What should you think about when becoming a Homebrewer?

Becoming a homebrewer, or returning after a long break, can seem like a daunting task. Some of the help you’ll need is specific to you, which you can ask at alesmithinghomebrew@gmail.com or come ask us in store. Other information is about homebrewing in general. Homebrewing is pretty simple once you are in the swing of things, but there is a lot of information that can help you get started and improve. We have lots of articles with info to help you know, what you need to know. But what do you need to think about before becoming a homebrewer?

First you have to think about what you want to do, seems simple but there is a lot to consider. To start how much room do you have? Space is a big restriction when it comes to homebrewing, our 5 litre kits can fit almost everywhere but larger homebrews may not be possible for everyone. This of course goes hand in hand with how much ale do you want to make? Even if you do have the space for a fermentation bucket you have to think about being able to store the bottle or keg in the right conditions. If you don’t have a chilled area you can store them for a long period it could be an issue. Most living spaces should be able to handle this but it is worth thinking through what exactly is right for you.

Along with the space to homebrew, you need to think about what equipment you currently have. It is not unusual to have a large pot lying around, you could also check with a relative for a demijohn or other equipment. This equipment must be checked over though as you don’t want to use something that may break or has large cracks where bacteria could hide. If you don’t have anything our starter kit pack is all the specialist homebrew equipment you need to get started. Over time you can acquire more equipment but it is most important to get the basics. You’ll also need general kitchen equipment (listed in our recipe which comes with every kit). Most of this is stuff you’ll already have like a hob, a cup and a way to boil water.

Once you’ve figured out what to do the question becomes how? We have a lot of articles already for general tips and our kits come with detailed instructions. The most important thing you need to know is you are going to be dealing with a lot of hot sticky liquid and that timing will be incredibly important. The act of brewing is no harder than most cooking, arguably easier as no step is particularly complex. The hard part generally comes from knowing what and how much to use, which our kits easily solve by giving you all the ingredients you need already weighed out. Everything else is just stuff you’ll pick up as you go, you don’t need to know all about homebrewing day 1.

Then the only question left is what do you want to make? Because homebrewing means you can create whatever you want.