I have the brewers Hardware 15g jacketed and I really like it. It has all the capabilities I will ever need. It is a little more cleaning disconnecting and reconnecting all the parts but not a deal breaker IMO. With any decision you make there is always pros and cons, with that being said...
I have the same 15 gal fermentor and also the non-jacketed one. Wish i wouldn't have been so hasty on the first purchase and spent the extra for 2 jacketed. They are awesome in terms of looks, quality, and the near endless possibilities for customizing to fit any process. Great write up and...
I have 2 15gal brewers hardware conicals 1 temp controlled, 1 is not... they are both great if you can spare the coin. If i could do it over again i would forgo the none temp controlled and have them both controlled
Just my 2 cents as well, I use contractors and I saw where augiedoggy posted "contractors for the win". Why are you not wanting to use them? When your element is dry firing and a manual shut off is priority one it's the best way to go to ensure you don't mess any of your equipment up or dare I...