Hydrometer question

[brandon4432]

I'm aware that hydrometers are looked down upon in the hobby and refractometers are the way to go but if using a hydrometer how accurate are they at 80 degrees?

 

[billdogg]

Although they may not be "dead on", it is easy enough to calibrate them with a known source. As long as you rinse them well and look carefully for air bubbles you will be fine.

Consistency is at least as important as the actual number, IMO.

 

[kfisc]

Be aware that refractometers are no more accurate than their last calibration. They can also age poorly: coatings peel off, screws rust and so on. Hydrometers calibrated to a good reference are just as good.

 

[ericarenee]

be aware that refractometers are no more accurate than their last calibration. They can also age poorly: Coatings peel off, screws rust and so on. Hydrometers calibrated to a good reference are just as good.

1+

 

[Ron Reefman]

I have a hydrometer that I 'calibrated' with a freshly calibrated refractometer. The hydrometer read 0.004 too low. So I labeled it with that info. It's been in use for years and every time I re-calibrate my refractometer (every 6 to 9 months) I compare readings with the hydrometer again. Many years on and the hydrometer is still 0.004 too low.

Every hydrometer is different. Just get it compared to a good refractometer and label it. After that, keep it clean and watch for bubbles on the swing arm. As billdogg said, consistency is as important as an exact reading. I hardly ever use my refractometer.

 

[JMorris271]

Milwaukee MA $ 140
generic hydrometer $12.

The $140 refractometer must be better. Hmmmmmm
FTR I have both.

 

[Ron Reefman]

Milwaukee MA $ 140
generic hydrometer $12.

The $140 refractometer must be better. Hmmmmmm
FTR I have both.

Probably not if you know what you are doing. But it sure helps you spend money faster!

 

[JMorris271]

Probably not if you know what you are doing. But it sure helps you spend money faster!

Was playing devil's advocate there. :lmao:

 

[nuxx]

Had a hydrometer that was on for years... then just stopped working right.

Bought a new one and was off after a week.

Just buy a refractometer and calibrate it every few months.

 

[CStrickland]

I'm aware that hydrometers are looked down upon in the hobby and refractometers are the way to go but if using a hydrometer how accurate are they at 80 degrees?

A lot of people don't prime the needle. I let mine sit wet for a few minutes then dump it out and test the water. Idk, just an old wives tale I read somewhere but mine works fine. I check it against a better one every once in a while and so far so good. I also soak a few hours in vinegar now and then. I don't think the temp matters like it does for the refractometers and tds meters and other digital checkers