OxiClean can be used to clean brewing equipment. OxiClean is a versatile cleaning product that contains sodium percarbonate, which releases hydrogen peroxide and soda ash when dissolved in water. This combination helps to break down and remove stains, grime, and buildup on various surfaces.
When it comes to brewing equipment, such as kettles, hoses, pumps, and chillers, it is important to maintain cleanliness to ensure the quality and taste of your beer. Over time, these components can accumulate residue, mineral deposits, and other organic matter, which can affect the flavor and overall performance of your brewing process.
To clean your brewing equipment using OxiClean, you can follow these steps:
1. Gather your equipment: Make sure you have all the necessary components ready for cleaning, including the Boil Kettle, hoses, pumps, and chiller.
2. Prepare the OxiClean solution: Measure out a scoop or two of OxiClean powder, depending on the size of your equipment, and dissolve it in hot water. The recommended temperature is around 170F (77C) to ensure effective cleaning.
3. Recirculate the solution: Once the OxiClean solution is ready, you can recirculate it through your brewing equipment. Start by connecting the hoses and pumps to create a closed-loop system. Ensure that the solution reaches all the parts you want to clean, including the Boil Kettle, hoses, and chiller.
4. Let it circulate for an hour or two: Allow the OxiClean solution to circulate through your equipment for an extended period, typically around an hour or two. This gives the cleaning agents enough time to break down and dissolve any buildup or residue.
5. Rinse thoroughly: After the cleaning process, it is important to rinse your brewing equipment thoroughly to remove any traces of OxiClean or dissolved debris. Use clean, hot water to flush out the solution from the system, ensuring all surfaces are adequately cleaned.
6. Inspect and repeat if necessary: Once rinsed, inspect your brewing equipment for any remaining residue or buildup. If needed, you can repeat the cleaning process with fresh OxiClean solution to achieve a more thorough clean.
It is worth noting that OxiClean is generally considered safe for use in brewing equipment, as long as it is rinsed properly. However, it is always a good idea to check with the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult other brewers who have used OxiClean for cleaning similar equipment.
In my personal experience, I have used OxiClean to clean brewing equipment, and it has proven to be effective in removing stubborn stains and buildup. However, it is important to follow the recommended guidelines and ensure thorough rinsing to avoid any potential impact on the beer’s flavor or quality.
To summarize, OxiClean can be used to clean brewing equipment by dissolving a scoop or two of the powder in hot water and recirculating it through the Boil Kettle, hoses, pumps, and chiller for an hour or two. Thorough rinsing is essential to remove any traces of the cleaning solution, and it is always wise to consult manufacturer guidelines or other brewers for specific equipment recommendations.