One of the major deterrents of people interested in homebrewing is the initial investment. It may seem like a lot to invest in something that you don’t even know you’ll stick with it. For me at least, I intitially was so focused on doing it right the first time that it took away from the whole experience. I wanted the right equipment in order to make the perfect brew. Boy, was I wrong.
The Equipment Basics
- 1 Brewpot
- 1 Stirring spoon
- Sanitizer
- Measuring Utensils
- Thermometer
- Primary Fermentor and Lid
- Empty Bottles and Bottle caps (Read how to reuse bottles here)
- A bottle capper
- Optional: Siphon hose (if using a fermentor without a spigot)
The Basic Ingredients (Brew Stuff)
- Yeast
- Fermentable Sugars (extract
- Water
- Hops
Beer is arguably one of the gods’ greatest gift to man. Amazingly enough, it’s only made from 4 ingredients. Pretty soon, you will be enjoying your very own brand right out of the brewery you call your kitchen!
Money Saving Breakdown:
So I know what you’re thinking, “Ok Max, get to the point, why does this save me money?”
Well, a 5 gallon standard batch will yield anywhere from 45-53 12 oz bottles of beer.
How much would it cost to buy 50 craft beers from your local liquor store? Well, let’s do some beer math (the only way I’ll do math):
50 beers is approximately 4 (12-packs). Each 12 pack is approximately $10-$14 (depending on area and type of beer) = That will run you anywhere from $40- $56!
Now let’s analyze my last trip to the brew store:
- 1 grain steeping bag (like a tea bag but for grains)
- malted barley extract, grains or your choice of fermentable sugars
- hops
- yeast
Total price comes to: $30!
50 beers for $30? That works for me!
That’s not the only way to save money while brewing. How do you cut costs while making your signature brew?