Brewing equipment begins with the kettle, a large pot for heating or boiling water or wort.
A brew kettle of sufficient size and quality is essential to brewing.
Like most brewing equipment, kettles come in all varieties; from the Blichmann Boiler Maker G2, called the “Cadillac” of brew kettles by some, to simple large stew pots.
Considerations
Size |
Size is the most important consideration when selecting your kettle. If you are planning on brewing 5 gallon batches you will want a kettle at least 10 gallons in volume. For BIAB I highly suggest 15 gallons. This will allow you to mash with the full volume of water needed for the entire brew. |
Material |
Stainless steel is the most popular material for a brew kettle, but a less expensive aluminum kettle can serve just as well. Generally, stainless steel is more durable. |
Ports |
While not absolutely necessary, ports can make brewing safer and easier by allowing you to add a drain valve. This makes moving a heavy kettle unnecessary. A thermometer port allows you to read temperatures much more conveniently. |
Extras |
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Considerations
Size
Size is the most important consideration when selecting your kettle. If you are planning on brewing 5 gallon batches you will want a kettle at least 10 gallons in volume. For BIAB I highly suggest 15 gallons. This will allow you to mash with the full volume of water needed for the entire brew.
Material
Stainless steel is the most popular material for a brew kettle, but a less expensive aluminum kettle can serve just as well. Generally, stainless steel is more durable.
Ports
While not absolutely necessary, ports can make brewing safer and easier by allowing you to add a drain valve. This makes moving a heavy kettle unnecessary. A thermometer port allows you to read temperatures much more conveniently.
Extras
- Volume markers inside the kettle or sight glasses outside make it easier to measure how much liquid you have.
- Adding a pickup tube allows you to drain your kettle below the level of the drain valve.
Our Recommendations
Our Recommendations
This inexpensive Kettle will last for years. It doesn’t have any bells or whistles, but it is more than capable of making awesome beer.
Your grandkids will be handing this Kettle down to their grandkids. Heavy duty with a thermometer, valve, and volume markings. This will no doubt be the last Kettle you ever buy.
Other Options
Kettle | Burner | Mash Tun | Grain Filter | Fermentor | Wort Chiller