To obtain a water profile for brewing, one option is to send a sample of your water to a company like Ward Labs. They offer a convenient and reliable service that allows you to analyze the composition of your brewing water. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to proceed:
1. Purchase a water test kit: Visit the Ward Labs website or give them a call to order a water test kit. The cost is around $30, which includes the test kit and the analysis of your water sample.
2. Collect a water sample: When you receive the test kit, you will find a water sample bottle included. It's important to collect the sample from the source where you will actually obtain your brewing water. This could be your tap or another water source you use for brewing. Make sure to clean the tap or faucet before collecting the sample.
3. Run the tap for five minutes: Before collecting the water sample, let the tap run for about five minutes. This helps flush out any stagnant water in the pipes and ensures you get a representative sample of your brewing water.
4. Collect the sample: After running the tap, fill the water sample bottle provided in the test kit. Be careful not to touch the inside of the bottle or contaminate the sample in any way. Fill it to the indicated level, usually marked on the bottle.
5. Ship the sample back to the lab: Once you have collected the water sample, securely close the bottle and ship it back to Ward Labs for analysis. Follow the instructions provided in the test kit for proper packaging and shipping. It's advisable to send it as soon as possible to ensure accurate results.
6. Receive the water analysis report: After the lab receives your sample, they will analyze it and generate a detailed report. This report will provide you with information about the various minerals, pH level, and other important factors present in your brewing water. It will give you a comprehensive understanding of your water's profile and how it may affect your brewing process.
By obtaining a water profile for your brewing water, you can make more informed decisions about adjusting the water composition to suit different beer styles. For example, certain beer styles may benefit from water with higher or lower mineral content, specific pH levels, or different levels of hardness. Understanding your water profile allows you to tailor your brewing process to achieve the desired flavor and characteristics in your beer.
In my experience as a brewer, analyzing the water profile has been crucial in creating consistent and high-quality beers. It has helped me understand why certain beers turned out differently based on the water used, and it has allowed me to make targeted adjustments to achieve the desired results.
Obtaining a water profile for brewing involves purchasing a water test kit, collecting a water sample from your brewing source, shipping it to a lab like Ward Labs, and receiving a detailed analysis report. This information empowers you to make informed decisions about adjusting your brewing water to create the best possible beer.