Full disclosure: I've got efficiency issues. For some reason, my AG batches have been achieving ~50% efficiency. I believe this is caused by inefficient temperature distribution throughout the grain. At this point I do not have a true false bottom, so I have been taking a page out of the BIAB playbook and using a large mesh bag. I assume no matter how much I poke and prod at the bag, there will be cold or even dry grain towards the middle of he bag. More recently, I've moved to a stainless 400 micron mesh filter. The filter has improved efficiency a few points, but I still can't help but think there are cold spots, and certainly a lot of room for improvement.
I've got a few ideas on how to improve my efficiency (better water chemistry, and I'd like to eventually convert my cooler to a RIMS a-la skidsmint https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f36/mash-bucket-system-399490/ ) but I'm wondering if simply agitating the mash to achieve more uniform temperatures would get me where I'm wanting to go. Right now I'm picturing some sort of cordless drill mounted to the lid of the cooler rotating something in the mash tun. I recently purchased a mash paddle (plastic spoon wasn't strong enough and was bending when I stirred) so I'm hoping that will be enough, but if it's not I want to be prepared with my next plan of attack. What do you guys think?
I've got a few ideas on how to improve my efficiency (better water chemistry, and I'd like to eventually convert my cooler to a RIMS a-la skidsmint https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f36/mash-bucket-system-399490/ ) but I'm wondering if simply agitating the mash to achieve more uniform temperatures would get me where I'm wanting to go. Right now I'm picturing some sort of cordless drill mounted to the lid of the cooler rotating something in the mash tun. I recently purchased a mash paddle (plastic spoon wasn't strong enough and was bending when I stirred) so I'm hoping that will be enough, but if it's not I want to be prepared with my next plan of attack. What do you guys think?