Grainfather G40 Instruction Manual

Introduction

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G40 INSTRUCTION MANUAL

G SERIES

LET ME CHANGE THE WAY YOU BREW ?

3 YEAR WARRANTY

Getting Started

Thank You for Choosing the Grainfather G40

Get started by following these instructions on how to assemble and use your G40. We recommend reading the following safety information before use. Please also find enclosed, advice for cleaning and storing your G40.

WARNING! (NORTH AMERICA 220V ONLY)

Please check your unit rating label for the voltage. If your unit is a North American 220V product, the power cord, control box and boiler body included in the box are designed to be used together with a 220V supply. Using any of these components with another product may result in hazards and equipment damage.

Socket Guide (North America 220V Only)

Safety Information

NOTE: Not following the safety information below could result in serious injuries and may void your warranty.

1. Read all instructions before using the Grainfather G40.
2. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or a qualified person to avoid a hazard.
3. This appliance is intended to be used in household and similar applications such as staff kitchen areas in shops, offices, and other working environments; farmhouses and by clients in hotels, motels and other residential type environments; bed and breakfast type environments; catering and similar non-retailed applications.
4. The appliance is for indoor use only.
5. The appliance is not suitable for installation in an area where a water jet could be used.
6. The appliance must not be cleaned by a water jet.
7. The appliance must be in an upright position at all times when in use.
8. The appliance is only to be installed in locations where it can be overseen by trained personnel.
9. The installation of a residual current device (RCD) having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA is advisable.
10. The A-weighted sound pressure level of the appliance should be below 70 db.
11. Always unplug the unit before cleaning, during storage or in the event of a fault.
12. The boiler, lid and pipes may reach temperatures of up to 100°C (212°F) and therefore must be handled with caution. Never move the unit while it is in operation.
13. Handles on the side of the unit are only meant for transportation once the unit is empty and in a cooled, non-use state.
14. Please note that a two-person or mechanical lift is recommended when using larger grain bills on this system. A single person lift may lead to serious injury.
15. Access of the service area is restricted to persons having knowledge and practical experience of the appliance. The maximum and minimum ambient temperatures for normal use of the appliance is: -20°C (-4°F) to 40°C (104°F).
16. To protect against fire, electric shock, and injury, do not immerse cord/plugs in water or other liquid.

Statements for Specific Regions

For Europe: This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.

For the United Kingdom: This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision. Means for disconnection must be incorporated in the fixed wiring in accordance with the wiring rules. The fixed wiring insulation must be protected, for example, by insulating sleeving having an appropriate temperature rating.

For Australia and New Zealand: This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

Anatomy Diagram & Parts List

The Grainfather G40 is comprised of the following components:

• 1. Tempered glass lid
• 2. Support ring
• 3. Support ring retainer
• 4. Hop filter
• 5. Controller, cable and M16 DC connector
• 6. Body
• 7. M16 socket
• 8. Pump
• 9. Power box
• 10. Base
• 11. Recirculation pipe, sight glass, ball valve and fittings
• 12. Lifting bar
• 13. Recirculation barb and hose
• 14. Grain plate
• 15. Grain basket
• 16. Counterflow wort chiller
• 17. Hex nut
• 18. Tap adapter set

NOTE: The full spare parts list for the G40 is available online at help.grainfather.com.

Pre-Brewing Assembly

Before use, it is recommended to clean your G40 and all of its components using the Grainfather High Performance Cleaner. For detailed cleaning instructions, refer to page 14.

Step 1: Installing the Filter

Take the hop filter (4) and place it into the base inside the G40 body (6). It should be a tight fit; apply some pressure to ensure it is securely in place.

Step 2: Attaching the Controller

Remove the G40 controller (5) and the power cable from the packaging. Place the controller securely on the bracket on the front of the unit. Remove the small cap from the M16 socket (7). Plug the controller cable and M16 DC connector into the M16 socket and tighten the securing nut.

Step 3: Connecting to Power

Take the main power cable and plug it into the base at the back of the G40. Connect the other end of the cable to a suitable power socket (e.g., 15 amp in US/CA, 16 amp in EU, 13 amp in UK, or 10 amp in AU/NZ). The controller's display screen should turn on. If not, check that the controller cable and M16 DC connector are securely attached, and verify the main power cable connection.

NOTE (NZ/AU ONLY): The G40 has a default 10 amp mode but can be used in 15 amp mode for increased power. Refer to page 15 for instructions on enabling 15 amp mode.

The G40 Controller

The G40 smart controller features built-in wireless connectivity, allowing you to use your mobile device as a remote control. Connect to the free Grainfather App for step-by-step brewing guidance and access to a wide variety of recipes.

Connection Setup

Upon first turning on the controller, you will see the connection setup screen. Press 'set' to proceed to the default screen.

Default Screen

The default screen displays the current temperature, target temperatures, unit symbol (Celsius or Fahrenheit), timer (when active), wireless connection status symbol, and power mode (for AU/NZ users).

Main Menu

The main menu offers the following options:

• Network configuration
• Settings
• About

Controller interface elements include buttons to 'Activate the pump' (PUMP), 'Set a manual timer' (SET), and 'Activate heating' (HEAT, hold for 10 seconds for delayed heating). Up/down arrows are used to change your target temperature.

Network Configuration

This screen allows you to add new wireless networks and connect your G40 controller. Select 'add new network' and follow the on-screen instructions. You can also clear previously connected networks here.

Settings

This screen provides access to various settings:

• Change units: Select between Celsius or Fahrenheit.
• Calibrate temperature: The G40 uses NTC temperature sensors. This feature allows for an offset to be applied to the temperature probe reading if it is inaccurate, based on comparison with a certified calibrated thermometer.
• Boil temperature: Adjust your boiling temperature based on your location's altitude. You can find altitude and corresponding water boiling points online.
• Buzzer settings: Enable silent mode to disable controller beeping alerts.
• NZ/AU only: Change your unit from 10 amp to 15 amp mode if desired. See page 15 for details.

About

This section provides details about your device. When connected to the internet, you can check for and install new updates to the G40 controller.

Wireless Control & App Integration

For the ultimate brewing experience, connect your controller to the Grainfather App.

1. Ensure your wireless network reaches the G40's location. While wireless connections can span long distances, placing the unit within 10m (30ft) of the wireless router is recommended. Consider a wireless range extender for greater distances to avoid connection issues.
2. Download the Grainfather App from the App Store or Google Play Store and register an account if you are a new user.
3. When you first switch on the controller, you will see the connection setup screen. If not, press the 'set' button, navigate to 'network config', then 'add new network'. Once on the connection setup screen, open the Grainfather App on your mobile device.
4. In the app, navigate to the equipment screen, which displays all brewing and fermenting equipment set up on your account. (Note: Screen layouts shown are for iOS and may differ slightly for Android.)
5. To add a new device, tap the '+' icon (bottom right) and select 'brewing equipment'.
6. Select 'Grainfather' from the list of brands, then 'Grainfather G40' from the list of equipment.
7. On the device setup screen, tap 'ready'. Your mobile device may request permissions required to connect with the G40; accept all requests.
8. For Android Users: If setting up via an Android device, choose your controller in the list (see step 10).
9. For iOS Users: If setting up via an iOS mobile device, follow the on-screen instructions to connect your mobile device to the G40. Once connected, you will receive a notification; tap it to return to the Grainfather App and the device setup screen.
10. Once your phone is successfully connected to the G40 (Android and iOS), select your wireless network from the list, enter your password, and tap 'connect'. Name your device and press 'done'.
11. Setup is now complete. You will return to the equipment screen. Select your Grainfather G40 to access the controller interface.
12. On the G40 controller, you will be prompted to grant permission for remote control. Press the 'set' button and select 'yes'. Your G40 is now ready to be controlled via your mobile device.

NOTE: This permission request for remote control is in accordance with IEC/EN 60335-1 and will appear each time you connect to the G40 via a mobile device.

Within the Grainfather App, you can select recipes, create your own, or use the step-by-step brewing system.

Scan and explore the free Grainfather App.

Brewing on the G40

You are now set up and ready to start brewing! Follow these instructions to guide you through your brew on the G40.

Step 1: Add the Mash Water

Place your G40 on a flat, stable surface before brewing. Positioning the G40 on the floor is recommended due to the heavy lifting involved later. Add the volume of mash water required by your recipe, using the advanced calculators available on the Grainfather App.

NOTE: Ensure the recirculation ball valve is open during this step to avoid a pump airlock.

Step 2: Set the Mash/Strike Temperature

Using the G40 controller or your mobile device, set the required mash temperature and press the 'heat' button to begin heating. Place the lid on the G40 to reduce heating time. If your G40 is connected to the Grainfather App, you can run your brew session remotely.

Step 3: Assemble the Grain Basket

Place the grain plate (14) inside the grain basket (15), ensuring the plate sits firmly on the bottom of the basket.

Step 4: Install the Grain Basket

Slowly insert the assembled grain basket into the G40. Ensure the top of the grain basket rests flat on the support ring (2).

Step 5: Add Grains and Stir

Once your water reaches the set temperature, slowly add the grain to the grain basket, stirring well to avoid any dry clumps.

NOTE: The G40 does not require a top plate or an overflow pipe in the basket, as it has extra drainage holes. A top plate can be used for higher ABV beers if maximising grain usage, to help keep grain in the basket if wort levels are too high and prevent wort draining through the lifting bar holes. An additional grain plate can be purchased separately.

The maximum grain weight the G40 basket can hold is 13kg. This can be affected by grain crush, type, and variety. Using an additional grain plate on top of the mash may help manage this. If unsure, it is recommended to mash up to 12kg.

Step 6: Install the Recirculation Hose

Ensure the hose is securely attached to the recirculation barb (13) and insert the barb into the recirculation opening on the side of the G40 body. Rest the other end of the hose on top of the grain.

Step 7: Recirculate Your Mash (Wort)

Ensure the ball valve (11) on the top of the recirculation pipe is open. To begin recirculating, press the 'pump' button on the controller or via the Grainfather App. If recirculation does not start, press 'pump' to turn it off, blow into the hose to clear any airlock, then restart the pump.

TIP: To save time, prepare your sparge water during your mash.

Step 8: Lifting the Grain Basket

When the mash is finished, turn off the pump and remove the recirculation hose. Close the ball valve on the recirculation pipe. Insert the lifting bar (12) into the holes inside the grain basket. Lift the grain basket and turn it 45° so its feet rest on the basket support ring (2).

CAUTION: A two-person or mechanical lift is recommended when using larger grain bills on this system. A single person lift may lead to serious injury.

Step 9: Sparging and Basket Removal

Allow the mash liquid to drain into the boiler. Gently pour sparge water evenly over the grain until the water is a few millimeters above the grain, then allow it to drain.

TIP: To save time, you can now start to increase the temperature in preparation for the boil.

CAUTION: Be very careful not to twist the basket while it's in the sparge position, as it could knock it off the support ring. If the sparge is stuck and not draining, remove the top grain plate (if applicable), lower the basket, and slice the grain bed with a stainless steel paddle or similar. Cut from the center outwards repeatedly until it loosens. Then, return the basket to the sparge position and replace the top grain plate (if applicable) to continue sparging.

Always ensure the support ring fits tightly into its groove and is held by the support ring retainer (3). If you remove the support ring for cleaning, ensure it is correctly reinstalled with the retainer.

Once the sparge has finished, refit the lifting bar to the grain basket to lift and remove it from the boiler.

NOTE: If using a large grain bill, scoop some grain from the basket to reduce weight before lifting.

Step 10: Boil Your Wort

After removing the grain basket, complete the boil and add hop additions as required by your recipe.

CAUTION: During the boil, do not fit the glass lid, as this may cause a boil over.

Cooling with the Counterflow Wort Chiller

The G40 includes a counterflow wort chiller (16), designed to efficiently cool your wort and allow easy, sanitary transfer into a fermenter.

Cleaning

Before first use, run cleaner through the counterflow wort chiller. Refer to the CIP (Cleaning in Place) section on page 14 for detailed instructions. Ensure your fermenter is clean and sanitised before cooling and transferring your wort.

Flow Rates

The maximum flow rate of water through the counterflow wort chiller is 6L (1.6 US Gal) per minute. Do not exceed this flow rate, as it may cause damage. The maximum flow rate of wort through the counterflow wort chiller is 4L (1 US Gal)/min. At this flow rate, with a tap water temperature of 20°C (68°F), the wort in the fermenter should be approximately 25°C (77°F). You can achieve wort temperatures close to 3°C (37°F) above your tap water temperature by reducing wort flow and adjusting the 1/2" ball valve (11).

Chiller Operation

1. At the end of the boil, turn off the heating element. Create a whirlpool by stirring the wort vigorously with your paddle. (Note: A moderate whirlpool may automatically form due to pump force.)
2. Place the counterflow wort chiller on a table or bench. Push fit the hose barb on the end of connection A into the recirculation opening inside the G40 body. Ensure that none of your wort or water tubes are sitting underneath the chiller; water tubes should exit from the top. If a tube is squashed or kinked, it can cause pressure build-up and prevent liquid flow.
3. The colored hoses indicate water flow: the blue hose connects to your tap (using adapter set 18) for cold water entry, and the red hose is for hot water exit. Connection D is where your wort exits the chiller.

TIP: Collect some of the hot water from the red hose to use as cleaning water after transferring your wort.

4. To sanitize the counterflow wort chiller, place connection D into the G40 body. Turn the pump on to recirculate wort back into the G40 for approximately 1-2 minutes, without cold water circulating.

NOTE: The G40 is designed to cool while simultaneously transferring wort to your fermenter. Cooling by recirculating into the G40 reduces thermal efficiency.

5. Turn on the cooling water. Once connection D runs cool, switch the pump off. Place the end of the hose inside your clean and sanitized fermenter. Keep the fermenter opening covered to avoid contamination during transfer.

NOTE: Take an OG (original gravity) reading of your cooled wort before adding yeast, at the correct pitching temperature for your recipe. Fit a bung and airlock to your fermenter.

Advice for Cleaning & Storage

No one really enjoys cleaning, but it's worth it for great beer!

• After use, the G40 and all components should be cleaned immediately and dried thoroughly. Grainfather High Performance Cleaner is recommended for removing the need for tedious scrubbing. Stainless steel components can also be cleaned with a conventional, unscented brewing detergent/cleaner.
• Abrasive agents and sponges/brushes can cause scratching and are not suitable. Use a dish brush or soft sponge for cleaning.
• Do not store in a damp area, as this can damage the product.
• Once cleaned, dry, reassemble, and store your equipment.

Cleaning in Place (CIP)

1. Remove all trub and solids from the G40 by removing the hop filter, rinsing it, and setting it aside. Remove the hex nut (17) from the T-section of the recirculation pipework and flush any remaining trub. Re-attach the hex nut.
2. Fill the unit with 15L (3.9 US Gal) of water and 1 cap of Grainfather High Performance Cleaner.
3. Heat the water to 60°C (140°F) and clean the unit with a dish brush or soft sponge.
4. Attach the counterflow wort chiller. Place the connection D hose from the chiller into a 5L (1.3 US Gal) jug. Switch the pump on and let the water run into the jug until it clears. Then, place the hose back into the unit to recirculate the water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Once complete, switch off the heating and pump. Remove the hex nut to allow the unit to drain.
6. After draining, repeat steps 2-5 using clean water to rinse and flush the G40 and counterflow wort chiller.

CAUTION: RISK OF BURNS Use heat-resistant brewing gloves or other suitable gloves during this process.

NOTE: An additional ball valve tap can be fitted to simplify the cleaning process. See the next page for details.

Pump Cleaning

It is recommended to clean the pump every 5-10 brew sessions, after cleaning the G40.

1. Turn the unit upside down and remove the four screws on the base.
2. Using pliers, squeeze and shift the hose clamps away from the pump inlet and outlet.
3. Remove the four screws holding the pump in place and detach the inlet and outlet hoses from the pump.
4. Remove the screws holding the impeller housing to the pump.
5. Remove the top cover of the impeller housing to expose the impeller.

NOTE: There is no need to expose the magnetic drive pump.

6. Use a pipe brush or similar tool to clean the impeller and impeller housing.

NOTE: Do not submerge the pump in water.

7. Dry the components and reassemble the unit.

Upgrade Your G40

Get the most out of your G40 Brewing System with these optional upgrades.

Adding a Ball Valve Tap to Your Unit

A ball valve tap can be added to the G40 for quick drainage from the bottom of the unit. The tap accessory can be purchased from the online Grainfather Store or your local retailer.

How to Install the Ball Valve Tap

1. Remove the hex nut from the T-section of the recirculation pipework.
2. Transfer the o-ring from the hex nut to the tap.
3. Install the ball valve tap onto the T-section.

NZ/AU Only: Upgrade from 10 Amp to 15 Amp

CAUTION: To upgrade your G40 to 15 amp mode, a 15 amp power socket must be professionally installed. Do not plug a 10 amp cable into a 15 amp socket, as this is a serious fire hazard. Running in 15 amp mode with a 10 amp cable and socket will trip the ELCB.

How to Upgrade Your Unit to 15 Amp Mode

1. Purchase the NZ/AU 15 amp power cable accessory from the online Grainfather Store or your local retailer.
2. Plug the 15 amp power cable into the base at the back of your G40.
3. To change to 15 amp mode, use your G40 controller: go to 'settings' from the main menu and hold the 'heat' button for 10 seconds.
4. A pop-up warning will appear. Click 'set' to proceed; your unit is now in 15 amp mode.
5. To return to 10 amp mode, hold the 'heat' button for 10 seconds. A pop-up warning will appear; click 'set' to return to 10 amp mode.

Important Safeguards

READ AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION: Risk of fires and electric shock. Replace only with genuine Grainfather cord set, part No. SJTO. Do not immerse in water.

SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDOOR USE ONLY.

WARNING / AVERTISSEMENT: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN.

Scan and explore the free Grainfather App.

Resources:

• Check out the Grainfather YouTube Channel for helpful videos.
• For more information, visit the Help Centre: help.grainfather.com
• Get in touch online: help.grainfather.com/hc/en-us/requests/new

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