#Anvil brewing equipment upgrade#

This system is a snap to unbox and set up. This review will be based on that experience, with the caveat that I’m still learning the system. This includes 5 gallon batches of a German pils, American IPA, Dortmunder Export, Scottish export ale, and stout, as well as a 3 gallon batch each of a moderate-strength winter ale and an imperial IPA. The steel insert to adapt for small batches is supposed to improve efficiency in that case, by preventing recirculated mash runnings from just flowing over the top of the grain bed, rather than through it.Īt this writing, I’ve brewed seven batches with the system. I normally work with 5 gallon batches, and don’t see that changing in the future, but I do occasionally want to brew 2.5 or 3 gallon batches. In terms of options, I got the recirculation pump kit, along with the small-batch adapter. Luckily, I managed to buy direct from Anvil on a 10% discount sale, and they had free shipping! It took about two weeks for the setup to arrive, and I eagerly unboxed it as soon as it hit my doorstep.

#Anvil brewing equipment upgrade#

I want a system that will still work after I upgrade my phone, or when my wifi is down, or if the unit’s software is “helpfully” updated. The final selling point for me was that the controls are supposed to be dead-simple and all on-board the unit, rather than hiding behind a Bluetooth-connected Android app.

Even though I’m limited to 120 for the time being, I like the idea of having the option open. The ability to switch between 120 and 240 voltage was also a plus in the long-term. The heating element was particularly well rated, and had high marks for excellent heating plus minimal risk of scorching. First, the cost (<$500 for the version with pump) seemed fairly reasonable, and the reviews for quality and reliability were solid. Following a week or two of research, I settled on the Anvil Foundry 10.5 gallon brewing system.