Do Hop Spiders Work With Pellets?
A hop spider is a nifty little contraption that is not too difficult to make, especially if you follow a few simple steps. It is designed to help you keep hops from clogging your brewing system, thus improving the flavor and aroma of your finished beer.
It is important to use the right size spider for your brewing needs. A large spider will work best for larger batches, while a smaller one will be more suited for smaller batches. The size of the spider also reflects the amount of hops you plan to add.
The hop spider also helps you to keep your hops in place during the boil. If you agitate your hops with a spoon while they are in the spider, the particles will fall into the wort instead of splashing out.
It’s a good idea to sanitize the hop spider before and after each brew. A hose and a soft brush will do the trick. You can also clean it with hot water and a mild soap solution.
The main function of a hop spider is to catch the hops. Using a hop spider will allow you to save time in your brewing process. Aside from preventing clogging, it will also help you remove the hop solids before fermenting your beer.
Hop spiders come in two sizes. The larger ones can accommodate more hops and give you more control. The smaller ones are better suited for smaller batches and less-hopy beers.