FAQ Q: Is it difficult to make beer? A: No.  If you can boil water, you can brew beer.  The best thing about having a local brew supply store is that if you do run into a problem, all you have to do is call or come in. Q: What kind of equipment do I need? A:  You will need a 5 gallon (4 gallon minimum) stainless steel or enamel stock pot for the boil.  Do not use aluminum as it will adversely affect the beer.  You will also need a large stirring spoon made of metal and a glass carboy.  The rest of the equipment you will need is in the Equipment Kit, which we have at the store.  This kit includes a plastic fermenter(also known as the primary fermenter) with lid and airlock, a bottling bucket, siphon and filler, bottle brush, thermometer, hydrometer and capper.  After 3 weeks, the only other things you will need are the bottles and caps. Q: How long does the process take? A: Cleaning and sanitizing the equipment shouldn't take more than 15 minutes especially if you use the One Step Cleaner.  This is the most important step.   The next step is the boil.  From beginning to end , this step usually takes about 1 1/2 hours depending on the style of beer you make. After the boil, the wort must be cooled to 80 degrees or less as quickly as possible.  A sink full of ice usually does the trick but you must be careful not to get anything into the wort.  This can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes. Pouring the wort into the primary fermentor and adding the yeast will take about 5 minutes. So on a good day, brewing a batch should take anywhere from 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Back to Top Q: What's the cost? A: The equipment kit sells for $75.00.  If you want a Brewer's Best Ingredient Kit, the cost will range from $25.00 to $35.00.  An all-grain batch can run anywhere from $10.00 to $20.00.  The ingredients for a five gallon batch will produce just over 2 cases of beer. Q: Can I make any style of beer? A: Yes, basicly if you can buy it, you can make it.  However, it is not cost efficient to brew a beer like Bud or Miller.   We have recipes available at the store.  There are recipes available on line, through brewer clubs, and in books and magazines.  Also, don't be afraid to experiment, there is no right or wrong. Q: How much space will I need? A: During the brew stage, you will need your stovetop and adjoining cupboard to put the ingredients on.  If the aroma is not appreciated by your family, a turkey fryer in the garage works well.  You might want to keep a cooler with warm water and 1 Step in it for quick sanitation needs.  During fermentation and aging, you will need the space of the 5/6 gallon bucket. Q: What if something goes wrong.  Will the beer make me sick? A: The beer will not make you sick physically but it might leave a bad taste in your mouth!