Siphoning is simply the transferring of liquid from one container to another using gravity. In brewer's lingo, it's also called racking. Some simple rules to adhere to while siphoning include the following. Always keep the vessel you're racking into below the first vessel. Avoid bubbles in your tubing, and keep a stolid flow of liquid at all times in your tubing. Try not to use your mouth to start a siphon. It is not sanitary, and unnecessary.

The easiest way to create a siphon is with an auto siphon. If you don't have this piece of equipment, you can use your racking cane and siphon hose. Place your racking cane into the container you are racking out of. Fill your siphon hose completely full with sanitizer, and plug both ends with your thumbs. Attach one end to your racking cane, then slowly lower the other end into a bowl or cup. The sanitizer will pull the beer or wine up the racking cane. When the sanitizer is gone, carefully move the hose to your second vessel and finish your racking. Keep an eye on the bottom of your racking cane in order to avoid sucking up yeast or sediment.

If you have any questions about racking your beer or wine, please feel free to call us @ 1-800-450-9535, or email us at outpost@homebrewers.com