So I am making the jump from extract to all-grain and was targeting a 20 gallon mash tun. I still want to stay with 5 gallon batches, but I love big stouts and want to have a mash tun that can hold a large grain bill (28-30lbs). Plus if i ever do want to increase my batches to 10 gallons it won’t be a problem.
My only problem now is that the manufacturer (Ssbrewtech) says it doesn’t recommend the 20 gallon mash tun for 5 gallon batches. What do you guys think? Obviously i will be ok with the high gravity stouts, but will I have trouble mashing a 5 gallon pale ale in the 20 gallon mash tun?
In my opinion, it’s best to use an appropriately sized tun. The appropriate size helps to maintain temp and prevents a very shallow grain bed (less of an issue with batch sparging). I use coolers and have three that I use depending on grain bill.
Alright thanks for the responses guys. Not what I wanted to hear, but I’m glad I figured that out before I invested in the 20 gallon mash tun just to figure out it wasnt going to serve my need.
Get a 10 gallon. It will be best of both worlds. You’ll be able to mash 20+ lbs of grain for big 5 gallon batches or medium gravity 10 gallon baths. Doesn’t hurt to add a bit of DME to the kettle either.
Are you planning a RIMS system? If so, you could go with the 15 gallon as you won’t need to worry about holding the temperature. 15 gallon can easily mash 30lbs on a RIMS setup at 1.5qt/lb
