Direct fired brew kettle: the pros and cons

There are three main brewhouse heating options when it comes to brewing. Is it so:

• Electric heating
• steam heating
• direct fire

Direct Fire Crafting

Brewing uses an open flame as a heat source. It usually has a firebox under the kettle. Compared to Steam, it is easier and cheaper to install. Compared to electricity, it is more expensive and there are more regulations to overcome.

If you’re brewing in a remote area, direct fire is easier to install, since you can use propane tanks connected directly to the burner.

Safety issues of this heating option

Since you are working with an open flame, there are obvious safety issues. There are typical safety issues when using fire:

• Turning on the kettle allows a solenoid to open leading to the electronic pilot light turning on
• If this fails, the system shuts down completely.
• If the pilot light is good, a solenoid opens to the gas sensor and allows gas to flow.
• The air blower then helps power the burner for a hot, steady flame.

Advantages of a direct fire kettle

The initial costs of installing direct fire are less expensive than with steam. In addition, it is also easier to calibrate. Since it only uses one burner and doesn’t need a dedicated boiler room, it also takes up less space.

Since the burner is directly below the kettle, there are no pipes or traps, making installation easier than steam.

You can easily switch between propane and natural gas if both are available at your location. Which can lead to less downtime.

Disadvantages of this heating option

There is a greater chance of caramelization with direct heat. This can lead to off-flavors for lighter beers like lagers.

When using an open flame, you should check local regulations and building codes. This could slow down your path to the opening of the brewery.

There is a greater chance of localized heating with this heating leading to burns. If the wort burns, cleaning after an infusion will be more difficult.

Conclusions of the direct fired boiler

The heating option is best when you are in remote locations or if you are in a built-up area and a steam generator is allowed. It is cheaper to operate than electric heating, although more expensive to install.

This heating option is the choice for brewers who can install steam and if the brewhouse is larger than 12 HL, which means it would consume too much power to use electricity.