Can you give an example of grain bill, recent temp adjusted OG/FG, and yeast strain?
If your FG is super high, there might be more than mash temp affecting it.
I would brew more often, using the same recipe and experimenting with one small change at a time. Document everything and blind test them during several different stages of maturity. Also, entering your beers in competitions is a great way to get impartial feedback.
Having just finished an electric HERMS setup (Thanks Kal! Awesome website-theelecricbrewery.com) I can tell you with absolute certainty that the conveniences do not outweigh the costs. I did it because I had a habbit of tinkering with my equipment (hmmm hmmm hmmm, huh huh huh) between every...
Proper attention to:
Fermentation-temp control, yeast health, pitching rate
Sanitation-a meticulous review of all post boil processes
Education-HBT, BN, studying for the BJCP
1st batch was partial boil then ice bath in the sink.
From 2+ Therminator and pond pump in ice bath
I've tried immersion, counterflow, and no chill. All have their pros and cons.
Therminator has cleaning and clogging issues, but are easily overcome.
Counterflow seems to be the best...
I like buckets because they're easy to clean and they stack neatly in my brew closet. I still use carboys as secondary for high gravity beers and for lagering.
I've never had a problem with light on either. I cover both with heavy duty black lawn bags with a small hole cut in the top for...
It must have been my passion for doing lots and lots of dishes. :)
Originally, I wanted to save money, but that went right to hell after my first all grain.
Now it's mostly that I like the idea of making exactly the beer I want.
Challenge is a big component, as is collecting and building...