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What signs do you use to determine when to put the air lock on?

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keepitlow

NewBee
Registered Member
Nov 27, 2009
119
0
0
NE US
I was told in early fermentation to use a hose running into a glass of water in place of the air lock to keep the air lock clean from fouling. What signs do you use to determine when to put the air lock on?
 

AToE

NewBee
Registered Member
Jun 8, 2009
4,066
3
0
Calgary AB Canada
Well, or you could just have adequate headspace. A blow-off tube is fine if you have to ferment in carboys near batch size (I've done this occasionally), but you're losing mead.

As to when to switch - doesn't matter. That tube IS an airlock techincally, will perform the same function. Just switch when you feel sure the meads isn't going to bubble up into you airlock.
 
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