Hydrometers & Jars Range
Hydrometers & Test Jars
Measuring Cylinders
A hydrometer is an essential tool for any beer or wine enthusiast, providing valuable information about the fermentation process and helping to achieve the desired alcohol content and flavour profile. Whether you're a seasoned brewer or just starting out, a hydrometer is a must-have instrument in your brewing arsenal for those important measures for the best results.
What exactly is a hydrometer?
It is a measure device for relative density resembling a thermometer with a weighted bulb at the bottom and a calibrated scale on the stem. The principle behind its usage is simple but powerful for low density liquids. By measuring the specific gravity of the liquids, which indicates its density compared to water, a hydrometer can determine the sugar content and potential ABV level during fermentation potential alcoholic strength. Some hydrometers can measure high density liquids. But the hydrometers we sell are best not to be used for dairy products.
How to use a hydrometer?
A small sample of the beer or wine is taken and placed in a graduated cylinder tube or test jar. The hydrometer is then gently lowered into the liquid, allowing it to float freely. The reading is taken where the surface of the liquid intersects with the scale, providing an accurate measurement of the specific gravity. Temperature can effect readings, look for a temperature chart to adjust if temperature is too high.
During the fermentation, the hydrometer is used to track the progress of the conversion of sugars to alcohol. Initially, the specific gravity will be higher, indicating a higher sugar content. As the brew ferments, the yeast consumes the sugars, converting them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. This leads to a decrease in specific gravity, which can be monitored over time using the hydrometer.
By taking regular readings with the hydrometer, brewers and winemakers can determine when fermentation is complete or if any adjustments are needed to achieve the best results when brewing. This information helps ensure that the desired ABV content is achieved and that the beer or wine is fermenting properly.
Furthermore, a hydrometer can assist in troubleshooting any issues that may arise during the brewing or winemaking. For example, if the specific gravity remains unchanged for an extended period, it could indicate a stuck fermentation or other problems that need to be addressed so please always read and check your hydrometers.
A hydrometer is a valuable tool for beer and wine makers. It provides vital information about the progress of your home brew, helps achieve desired ABV levels, and allows for adjustments to be made if necessary. With its help, you can ensure that your brews and wines turn out just the way you want them - delicious and perfectly balanced. if you got a cloudy wine use a filter this may also have an impact on the hydrometer.
Hydrometer Instructions Download
How to test a hydrometer:
You can check your hydrometer with tap water at around 20oC and it should read 1.000 if it works then great, but if it does not read correct your hydrometer might be faulty.