Filter system options

hobbyiswine · Mar 28, 2012

I am thinking of looking into a filter system. I know I should get an all in one pump first so I am kinda putting the cart in front of the horse but I know I will get the all in one (hoping someday soon) but am looking into filter systems. The whole house option looks interesting. The mini jet sounds like a mess with the leeking problems. What all do I need to get a GOOD functioning filter system? I would likely be running small batches through it up to maybe 15 gallons at a time.

hvac36 · Mar 28, 2012

The mini jet is a good filtering system, like anything it has its limits. When filtering you need to start with a CLEAR wine, its the sediment that cloggs the pads and makes them leak. Dont think of it as a Filter more of a Polishing process. So the clearer the wine the less problems.

Deezil · Mar 28, 2012

I went with the whole house filter option myself, but i have a vacuum pump. (I've yet to use my filters though, i prefer time & gravity)

As hvac pointed out, the key to successfully filtering with any system is to start with a clear wine. Hazes are the exception.

+1 on the polishing theory

roblloyd · Mar 29, 2012

The setup that makes the most sense involves a vacuum pump. The mini-jet is really just for filtering and for the same price you can get the all-on-one. The vacuum pump can help you rack from carboy to carboy, filter and bottle. If you want to piece it together yourself you will probably spend about the same or a little more than going with the sponsor here. There is a post here about the whole house filter setup. If I find it I'll post the link.

Flem · Mar 29, 2012

+1 to what Rob said. Just to reiterate, to use a whole house filtration system, you have to have a vacuum pump. Good Luck!

winemaker_3352 · Mar 29, 2012

I have a mini-jet now that i use - i also have a vacuum pump - and will some day switch- but as will use the mini-jet until it doesn't work anymore.

I have had no issues with the pump leaking or anything.

I just run 3 gallons of acilidated (Citric Acid) through the pads first - it kind of preps them and gets any lose fibers out of the way.

hobbyiswine · Mar 31, 2012

Thanks to all for the info. Much appreciated. I will be moving this summer and will be making room for a better setup. Not sure how long it will take to get all the fun tools like the pump and filter system. Thanks!