So this is my first batch (and my first post!). My friend who has brewed over 150 batches taught me a few things and I've done a lot of research prior to starting, so I'd say I have a basic knowledge level.
I started off with a batch of Baron's Pale Ale - something easy to start with seeing as it's my first batch.
Once I had added everything to my primary fermenter (except the yeast), my temperature was about 80 degrees F. I wasn't sure how long I should wait with the jug open/exposed (wasn't sure if it would harm the beer) before it would cool down to 70-75 F so I could add the yeast. I decided to add a few ice cubes to cool it down, and I added the yeast at 75 F.
Mixed it up and put on the lid with an air lock.
I have two questions:
1) Did I do any harm by adding ice cubes? Should I have just put on the lid and let it cool for an hour or two instead?
2) How long does it take for the yeast to activate? I checked it once a couple hours after I capped it initially and there were almost no bubbles at all.
Thanks for the help with my first post. Look forward to hearing from you guys.
I started off with a batch of Baron's Pale Ale - something easy to start with seeing as it's my first batch.
Once I had added everything to my primary fermenter (except the yeast), my temperature was about 80 degrees F. I wasn't sure how long I should wait with the jug open/exposed (wasn't sure if it would harm the beer) before it would cool down to 70-75 F so I could add the yeast. I decided to add a few ice cubes to cool it down, and I added the yeast at 75 F.
Mixed it up and put on the lid with an air lock.
I have two questions:
1) Did I do any harm by adding ice cubes? Should I have just put on the lid and let it cool for an hour or two instead?
2) How long does it take for the yeast to activate? I checked it once a couple hours after I capped it initially and there were almost no bubbles at all.
Thanks for the help with my first post. Look forward to hearing from you guys.