Alright, I’m fairly new to brewing. I have been doing extracts all spring and summer. My dad (brewing partner) and I are planning on going all-grain next spring, but FIRST we want kegs. We’re currently bottling. I have a few questions for you.
First, where do you get CO2 filled? Do local homebrew shops do it? Gas supply store? We have a local welding service place that will fill them rather cheaply, but I’m not sure if there is a difference in gasses. Is there a “food grade” CO2, or is it all the same?
Secondly, is it common to filter CO2? I’m a little concerned about contaminates getting into my beer from the CO2, I know it can be a dirty gas. So, do any of you fellow homebrewers use air filters on your CO2 lines? They are pretty cheap so I’m thinking about getting one when I build my CO2 system. If you do, what specific filters are you using?
Lastly, (this may be better as it’s own post) what is better, filtering beer between fermentation and keg, or using gelatin to get clarity? What are the main pros and cons of each? I can see starting out using gelatin and then adding proper filtration later on because it’s cheaper. What will happen if I don’t filter at all? Do I need to let it condition in a keg for a while? Will I have problems with sediment and yeast in the keg?
CO2 is CO2…I don’t think I’ve ever seen food grade CO2 and I’ve been using it for 15 years. I get mine filled (actually I swap) at a fire supply place. In 15 years and many tanks, there’s never been a hint of a problem.
I get my tanks swapped at a local welding supply shop, the first time I asked this question they laughed at me:) like Denny said co2 is co2.
That being said if a tank is poorly maintained there can be debris or corrosion in the tank but it’s not the gas. This was explained to me when they stopped laughing :0
I also swap tanks out at the local welding supply. There is a grade now where the co2 is supposed to be “inspected” (the mental visual of that is hilarious) for beer and soda use. Of course, they add on a $4-$5 extra charge.