Best Brewing Heaters & Temperature Controls in 2022

Last update: January 14, 2023

Can you take the lid off during fermentation?

Yes, you can take the lid off during fermentation, but you need to be careful. If you take the lid off while the yeast is still active, you risk spoiling your beer. Wait until the yeast has settled out before removing the lid.

Do you put a heating pad on the inside or outside of a tank?

If you are using a heating pad to heat your tank, you will want to put the heating pad on the outside of the tank. This will help to evenly distribute the heat and prevent any potential damage to your tank.

Does fermentation need to be airtight?

Fermentation is a process that doesn't need to be airtight, but it's often done in airtight containers to prevent oxygen from coming into contact with the food.

Does room temperature affect fermentation?

Yes, room temperature does affect fermentation. The warmer the temperature, the faster the fermentation process will be. The ideal temperature for fermentation is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit.


Inkbird WiFi Temperature Controller ITC308 Reptile Freezer Thermostat Digital Heating and Cooling Heater Cooler Greenhouse Plug Outlet 2 Stage 1100W 110V Review:


This is a fantastic temperature controller that is simple to set up and retains temperature settings even if the power goes out (which has happened a lot lately). The plus is that by looking at the temperature tracking history in the app, I can really determine when my power went out and when it came back on (there is no data when there is no power, so a gap in the chart until power is restored). It's also interesting to observe how much better the temperature maintains in a refrigerator or freezer that is almost full as opposed to one that is practically empty and is merely attempting to keep the air cold. I'm thinking about installing one in my refrigerator as a simple alarm that will alert me to whether the door was left open.Highly recommended, would buy again, and have actually purchased a second one since making the first purchase to use in other parts of the house.



Inkbird ITC306T Only Heating Thermostat Plug Pre Wired Temperature Probe Digital Timer Controller Aquarium Heater Seed Germination Reptile Hatching Greenhouse No Cooling Control Review:


First, let me state I did get this product to test out in exchange for an unbiased evaluation.I'm using this device to regulate the temperature in my converted chest freezer. After you find out all the settings and what you actually need to set, it works wonderfully and is truly plug and play. The instruction manual is not the most user-friendly, and setting the unit requires deciphering a lot of initials. There is a flow chart as well, and in my experience, most flow charts make great sense and are simple to comprehend—for the person who made them. This one is no different and might be a little trickier to understand for certain people. I regularly work with controls and set points for heating and cooling, so I am well aware of what is required to set up a machine like this. I'm assuming that most users might not be aware of this. Do not fret. It's not at all difficult to figure out, and once you do, you're pretty much done.Set the temperature you want to keep, in a nutshell. Then, set a temperature that is a few degrees above and a few degrees below your set point temperature (differential). Next, give your unit's compressor a delay. I set a 10-minute window. This will prevent your unit from turning on and off too frequently and maintain a good, steady temperature for your drink.There are also alarms for high and low temperatures that can be set.I secured the temperature probe with a zip tie to a soda can and positioned it in my chest freezer's coolest area. Numerous viewpoints exist regarding probe placement. Some people tape it to the cooler's or keg's side. Some people leave it hanging somewhere or put it in a water jar. You must determine what suits you the best.You should be good to go if you plug your device into the outlet's cooling side. For a day or two, keep an eye on your temperatures, and then adjust as necessary. The position of my temperature probe was the only thing I changed.Overall, this is a superb, straightforward device that performs admirably. There isn't any difficult wiring to delve into, and it has many features. You'll be up and running in no time if you watch a few YouTube videos, in my opinion. Inkbird was really attentive to me and available if you need any help or have any questions.I've tried a variety of controllers, but after using this one, I believe it to be the simplest to use both in terms of setup and comprehension. It's an excellent product. My only criticism would be that the user handbook might need a little work to make it simpler to understand. The only other suggestions would be to add a mounting hole to the bottom of the unit, similar to the top, to allow it to sit flush.



Brewing & Fermentation Heat Pad for Homebrew Beer & Wine Fermenting 120VAC 12 or 25 Watt Heating Mat: Safe for Plastic/Glass Carboy Fermentors w/Heater Temp Strips (10" Heat Mat + Heating Thermostat) Review:


Wonderful vendor! I sent a stupid response since I'm a jerk in an autoresponse after shipping to make sure the product was received, and to my astonishment, she RESPONDED! One of the first occasions EVER that someone replied and assured me of their product.I promised that after I made my most recent batch of brew, I will post a reply. Using the same thermometer for room and must temperatures, these are my findings:I have 5.5 gallons of honey, water, and yeast in a 5 gallon plastic fermenter. being stored on a 3 inch slab of styrofoam in a corner of a living room, away from drafts.I started the fermentation process by placing the pad at the jug's base. For the first four days, the room temperature was roughly 45°F. 53°F must have been consistently measured.When I attempted moving the rig around on the fourth day because I wasn't comfortable with the heat, I discovered that the fermenter's bottom has a raised lip, which means the heater just just made contact with the plastic. I fastened the heater to the bucket's side and anticipated that latent heat would take care of the rest.The temperature in the room has dropped as low as 37°F during the previous 15 days, but overall it has remained warm and cheerful.This heater has prevented the death of my must. It is still steadily bubbling as I write. 14/10 will repurchase



Regetek Cooking Food Meat Grill Thermometer Clock Timer Alarm FDA Approval for Smoker Oven Kitchen BBQ Dual Probe Digital LCD Backlight Thermometer Review:


I was given the voucher since I had previously purchased a thermometer from the same seller or brand. Because I could utilize the coupon, I acted quickly to take advantage of the offer.I have used it a couple times since acquiring it, and I can't think of anything bad about it. Although the menu is not entirely clear, it is also not overly complicated. Since I didn't use any other tools to test the temperature, I believe the reading is rather precise. The larger screen size compared to some other similar goods is one benefit I really like.I own a few barbecue thermometers, but this is the only one I purchased without wireless or remote monitoring. I only used it while I was cooking steak or chicken alongside it. You need one that can remotely check the temperature if you like to slow cook. The alert feature is yet another benefit (not a big thing since you are close to your grill anyway).I would say that everything about this product is generally good. There are numerous brands doing much the same thing.



Homebrew 1/4in Stainless Steel Thermowell and no. 7 Bung Stopper for Glass Carboy Fermentation Thermometer Probe Review:


This thermowell is securely fastened to a high-quality bung stopper that has an additional hole for the airlock. I was a little worried that my DS18B20 waterproof temperature sensors wouldn't fit when I bought this, but they fit like they were made to fit. I believe the sensor is getting a very precise temperature reading because it is just tight enough that I can remove it without popping off the bung stopper.Homebrewing gets better when the temperature is being monitored. I made the decision to upgrade to this after a batch of my Oktoberfest beer fermented way too quickly and erratically during an abnormally warm September and developed unfavorable fruity ester scents and flavors. Instead of using a carboy, I use a bucket, so I simply acquired a stepped drill bit to replace the airlock-specific smaller hole with a larger one. I still manually control the temperature by putting my fermenter in a zip-up insulated item from FastFerment and changing out different-sized frozen water bottles.



Inkbird PID Thermostat Digital Temperature Controller Alarm 1800W 120V 15A Pre Wired Output NTC Sensor R25 ℃ 10KΩ Waterproof Probe Heat Cool On Off Pump Control IPB16S Review:


I utilize a toaster oven to create a solder reflow oven. I removed the mechanical thermostat and wired the solid state relay in its stead.This item comes with a suspect temperature probe because the results were all over the place. Instead, I'm using another K-type thermocouple sensor, and it functions just well.The InkBird PID temperature controller effectively regulates the temperature in my oven, as it should. The auto-tuning function is effective. In the auto tune option, I set the temperature to 150 degrees C and let it to run for a while. I observed as the temperature was adjusted by the controller until it eventually reached 150 C. During the tests that followed, I just turned everything on, and it raised the temperature to 150C and maintained it there within a few degrees with little overshoot or undershoot.I took readings every 15 seconds using an external thermocouple temperature meter. To generate a temperature profile, I noted and plotted the temperature variations.Given how inexpensive this product is, the build quality is excellent—incredible even (I looked inside - the PCB and components are good).I've noticed at least one bug with the temperature presented by the firmware so far. As the temperature slowly increases or decreases, the reading will abruptly change by one degree, as if the tenth position were to suddenly move up to the one position. For example, the readout might change slowly by 0.1C increments (other than at 0 or 9). By placing my hand under the sensor, I am able to detect this at about room temperature. Slow temperature rise is enough to be brought on by increasing body heat. A lack of consistency in the temperature readout doesn't inspire much confidence. But even if the display were one degree off, it would still meet my needs and provide adequate temperature control. I give it four stars since it's a terrific deal.Even though the handbook is awful, it can be understood after a few readings. If they're going to sell these Chinese products in America, you'd think they could locate one native English speaker to create a manual for them.As I run more tests and gain more knowledge, I'll update this review.



3"x20" Kombucha Heater with Strap - Wrap Around Brew Belt with Temperature Control and Thermometer - Perfect Kombucha Fermentation Heater Review:


My first 1 gallon batch of kombucha was ready in 6 days, so it works well enough for me. Although it is winter, I'm hopeful that the 78 degree average temperature on high will increase in the spring. In 4 days, my second batch was completed, and I was overjoyed. On my third batch, I upgraded to a larger, over 2-gallon glass continuous brew vessel, so I used Velcro dots to secure the heat strip to the glass vessel. No, it doesn't go all the way around, but it keeps the temperature on high between 72 and 75. I don't have any issues because everything was completed in four days. Even though it's not warmer, I don't regret the purchase because it gives excellent results. I spent more on this because it had a variable temperature control and because it looked prettier than others I'd seen. The free Kombucha ebook was also a lovely extra that I hadn't anticipated.



FastFerment Conical Fermenter 7.9 Gallon Carrying Strap - Clever Fermentation Accessories so You Never Spill a Batch from Your Home-Brew kit Again! (7.9 Gallon Carrying Strap) Review:


If you have the FastFerment, this is a fairly decent concept. It enables you to transport the fermenter from one place to another. Otherwise, carrying the FastFerment would be difficult due to its shape and weight of over 40 lbs when filled. You must have the stand or the wall mount prepared when you arrive at your destination because you cannot put or rest it on the ground, especially with the collection ball attached.I use the stand in both the kitchen, where I brew, and the basement, where I ferment because I haven't found wall space for setting things up. As a result, I have to lug both the fermenter and the stand. This strap doesn't function in this instance, which is why I gave it only 4 ratings. Instead, in order to move the stand's little bars together, I must cling to them at an awkward angle. I doubt many people have the strength to hoist that high using this strap, even with a wall mount; in that case, a stand may also be required.



Porpoise Brewing Fermentation Heater Wrap with Thermometer Strip Review:


To keep fermentation within a few degrees of the desired temperature, I use this along with an Inkbird temperature controller. I use two Velcro straps to fasten it to the outside of the fermenter. In the summer, I store the fermenter in a temperature-controlled freezer (which I also use to chill kegs) that is surrounded by insulation on all sides and on top. This regulates the maximum temperature. This is not required in the garage during the winter. Product is effective.


How do I control my brewing temperature?

There are a few different ways that you can control the temperature of your brewing environment. One way is to use a temperature controlled brewing chamber. This is a chamber that you can put your fermenter in and it will maintain a consistent temperature. Another way to control the temperature is to use a temperature controlled heating element. This can be placed in your brewing environment and will help to keep the temperature consistent. Finally, you can use a temperature controller on your heating element. This will allow you to set the temperature that you want your brewing environment to be and the controller will turn the heating element on

How do you heat a fermentation chamber?

You can heat a fermentation chamber in a number of ways, depending on the size and type of chamber you have. The most common method is to use a heating pad or wrap, which can be placed underneath or inside the chamber. You can also use a light bulb or other heat source to warm the air inside the chamber. If you have a larger fermentation chamber, you may be able to use a heating element to warm the entire space.

How do you use a heating pad for homebrew?

A heating pad is a great way to keep your homebrew at a consistent temperature. Simply place the heating pad on the bottom of your fermenter and wrap it around the sides. This will help to keep the temperature inside the fermenter warm and stable, which is ideal for fermentation.

How hot is too hot for brewing?

Brewing coffee is a delicate process, and the temperature of the water used can have a big impact on the final cup of coffee. Generally, the ideal water temperature for brewing coffee is between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some coffee drinkers prefer their coffee a little hotter or cooler, so it is ultimately up to the individual to decide what temperature works best for them.

Is 45 degrees too warm for beer?

The answer to this question is subjective and depends on personal preference. Some people might find that 45 degrees is too warm for beer, while others might find it to be the perfect temperature. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not they think 45 degrees is too warm for beer.

Is fermentation done when bubbling stops?

When bubbling stops during fermentation, this is called the "quiet phase." The quiet phase is when yeast cells are finishing up their work of converting sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide gas. During the quiet phase, you may see a few bubbles rise to the surface, but not the steady stream of bubbles that you saw during the active phase. Once the quiet phase is complete, fermentation is done.