snuggly, and too many particulates from the mash are getting through, but you'd think the filter would remove these. Would appreciate your advice on this. Essentially, we should be trying to get the trub cone away from the filter - would tipping the vessel a few degrees away from the pump help maybe?
Grainfather is prone to clogging; either around the tiny filter, in the pump, or in the safety ball valve.
I began using a robobrew false bottom to help avoid it all, but other people use hop spiders/bags or remove the ball and spring in the safety valve to prevent clogging.
I bought one of these last week, going to do my first all grain today.
you can fit the cooler inside the machine for even more compact storage.
THanks a lot for the video Larry, im new to all grain brewing and just bought a robobrew v3 , had a hell of a time finding a long video showing all the steps of using an all in one, this answered a lot of my questions and was entertaining to boot. I think I have the confidence to try my first batch on my robobrew
I have watched some of his videos, very informative aswell, his review helped me decide on the robo v3 . yours just had a few more in depth steps that helped. and was good to see how easy the cleanup was
Great video. Looks like an interesting product. Take the thread tape off the hose fittings though. There's a rubber washer in there for a reason. Only use tape on pipe fittings. Cheers!
Another great video Larry. You do a great job explaining everything. Very informative. Can't wait to get the rest of the components for my 5 gallon system so that I can begin brewing. Keep the beer videos coming.
Long video and I enjoyed every bit of it and never skipped a second! Good job Larry and now I'm thinking about going shopping 😀
Fantastic video thanks Larry. Very informative and honest. I'm a newbe so I'll be referring back to this multiple times.
I've had that once with the hops had clogged the filter. Although the finished wort still drips out the tap, it is obviously impeded. I think it is to do with the mesh size being too fine becuase it didn't happen with another hops filter with bigger perforations. I use hop socks now.
The clogging I get mainly comes from a clogged valve (with the spring and ball). Definitely not a unit that can tolerate free floating additions.
Good video Larry. If you want to improve the flow through your counter flow chiller turn the chiller so the flow goes in the bottom and out the top, else you can get an air lock in the chiller. Also, put your hops in bags or a spider, it makes the clean up easier too. Cheers.
BEER-N-BBQ by Larry That is why I just use the muslin bags.
I have almost fin my home made grain father so with system wired up temporarily ran first batch last night, just need to tweak software a bit , I’m using a PLC for heating and pump control, my friend is working on a Raspberry pie version, but as I said months ago all inspired by your channel. Thanks Larry
Hey Larry, I watched several of your videos and find them very helpful. I'm really new at home brewing. Three 1 gallon kits. Then I just picked up a Picobrew S used twice, picoferm, and four picopaks all for $250. The plan is to scale up to 5 gallons later this year and been researching the grainfather as an option to kettles and burners. This was a really great video to help me in my decision.
Also watched the fermenter comparison and decided to go with glass based on the info you provided.
If ever in the San Francisco area, hit me up and I'll take you to my hometown microbreweries. armstrongbrewing is one, the other is 47hills
Cheers!
Thanks so much for making this content Larry - this is still my go to video on how to use Grainfather.
I watched to the end.. No skipping!! Lol could it be that Larry is converting to electric?!?!? Lol I feel the same way about my 20 gallon system. It is hard to do 5 gallon batches on my system. That's why I am about to build a 10 gallon kettle E-Biab system so I can do pilot batches. Good video Larry! I saw the length and was like... OMG, but it was nice and informative and did not seem as long as it was. Cheers! 👍🍻
BEER-N-BBQ by Larry can't cover all of it in 10 minutes!! Cheers!
People can choose to watch it all or skip ahead etc....more is better :)
WickedBrews yep! A lot of times with a long video I will put time stamps in the description to let people know where points of interest are. 👍🍻
HA HA. I wasn't dropping hints.. Lol
BEER-N-BBQ by Larry Internet is down again!!!! Little snow storm took it down again.. Might have to switch companies.. Releasing a video instead.. Not happy.. 😠😳
Great video. I am considering buying a grainfather and watching someone actually brew with it helps a lot. Thank you.
Very good info, my experience with cold tap water running through chiller gets temp down so very quick to get to 20deg c :)
Great video man. I know it's a bit lengthy, but brewing is always lengthy.. I've been using the grainfather for a little over 2 years now. And I gotta say, the grainfather is an amazing system, small footprint, great efficiency, and indoor brewing is awesome! But best of all, even when you "outgrow" a 5 gallon system like this It's still a PERFECT pilot system.
Plus I've seen quite a few of your videos, and I finally subscribed (I have no clue why I didn't subscribe earlier) Anyways, thumbs-up man! Keep doing what your doing.
Hey Larry, thanks for the in depth video showing first usage of the grainfather. Learned a lot from this video. Can't wait to pick mine up. Cheers brother =)
I've been looking into this and it seems that the International version is 110 and the New Zealand version is the 220. To make up for the lack of power, I have been looking at a hot rod heat stick. I still have not pulled the trigger on this yet. Maybe next year they will have the 220 volt system out for the North American market as well. Will be worth it for me to wait.
Great video. Looks like a great brew system for someone with limited space. Also the use of electric lets you brew all year. I have to brew in the garage with the door open because of the Propane burners. Not fun in the winter!
Forgot to mention before thanks for killing some time at work LOL.
I’ve been enjoying your videos on making beer. I currently only do cider and mead, but I am considering an extract kit to try out since I wouldn’t have to buy any extra equipment before I know if I want to add beer to my brew hobby.
Thanks Larry. Non techies appreciate knowing the challenge of process details they face.
I watch this video when I brew on my GF. Im on my 3rd GF brew, and this is a great follow along. One thing I figured out this session was to measure water with the grain bucket out! That may be why your (and mine) mash was so thick.
Thanks for the review, Larry. I’ve really been considering the Grainfather, so I’m glad you happened to do a review. It got to a point for me that my 10 gallon batches with the burners and mash tun and everything, are starting to feel more like a chore.
The grainfather just seems like less of a “chore”
Great video Larry. I’ve been thinking about getting a Grainfather.
Awesome! Been waiting for this one!
Also excited about my first batch- only a few weeks to go (really low on gravity, but I know what I did wrong).. thanks for all the informative and inspiring videos, Larry!
Thanks for the video. You may end up with a better beer by NOT pushing the screen down before the sparge and by your deviated boil time. Always note mistakes in brewing as they can sometimes lead to a better beer for your particular taste :). I have failed to note mistakes in the process and ended up not being able to reproduce some of the best beers I have ever made. I have found to never stress subtle mistakes as they can sometimes lead to fantastic results. What I needed to learn to always note mistakes to obtain reproducible results, it's science man and always a learning process.
You also may have had a NPT thread on the feed out of your chiller source cooler opposed to GHT, that would cause the longer male thread on the feed to not seat the washer on your chiller input properly thus requiring the thread sealer. Have been there.
Thanks for the additional tip on using hop socks.
I totally dig your tip on pilot brews. It is a way to prove recipes and process before moving to the big system. I was actually doing 2.5 gal recipes with my mini HERMS system before moving them to the big system.
Thanks, great job.
It's always a learning curve trying new products for the first time. At times, I want to just go back to my old setup where I'm most comfortable, but with stuff coming in from vendors, it's hard to not want to use with them.
Looks like a great device! Very nice video too!
watched till the end , great video Larry keep them coming!!
WOW!
So now.... what you cannow tell us about counterflow chiller and it's performance?
Great review of a first batch! Also, glad Im not the only one that brews in crocs!
As much hate as they get, they really are great for brewing (and other things). When I brew in my garage, the concrete floor usually ends up getting wet. They are pretty good at gripping the wet surfaces and saving me from slipping. And they're good for my back! I also just ordered my GF......
Larry - a terrific run-down / demo. Been thinkin' about one of these for myself but...have decided to build a custom set-up based upon 50 litre kegs
Very Cool Larry.
Just discovered the channel recently Larry. It's been great learning from you, I'm only about 5 brews in but I wish I'd watched your videos sooner. It made me chuckle when you said 5 Gallon is an experiment brew though. Man, in the UK that's a full batch. I'm downsizing to 10ltr while I work things out.
Thanks for the video, really useful stuff. Mine arrives tomorrow and this has made it less intimidating
Hi, Larry! Do you think a BIAB process can be applied to the Grainfather machine? Adding more water and grains at the beginning, based on a specific "loss" computation?
Great review, it pretty much answered all my questions about equipment limitations (external sparge). I think the only question I have is I keep hearing about the 120V system takes awhile to heat water. How long was your brew day and what would it have been if you used your propane system? Thanks much.
Great video Larry!
Great video Larry, thanks for sharing!
Very good review
Larry, I've watched many of your videos. You go into great detail and I appreciate that. I'm looking at purchasing a digiboil and then adding a pump to go the cheaper route. I'll probably just make an immersion chiller like the one you made. Anyways thanks for the great videos. Oh and the food you make looks awesome! 👍👍
thanks for the great video like always. I hope you will do a video of when you taste this beer and give your comments about it. thanks again great job
Nice one Larry
Tnx a lot, from North Norway
Nice video Larry as always, I'm looking at the RoboBrew at the moment and that's due to the price, I cant really afford more. Hopefully you can do a review of the RoboBrew. I spread the spent grains over the garden and the birds love it.
Not to hijack Larry's video... but I have several videos on the ROBOBREW on my channel.
Yes, I have seen yours and enjoyed them also, I just can't get enough. lol
rayman954 cool thanks!
Thanks for the video .. I would like to know how much time it takes you the entire brewing session.
Thanks for the video Larry. Great work (as usual). It’s a cool system. But I think I like the “old fashioned” way. My system is pretty simple and I’m having a lot of fun with it. Maybe it’s because I’m new to brewing and still have that initial enthusiasm. I also have the benefit of a designated brew space, so I don’t have to worry about storage, etc. But it’s cool to see other systems in action. It does make me think about the addition of electric elements rather than the burners though.
P.S. I watched it all the way through (no skipping). When the content is good the time flies.
Well, if you’re ever up this way, give me a call. We can do a brew day in my brewery and film a field trip episode. Then we’ll hit the water for some salmon to BBQ.
What type of "old fashioned" system do you have Darren? I started with 5 gallons on the stove 25 years ago, then progressed to gas, and finally to electric brewing. Its all good. All have their advantages. All are fun. All can produce great beer. In my opinion problem solving, designing and engineering upgrades and improvements in ease and efficiency, are a huge part of the rewards of the hobby. And with all the new products available these days its a wonderful time to be converting a home brewery to electric. Now you can find all sorts of ways to attach a 5500 watt element to a kettle. I upgraded to TC clamps a few years ago....they're da bomb. Plus now there are so many options for heat control...anything from a simple dial for $25 to a "complex looking" control panel with PIDs and lights that allows you to automate various things. Cheers and have fun with the conversions. They will be worth it :)
WickedBrews I’m sporting a propane burner system. Three tiers (HLT, mash tun, and boil kettle) using kegs that I converted to kettles (keggles). I’m having a lot of fun with the building. I made the system, the brewery, my stir plate, and chiller. I decided to dive in with both feet. I went straight to a 10 gallo. Capable system, and didn’t start brewing until I had everything built (including the space to do it). So there’s not a lot of upgrading for me to do. I’m lucky to have space, and an awesome wife.
That sounds awesome. Very similar to what I had...3 tiers with 2 burners and converted kegs for HLT and kettle. Made some great beers on that system. Only now my keg kettle and HLT each have a 6000 W element in them. I totally agree the building and designing is half the fun. I live in Canada and brew in my garage...which does have infloor heat so its very comfortable...but when I used to use propane I had to keep the door open somewhat at all times. The heat and fumes would build up fast when brewing 20 gallons. So for me the lack of heat and fumes is probably the single greatest advantage to electric brewing. Cheers.
Thanks Larry, another great video!
Thank you for your work!
Film is very informative, and helpful.
Have a nice day!
Cheers!
Curious on your tasting notes Larry. Since you are an experienced homebrewer; I would like to know if you think the Grainfather produces as good beer as your traditional homebrewing, please have it in mind as I think it's something to consider. I've sold my Grainfather and went back to my igloo and pot... for a couple of reasons, curious what you will think after tasting your first grainfather brew! Cheers from Sweden!
That's not a good sign...😩
Great video as always Larry! Keep up the good work! Cheers!!
Thanks Larry, love your site and have learned much from you! Question: could you have heated your sparge water along with your mash water and held that in your hot h2o tank for later?
Where did you get the pump for your cooler water and pump instead of using a garden hose? I have the same problem where I can’t use my hose during the winter months & my sink connections do not work.
Hey Larry awesome channel! Would you suggest a good basic rig for a complete new home brewer? I'd rather go straight to kegging to avoid cleaning of bottles etc...
Thanks Larry!
Great explanation of the Grainfather- Thank you! Quick question- How you you get the control module to display Fahrenheit? I got the app switched over, but I haven't figured out how to change the module display. This my first time viewing your channel. I really liked the content and your calm, step-by-step guidance. Thanks!
@@BEERNBBQBYLARRY Found it- Hold set up button down for 6 seconds. It doesn't say that I can't use that time to also drink a beer, so ... ;-)
Thanks Larry
Great video, i have been waiting to hear your views on the grainfather. Any chance you can share your brew day time, how long the recirculating wort chiller took to chill the wort and if you would consider using a grain brother on a brew day to get to a 10gal brew? would be interesting to see brew time if you did.
BEER-N-BBQ by Larry I’m thinking of being able to test it for those wanting to go the grainfather route and are worried they may want to do 10gal batches later on like you...great work on the channel. A lot of good reviews over time to motivate me to do something here in South Africa.