Beer Forum

This may just be the anixety of a newb, but last night I put my first batch ever into the fermenter. At about midnight I pitched 1.5 vials (as per Jamil's pitching rate calculator) of WLP002 english ale yeast into 5 gallons of 1.039 wort at about 70*F. Overnight it got down to about 56*F Ive gotten it back up to 65*F but no fermentation has started. I know it's only been 19 hours, so I probably don't need to worry yet, but I'm wondering if the overnight temp drop might hae put the yeast to sleep. I dont have a temp control arrangement set up just yet, but my house is at 65*F anyway so I was thinking this would work out ok for now.
Should I do something, or just sit down and stop worrying?

Have no fear, your yeastie beasties most likely caught a bit of a chill. Once the beer stays warm for a bit you will start to see activity. If you get past 36 hrs. with no activity, then you should probably pitch some dry yeast to salvage your efforts. Welcome to the world of brewing and best of luck on your first batch. While you are waiting around for this one to be ready, brew again!

-brewinhard

PS - as far as temp. control is concerned, move a thermometer around different parts of your house to maintain the temps you need, wrap your fermenter in a jacket/blanket to keep it warm (if necessary), put your fermenter near a heat outlet to keep it warm (if necessary), move it to a basement to cool it down. I think you get my drift.

Good advice on finding the best room in the house. Before I'd pitch new yeast I'd shake that fermenter up and keep in warm 65F +. With 1.5 vials I'd think you have some viable yeast. Very careful if its a glass carboy when you shake it. Rocking is good also. I'd even go like 68F or 70F just until you see activitiy then back to 65-66.