Effect of ambient temperature on mashing pot

I've been wondering for a while, and not least now that I've found a post here about how to solve my calibration issues on the Sestos S1D PID, whether the ambient temperature surrounding the mashing container will effect the container in such a way that I may need to recalibrate depending on season?

I live in Iceland and I usually brew on my balconies. This means that I'll be brewing in temperatures ranging from -5°C to maybe +15°C. I have a 50 liter steel pot and a 5500 W element. I usually mash with around 35 liters in the pot, excluding grains.

To formulate my question specifically: Would a 20°C difference in ambient temperature significantly alter the mashing temperature or would the PID be able to keep it under control?

Topic mashing homebrew

Category Mac

1
answered at

As far as the temp controller it doesn't care what the ambient temp is, unless the ambients exceed the tollerance of the controller IC it's self. Dry -5°c shouldn't be an issue with it working properly.

However, you have to consider the exposes areas of the pot are a huge heatsink. Insulate it the best you can.

Your biggest concern would be cold spots, mainly the edges and top. A recirculating mash or often stiring will help.

If left to only diffuse heat from the element, the mash in close proximity to the element may reach denaturing temps trying to heat to where the temp sensor is.

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