If you want the right taste for your home brewed beer, you need to use the correct ball valve in the brewing process. It is also important to to select and to use the valve safely and correctly otherwise it could affect the taste of the beer. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Use a Proper Valve
Many home brewers, especially first timers, often use whatever hardware they can find lying around to construct their brewing system. This isn’t recommended as it can cause leaks, contamination and won’t last very long. A stainless steel, rather than brass, home brew ball valve is worth the investment as it will be reliable, hygienic, easy to clean and will last for much longer without replacement.
Correct Installation
If you don’t fit the valve correctly at the installation stage, it could cause problems down the line. If you are unsure about what to do, there are tutorials available online, including video tutorials, that can show you how to install the valve correctly.
Regular Cleaning
Although using boiling water will kill off most germs from the valve, it is still important to remove, strip and clean the valve from time to time to get rid of any residue, thus keeping the equipment working smoothly, and therefore not affecting the taste of the beer.
Buy From a Reputable Supplier
There are many places online that sell valves, but using a reputable supplier, especially one that specializes in valves, can ensure you are getting the best products. Hardware stores don’t always have the right equipment for your specific needs.
If you are new to home brewing, learning the techniques on which valves to use, will save you both time and money. By choosing the right valves, installing, and maintaining them correctly, you can stay ahead of the game in home brewing.
