Question: How long can I leave a blow-off tube in?

Kel Varnsen · Post by **Kel Varnsen** » Thu Apr 05, 2012 9:03 am

The subject pretty much is the question. I ordered one of those 1 gallon kits from Brewers Market and got it this week. The only problem is the airlock is cracked, and I don't think it will hold liquid. They are sending out a new one but I really want to brew on the long weekend (I am assuming the new airlock won't come until next week). So I am wondering if I go through the whole process and set up the fermenter with the blow-off tube end in sanatizer and everything how long can I leave it like that before I have to change to the airlock? I know both the air lock and the blow-off tube do pretty much the same thing, but I am wondering if there is an advantage to the airlock?

jcc · Post by **jcc** » Thu Apr 05, 2012 9:15 am

Just leave the blow off tube on throughout the entire primary fermentation, you don't need to change it.

Kel Varnsen · Post by **Kel Varnsen** » Thu Apr 05, 2012 9:19 am

Excellent, thanks for the help. I really didn't want to have to wait until next weekend to brew, especially since I am usually super busy on a regular 2 day weekend.

Tapsucker · Post by **Tapsucker** » Thu Apr 12, 2012 3:46 pm

Once your beer is fermenting, there will be a layer of CO2 over it (unless you disturb it). Anything to keep fruit flies or contaminants dropping in, should protect it fine. I can't see how the blow off tube would ever cause harm.