Dry grain in the step filter this morning after mash and boil. Not too pleased. 1030 SG when expecting 1050. I am going to try a 1070 batch and mix the two. Fingers crossed.
That sux. Any ideas why this happened so it doesn’t happen again?
Edit: I read that you might consider programming a stop point to remove the step filter and stir the grain after mash-in to eliminate dry pockets and low efficiency.
I don’t know what the problem is. The Picobrew is unable to recirculate water/wort right now. Something is plugged up or it isn’t getting suction. I am not sure.
I will have to contact Picobrew for help.
It’ll be something simple.
Any updates?
Still dead. Picobrew wants a video of the machine running so they can evaluate. I haven’t had a chance to upload a video. Traveling too much right now.
I believe a pump or line is clogged.
I believe I finally found the problem. The red rubber gasket in this picture has somehow gone missing. I thought it was missing but there is no mention of it in the Z manual. I had asked PicoBrew support about it but they just kept going down their checklist and didn’t answer. Finally, I asked on a forum and got an answer the day before PicoBrew support got there on the check list and sent me this picture.
PicoBrew puts spares for many small pieces in the Z1 box, but, not this one. I am waiting until Tuesday to hear back from PicoBrew about the size of the gasket or whether I can buy a spare. For now, I have crafted a stand-in from some tubing.
With my work around the PicoBrew Z1 works properly again. Without the gasket there is a not a good seal and the in take pump could not pull liquid.
Yep. Something simple. You can buy a hundred of those and never need another one. But don’t have a spare of something else simple and that’s what you’ll need. At least that’s the way it works around here.
Glad you got it up and running.
How did the Peaty Wheatstraw turn out?
I think I have some spare filter o rings around. PM me if you need one.
Peaty Wheatstraw is pretty good. It debuts tonight at a club competition. 95% Wheat malt, 5% C60 and a bunch Mosaic and Crystal. I brewed it as an APA with 1050 OG. The hops and beer flavors are great. The beer comes off just a little thin. But, overall I am surprised the lack of barley base malt is not very noticeable (except maybe the thinness?).
Thanks for the offer. I’ll wait on Picobrew first. I think/guess they will offer to send some free. The person I am working with is off today. I think I will here tomorrow.
Are you talking to Kevin?
No I have been working with Tim. He is doing well. I am guessing they have grown and there is more than one technical support now.
Yeah, but Kevin’s the best.
Kevin helped me once before. He is good.
Follow up: I received a replacement for my lost gasket. I brewed this weekend. All is well.
Picobrew sent me two new gaskets and an extra drain tube grommet. One of mine was damaged. I still think a mouse took a bite out of piece.
I think my learning curve on the Z1 has taught me air and liquid tight seals are key to Z1 success.
[emoji106]
And having a cat to take care of those mice! [emoji16] Glad all is resolved.
Good point.
I had a cat show up here on a brewday years ago. He has definitely earned his keep. He’s forever bringing his trophies to the back door. …and I love it when he patrols the basement.