Mine supports the hobby but she only likes that watered down racecar beer. She's a good sport and tries most of them but I have yet to make one she likes.
She's better looking than me too. Much better ass! ;)
My son loves to use the capper. He's eleven and only about 55 lbs so he has to put all of his weight into pushing down the arms. It's funny to watch but he loves it.
My daughter usually does the sanitation. She uses the Avinnator bottle rinser with starsan.
With the kids help, I can...
Thermometers do not contain mercury anymore. They use alcohol in it's place so mercury poisoning is not an issue.
However, in my opinion, I think you're making the right move. I wouldn't risk it either. I'd dump it and call it a learning experience.
Before I pour the LME, I wash the outside of the container with soap and water. When it's time to pour the LME, I pour out as much as possible and just dip the container in the water before I stir. I scoop up some of the nearly boiling water and stir/swish it in the container to dissolve the...
Ok, I chilled one today and had a taste. It's better than it was a week ago but it's still a little bitter for the style of beer. Now, the taste while drinking is acceptable. The after taste is still a bit strong. I'm going to let it sit another week and try it again and let you all know how...