stir plate/flask

[paulmaybee]

Does anyone have a stir plate/flask lying around that they're not using anymore (before I buy a new one)?  I'd like to give starters a try.

[Al-Loves-Wine]

You don't really need a stir plate to try starters, I just used a growler for a long time and would shake it every so often over the course of 24hr.

But, a stir plate will make your life much easier, and a very sound investment.

[robcoombs]

You don't really need a stir plate to try starters, I just used a growler for a long time and would shake it every so often over the course of 24hr.

But, a stir plate will make your life much easier, and a very sound investment.

+1 on this. I used a growler with sanitized aluminum foil on the top for a long time. It worked fine, never had any issues. A stir plate is definitely nicer to have and surprisingly easy to build yourself.

[paulmaybee]

You don't really need a stir plate to try starters, I just used a growler for a long time and would shake it every so often over the course of 24hr.

But, a stir plate will make your life much easier, and a very sound investment.

+1 on this. I used a growler with sanitized aluminum foil on the top for a long time. It worked fine, never had any issues. A stir plate is definitely nicer to have and surprisingly easy to build yourself.

Cool, thanks.  I guess @blisster would be the one to talk to about building one? 

[robcoombs]

Yes. He helped me out.

[blisster]

There really isn't much to them... You can easily build one for a $10-15.

I have extra hard drive magnets, AC adapters (9-12V works well for most fans), and on/off toggle switches if you can have if you want to build one.

This is the speed controller I used and a fan that would work. Very cheap and free shipping from DX.com but takes 2-3 weeks to get here:
http://www.dx.com/p/12w-speed-controller-for-heatsink-cooling-fan-dc-5-12v-171354#.VKrCEnsYmWI
http://www.dx.com/p/3-pin-brushless-computer-pc-case-cooling-cooler-fan-7-x-7cm-136083#.VKrCgXsYmWI

For the magnetic stir bar, ebay is probably the best bet... The ones with the center ring seem to pivot/spin a better.

I built mine out of a cigar box but have been meaning to rebuild it using a plastic electrical box instead. I'm always hesitant to leave it untended since cheap China electronics probably would light up that cedar box pretty easy. 

[pliny]

http://www.ontariobeerkegs.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=YEAST-STARTER-KIT

[Waterlogged]

That is a good deal.

[pliny]

That is a good deal.

Yes, and it's turn key. Order it now and you'd have yeast ready to pitch by Sunday. (Assuming you go get your smack pack or vial and DME at NG before the kit is at your door.)

[paulmaybee]

That is a good deal.

Yes, and it's turn key. Order it now and you'd have yeast ready to pitch by Sunday. (Assuming you go get your smack pack or vial and DME at NG before the kit is at your door.)

Yes, this is what I'm looking at, and will probably get it this week, but thought I'd check the club to see if anyone had one lying around they're not using first. 

[Two Wheeler]

If I could do it again I would get the 5000ml flask, I've foamed over the 2000 nearly every time

[robcoombs]

If I could do it again I would get the 5000ml flask, I've foamed over the 2000 nearly every time

I went for the 5L and I'm glad I did. Worth the extra few bucks.

[Roger]

If I could do it again I would get the 5000ml flask, I've foamed over the 2000 nearly every time

I went for the 5L and I'm glad I did. Worth the extra few bucks.

Good call I wish I had thought of that. But I've been doing two 2L starters one for each carboy it seams to work just fine for me though.

[paulmaybee]

I just ordered this with the 5L flask.  Looking forward to a new New Year's project!

[robcoombs]

I built mine out of a cigar box but have been meaning to rebuild it using a plastic electrical box instead. I'm always hesitant to leave it untended since cheap China electronics probably would light up that cedar box pretty easy. 

Same here, I never have it going while I'm not home.