Blichmann continues to innovate on behalf of the little guy. Thanks for a thorough and comprehensive review, SCB. I'm adding the Rip Tide pump to my Fathers Day wish list. I recently purchased the Quick Carb and used to successfully carbonate an Irish Red. It worked very well - thanks, Blichmann!
Thanks for the comment Dennis as I stated in my blichmann quick carb review I am not a blichmann fanboy but I am a big fan of things that work!! Cheers! -Brian
Nice! I I think it was time for me to upgrade anyway I went the cheapest route I could possibly find when I built my system, but I definitely need to incorporate cleaning my pumps in my normal Brewing process more than what I currently do and the Riptide will help me put that in place! Cheers! -Brian
new to your channel here, loving the content. the honesty comes through and having someone else take the time to put experience into video is really appreciated.
Bear in mind that the Blichman pump bolts the impeller housing to the motor body via a very thin aluminium plate on the motor body. It is very easy to strip the threads on this plate and blichman will not sell you a replacement. This has meant that I will have to throw away and entire $350 pump (I am in the UK) as Blichman refuse to provide spare parts to anyone in my situation. I cannot even buy a new motor as a replacent as they are not available in the 230v required in the UK. To say that I am less than impressed with Blichman in this is an understatement. I would advise anyone to steer well clear, esp so if you're not in the USA.
Hi Brian, long time no talk. I have purchased 2 riptide conversions for my march 815's, purely for ease of cleaning and can confirm the riptide conversion is around 1LPM faster than the 815. Very impressed with that.
Great video. Seems very honest and informative. I’ve run Chugger pumps for 10 years and only had one failure for over temp. They can be tricky to prime under certain circumstances. If the time comes to replace them I’ll try the Blichman. Thanks for the info!
Hello Brian. The best combination I have tested is the Chugger motor with the Blichmann SS pump which impeller is more effective than the others. I have had an awful experience with the Blichmann motor. The magnetic couple is very weak and about the third brew day it started to scream and blocked. I tried to reassemble several times but it was a lost cause...
Regarding the Blichmann "dial valve" (I suspect it behaves something like a gate valve), I consider that a great benefit - add a second valve, such as a ball valve or butterfly valve, downriver.
I have had problems with a Chugger Pump TCPSS-CI but i assume it is problem of all the pumps that have magnetic coupling between the electric motor and the pump. The magnetic coupling does not work when the fluid is at 100C (212F), you need to wait until it reached 95C (203F) or below before the rotor starts to move. Any solutions to that, maybe there is a small pump (1/4 inch inlet/outlet) with mechanic coupling instead of magnetic? please.
I really like the rip tide. My chugger works well, but as you mentioned adding the valves and whatnot add up. Also I have had the impeller stop working while recirculating near boiling wort...also the motor body gets so HOT on the chugger. Good simple review!
Short Circuited Brewers - Lol. I told her after I bought it, she just told me to step up my brewing game. Nothing less than the best!! I added the whirlpool kit. It’s going to take me a couple sessions to get it dialed in. I will take a pic once it’s all setup. Should be getting everything this week!! 👍🏻
Cool review Bryan, I just ordered my own Blichmann Riptide due to your reviews, I purchased my pump through Austin Homebrew Supply due to me being in Texarkana, TX. I was wondering which connectors you used in on your first demo video of the Riptide? I will also post this comment to the other video for clarification.
The Blichmann pump head can be positioned anywhere in 360 degrees due to the tri-clamp, correct? The other two you have two positions to choose from, as I understand. I don't yet own any pumps and am trying to design my all-electric brew space for a home we are building. Thanks for these videos!
Thanks for the review! We currently use chugger pumps and the mkII pumps - but I'll have to look into that riptide. I've been thinking of grabbing a chugger max while we're upgrading our system, but it sounds like the riptide might be a more economic option.
I'm in France and i'v just contacted Blichman and their sellers in europe to see if i can get a couple, but i may have to wait a bit, i was about to buy some chuggers but i think the wait will be worth while thanks to your review.
I definitely think it would be worth the wait Ed! I really like mine! I'm looking to add ones more soon. It would definitely help on those live Brew days to make it quieter!! Cheers! 🍻
It's great to se the thought that's been put into the design, but i agree with another comment here that the bleed valve would have been better if a pipe could have ben attached.
I’ve used 2 chugger pumps on my setup (3 vessel The Electric Brewery setup but with Stout kettles) and hate them. They will not recirculate wort up to the boil kettle once the wort is hot. I’m brewing today and the wort is down to 170 degrees but the pumps still won’t recirculate it; so frustrating. My pumps are over 6 years old but even when newer they wouldn’t recirculate. Do you have any trouble doing this with the Blichmann? Will it recirculate boiling wort, and if not what does the temperature need to be for it to recirculate?
Would you consider doing a side by side comparison between the production Riptide and the Riptide Upgrade kit from Blichmann for the Chugger pump? Curious to see if the fill rate is comparable. Already figured the sound level would not change. But can you get the GPM of the riptide in the upgrade kit?
Good review. I agree the valve design isn't preferable but it works. The bleed is the hang up for me, it will be messy and quite hot. I have a ball valve with a barb and a hose directing the bleed overflow to a bucket to keep everything clean and non-sticky since I brew inside
I have had a thought about seeing if I can find tubing with the same OD as the holes of the purge valve and then run a couple houses down the side of the pump housing into a little small container.. might work.. experiment time! Cheers! Thanks for watching! -Brian
You could use it for that the only thing that I would caution you on is you need to remember that it is not a self-priming pump you have to flood the impeller housing with liquid before it will pump. Cheers! 👍🍻
I've have been brewing since I was 12 years old with my dad. Let us just say that was five plus decades ago. I have built, used then sold several configurations of brew rigs (sculptures - old school) with my current rigs, one single level half 3 keg keggle and one 3 pot individual stand single level 25 gal rig. I use march steel head pumps across the board. I was originally excited about a the new pump configuration with it internal valve and sanitary assembled head. But, after reviewing it myself I found the "two" features I love are the 9 ft cord and the tri-clover assembly. The do not like the purge valve. I also do not like the very slow internal valve. I have found of many years of brewing that a fast positive shut off ball valve is paramount to everything else! This is just my personal preference!!! Cheers!
JD W Thanks for the comments!! Your experience certainly exceeds mine! I.added a ball valve on mine so I can quickly shut it off as well.. I do like the built-in valve for mash recirculating though! Thanks for watching and your insights! 🍻
I agree. I've been home brewing since the mid 1990s. I definitely don't like the air bleed on the Riptide. Every time you pull it you get liquid squirting out. I put a 3 way valve on the output of my chugger pumps. I place a plastic tray underneath the T output. When I start my system I turn the valve to open the T and bleed the air out of the system. The liquid that drains out is captured in the tray. No mess. I also throttle my flow when mashing. I do that with a 1/4 turn valve at the top of the mash kettle. I can't reach the pump when I'm looking at the mash. I've never plugged a chugger pump. I take them apart once a year or so, just to check. I flush my system after every batch and again before I start a new batch. I've never had a problem with cleaning a chugger. About the only thing I don't like about Chugger pumps is how noisy they are.
Thanks for the review, really easy to follow. Will the Riptide make a decent whirlpool on a 50Gal batch? For the 11 Gal test didn't move the balls as it did for the 6 Gal test, I am wondering how it will behave for 50Gal. Thanks
Thanks for the video Brian, very much appreciated. I am a winemaker in search of a quality pump to pump my 50-gallon batches from one flex tank to another. I ruined a couple of pumps already due to some grape seeds getting pumped through and have since added an in-line filter to prevent ruining any more pumps. Would I need to add an inline filter to the Riptide, or would it pass seeds through without ruining the pump? Thanks again for your video, I subscribed and cannot wait to view your other material!
Thanks Michael! How large are the grape seeds? The riptide generally has no problem with hops running through it. Although they are probably not as hard as grape seeds. Ever thought about a grant style device to prevent the seeds from getting in the pump? Might be a solution for you. Thanks for subscribing!! Cheers Michael! 👍🍻 🍷🍷
nice video. Subscribed. One question though... i how do you avoid getting burned when you open that air bleed valve? Is it just because the hot wort/water dribbles out and doesn't have enough pressure to hit your finger?
Yeah Steve, you can pull it slightly and it won't spray everywhere. BTW stay tuned for a video on the just released upgrade kit that will turn most March or Chugger pumps into a riptide, by swapping out the impeller body and head. Thanks for the Sub!!! Cheers 👍🍻
Steve Reinahrt here is a link to what I am talking about. shop.greatfermentations.com/product/riptide-upgrade-kit-blichmann-engineering/blichmann-engineering-equipment?a=shrtct
I think it is a great silent pump. The clawhammer supply system I have has one and it works great. I think it's the best budget pump out there. Most of the time you can get it for under $100 with a stainless head. 👍🍻
Short Circuited Brewers - Maybe that’s my problem. There is ONLY one. So you’re saying there should be an o ring on the inside, and one near the outer edge?
Great review. One question - what is the actual impeller made of? Also the rare earth magnets are they covered or insulated from the liquid with something?
Bjørn Tore Åsmul I have not heard anything about that yet but I will check with my contact at blichmann and see if they plan on making a version for the UK. thanks for watching!
Short Circuited Brewers Great, thanks! It's actually for the Norwegian market, but UK will do :-) Same voltage, just a different plug (UK = non-EU plug).
Having had the pump for half a year now, are you still enjoying the Riptide? Would you recommend it? Did you get the pump with the improved impeller? I understand that some models were sold that had a older impeller design and some were having problems with cavitation. I’m also wondering what you think about how it functions with low flow rates? Can you slow the flow enough for continuous sparging, or a slow vorlauf? There was a review on MoreBeer that complained that the pump is only good for high flow rates. What is your experience? I am going to buy my first pump, and I want to know that I will love the Riptide!
JosephandElissa Flores I still really like the pump haven't had any cavitation issues I'm not a hundred percent sure that I have the newest impeller I think there was a black one and a brown one. But haven't had any issues with cavitation at all. I really like how quiet it is in the ability to take it apart and clean it I need to buy another one as a matter of fact
JosephandElissa Flores no issues with flow rates either the proportional valve works very well to control either sparging or running through a counterflow chiller
I really appreciate the fast feedback! I want a pump, and this one is in the lead. My wife is going to buy me a pump for my birthday and I think I’ll tell her to pick this one up!
It is not submersible, but it is water resistant and the motor is sealed. I would say my biggest concern would be the lower housing where the switch is. it is not sealed in that area. Hope that helps. Cheers! -Brian
There is no issue with the fan on the back the rear of the motor is sealed the only issue is with the wiring in the base if you have an Instagram account go check me out on Instagram under shortcircuitedbrewer I just posted some photos of the shield off on the back of the pump, and showing the base. Hope that help. Cheers!
I with JC on this one.... When I first saw that purge valve, I said "great, HOT wort everywhere" Nice quiet pump though. I would just add a small valve for purging air/fluid into a small bucket. Im surprised that Blichmann would use that type of valve.
Turkey Dip A bleeder style valve like what you might find on a vehicle brake system would have been nice. I have been thinking of some mods to eliviate the possibility of getting scorched. Side note: I have used it with hot wort and never have had an issue, as long as you are not yanking it like a ripcord.. Lol Thanks for watching and commenting...🍻
I totally agree. When I first saw that purge valve, I said "great, HOT wort everywhere" Nice quiet pump though. I would just add a small valve for purging air.
FYI - PBW can be bad for teflon pans, not the sort of teflon that is used in these pumps or in our breweries. If it was, the ball lock seats and teflon tape that many brewers use would disintegrate too. So do not be concerned with using PBW on the sort of teflon we use in our breweries (ball locks, teflon tape, pumps, etc). The PBW manufacturer (Five Star) has also confirming this if you Google around a bit... There was a BrewStrong show on cleaning some years back where Five Star was the guest and re-confirmed that PBW is fine to use on these sort of pumps. Cheers!
I think it may be the abrasive nature of the PBW if it is not fully dissolved? What would be the case with my March pump? My Chugger has only run water all of its "life". Good info Kal thanks for commenting! You helped me design and build my system with your website! Much respect! -Brian
Hi Brian - not sure what it could be! Maybe asking March directly would be the best approach. They're usually pretty good at responding. Glad to hear you found my website helpful! Cheers!
If you would like to absolve yourself of any appearance of impropriety you could pass that gifted pump on to a viewer. I'll happily volunteer to help you with that!
the sound is perceived by the human ears as a dependent on frequency, thus a sound of 2 kHz @ 60dB is perceived as much louder than 500 Hz @ 20dB so without actually listening to the sound the dB number is of little value
"Manufactered Edge" aka CHUGGER, is slandering this new Riptide and I just wanted to point out their completely biased and irresponsible review video, their address is the same as Chugger: ruclips.net/video/t-YQU0ROrGU/видео.html
Yeah it's pretty sad that instead of trying to make home brewing better they want to focus on trying to tear others down...I'll never buy another one of there products ever...not because I am a Blichmann "fan boy" but because of there ethics and motives.
Naa, blichmann had an opportunity to make a great pump, but they blew it. I can´t replace my march pumps with that one in its current form. I have pump switches already and I don´t have to bend down on my knees to use the pump. I have all the full port 1/2" valves placed were I can reach them without having to be on my knees and I have a way to bleed the system for trapped air. So all the features of the blichmann pump is mute to me. And on top of that it don´t come with center inlet. It could have been a great pump, but no
It sounds like you have put a lot of thought in the design of your system! Are there any photos online that I could see? I'm always interested in checking out system designs! I checked out your channel but did not see any complete system overview. Thanks for watching and commenting! Cheers!
OK I just watched the most recent Brew Day video are you just opening the valves on the kettles and allowing the water to come up the hoses before you connect them to the various chillers Etc? NICE system BTW!!
Short Circuited Brewers Thank you. I've tig welded tri clamp fittings and manufacter shelves and mounting plates myself. Yes, I open valves and the system bleed itself from air before I start pumping. Works like a charm. It seems that the blichmann is to tall to fit my pump shelf anyway
Short Circuited Brewers thank you kindly. I just recently got into the brew making business and it’s daunting. My first batch was alright with an American pale ale starter kit. But my second batch ever was so bad I had to throw away my catalyst fermenter 😢.it was a chocolate milk stout. I have a Brewtech kettle and will reorder the catalyst but I still need a good chilling option and I think craftabrew came out with a good one. Hopefully if I get the pump I can use it for both transfer and whirlpool?
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Blichmann continues to innovate on behalf of the little guy. Thanks for a thorough and comprehensive review, SCB. I'm adding the Rip Tide pump to my Fathers Day wish list. I recently purchased the Quick Carb and used to successfully carbonate an Irish Red. It worked very well - thanks, Blichmann!
Thanks for the comment Dennis as I stated in my blichmann quick carb review I am not a blichmann fanboy but I am a big fan of things that work!! Cheers! -Brian
Completely understand, and I echo the sentiment. It's just that thus far in my experience, Blichmann products seems to work.
Agree 100%
Thank you for taking the time to do a valuable comparison. Nicely done.
Nice review, we have a SS chugger currently. Blichmann is always leading the pack when it comes to homebrew innovation. Cheers!
Nice! I I think it was time for me to upgrade anyway I went the cheapest route I could possibly find when I built my system, but I definitely need to incorporate cleaning my pumps in my normal Brewing process more than what I currently do and the Riptide will help me put that in place! Cheers! -Brian
Another great review. After seeing this, I decided to take the plunge. It's coming today! Thanks for the info.
Great video. Thanks for taking the time to do the comparison. Just ordered one to replace my Chugger pump.
Thanks! You'll enjoy it! Cheers!
new to your channel here, loving the content. the honesty comes through and having someone else take the time to put experience into video is really appreciated.
Thank you! I really enjoy doing what I do because of people like you! I really appreciate the feedback!
Nice review Brian, appreciate you taking the time to make this video!
Thank you for the comment! I really enjoy making the videos! Cheers!
Great review mate.
The intro is looking really good, not to long.
Thanks Leo!! I tried to make it short :-)
Bear in mind that the Blichman pump bolts the impeller housing to the motor body via a very thin aluminium plate on the motor body.
It is very easy to strip the threads on this plate and blichman will not sell you a replacement.
This has meant that I will have to throw away and entire $350 pump (I am in the UK) as Blichman refuse to provide spare parts to anyone in my situation. I cannot even buy a new motor as a replacent as they are not available in the 230v required in the UK.
To say that I am less than impressed with Blichman in this is an understatement. I would advise anyone to steer well clear, esp so if you're not in the USA.
Nice review! I'm a homebrew from Brasil and i really like a lot your channel. Just bought a new Rip Tide. As soon as possible i give a feed back!
Thanks for the feedback! Hope you enjoy your Riptide! I certainly enjoy mine! Cheers! 🍻
Hi Brian, long time no talk. I have purchased 2 riptide conversions for my march 815's, purely for ease of cleaning and can confirm the riptide conversion is around 1LPM faster than the 815. Very impressed with that.
Haydn Williams yeah I have one myself! Love the conversion kits! 👍🍻
Any video update with the conversation kit?
Very nice comparison video. Appreciate it Brian.
Thank you very much I appreciate it, enjoyed doing it! Glad I could provide everybody with the information. Cheers!
Great video. Seems very honest and informative. I’ve run Chugger pumps for 10 years and only had one failure for over temp. They can be tricky to prime under certain circumstances. If the time comes to replace them I’ll try the Blichman. Thanks for the info!
Definitely!! I love mine I've added a second one to my system since this video. 👍🍻
`Thanks Brian, great video.
I was about to purchase a chugger pump, so this video came along just in time for me!
regards
Dom
AWESOME!! I love mine. If you buy from one of my vendors below with the link.. I REALLY appreciate it! Thanks for the feedback!! Cheers! -Brian
Hello Brian. The best combination I have tested is the Chugger motor with the Blichmann SS pump which impeller is more effective than the others. I have had an awful experience with the Blichmann motor. The magnetic couple is very weak and about the third brew day it started to scream and blocked. I tried to reassemble several times but it was a lost cause...
Wow that's interesting.. I've not had any trouble with mine. 👍🍻
Thank you Guys for a Wonderful Learning experience, I learnt a lot and will be thinking of moving to Electronic brewing.
Great to hear!
Most excellent review. Short and too the point. Thank you!!
That's my goal! Thanks for taking the time to comment! Cheers John! 🍻👍
Regarding the Blichmann "dial valve" (I suspect it behaves something like a gate valve), I consider that a great benefit - add a second valve, such as a ball valve or butterfly valve, downriver.
It is a great pump. Extremely variable flow adjustment with the valve. Easy to do a thorough cleaning on and as a, bonus, super quiet! 👍🍻
I have had problems with a Chugger Pump TCPSS-CI but i assume it is problem of all the pumps that have magnetic coupling between the electric motor and the pump. The magnetic coupling does not work when the fluid is at 100C (212F), you need to wait until it reached 95C (203F) or below before the rotor starts to move. Any solutions to that, maybe there is a small pump (1/4 inch inlet/outlet) with mechanic coupling instead of magnetic? please.
I'm not aware of a mechanical pump like that. The riptide does not have this problem though.
I really like the rip tide. My chugger works well, but as you mentioned adding the valves and whatnot add up. Also I have had the impeller stop working while recirculating near boiling wort...also the motor body gets so HOT on the chugger. Good simple review!
Thanks Big Dawg!! Other reviews on the channel as well. Appreciate the comment! 👍🍻
my Blichmann Breweasy came with the Riptide...very excited to get brewing
Dan Matias dang son!! You are gearing up!
Short Circuited Brewers- figured you only live once. Just don’t tell the wife shhhhh
Dan Matias lips... Sealed.. 👍🍻
Short Circuited Brewers - Lol. I told her after I bought it, she just told me to step up my brewing game. Nothing less than the best!! I added the whirlpool kit. It’s going to take me a couple sessions to get it dialed in. I will take a pic once it’s all setup. Should be getting everything this week!! 👍🏻
Dan Matias awesome! Send me some photos! Brian@shortcircuitedbrewers.com
Excellent review my friend! I can see one (or two) of these in my future. Cheers 🍻
Thanks!! it is a GREAT Pump.. I will be purchasing another for sure! Cheers!
Geez you've almost convinced me to upgrade my chuggers! Cheers great video and affable host.
I need to get some money together and get another one. Thanks for watching, and the comments! Cheers! 🍻
Cool review Bryan, I just ordered my own Blichmann Riptide due to your reviews, I purchased my pump through Austin Homebrew Supply due to me being in Texarkana, TX. I was wondering which connectors you used in on your first demo video of the Riptide? I will also post this comment to the other video for clarification.
Here it is: www.austinhomebrew.com/Blichmann-QuickConnector-12-Straight-Barb_p_288.html Thanks for watching!!
The Blichmann pump head can be positioned anywhere in 360 degrees due to the tri-clamp, correct? The other two you have two positions to choose from, as I understand. I don't yet own any pumps and am trying to design my all-electric brew space for a home we are building. Thanks for these videos!
Yes it can be positioned however you chose.
Pretty awesome thinking I going add this pump for my future setup
Don't think you will be disappointed David. Cheers! -Brian
Thanks for the review! We currently use chugger pumps and the mkII pumps - but I'll have to look into that riptide. I've been thinking of grabbing a chugger max while we're upgrading our system, but it sounds like the riptide might be a more economic option.
You are welcome!! I really like mine.. Super quiet and very strong flow.. Thanks for commenting! Cheers!🍻
I heard every 6 dB is a doubling (or halfing) in volume, if thats true then it's a lot quieter
It is a lot quieter I can tell you that! 👍🍻
So how easy is it to prime and will the Riptide handle 175 degree water for all grain brewing
It is very easy to prime Doug, and the riptide will handle boiling water no problem.
great review and what looks like a really great pump,
It's a great pump! I intend to adds a second one for sure! Thanks for the comment Ed! Cheers! 🍻
I'm in France and i'v just contacted Blichman and their sellers in europe to see if i can get a couple, but i may have to wait a bit, i was about to buy some chuggers but i think the wait will be worth while thanks to your review.
I definitely think it would be worth the wait Ed! I really like mine! I'm looking to add ones more soon. It would definitely help on those live Brew days to make it quieter!! Cheers! 🍻
It's great to se the thought that's been put into the design, but i agree with another comment here that the bleed valve would have been better if a pipe could have ben attached.
Great video! Thanks!
I’ve used 2 chugger pumps on my setup (3 vessel The Electric Brewery setup but with Stout kettles) and hate them. They will not recirculate wort up to the boil kettle once the wort is hot. I’m brewing today and the wort is down to 170 degrees but the pumps still won’t recirculate it; so frustrating. My pumps are over 6 years old but even when newer they wouldn’t recirculate. Do you have any trouble doing this with the Blichmann? Will it recirculate boiling wort, and if not what does the temperature need to be for it to recirculate?
I have no problem with boiling wort. I'll flip off the element and circulate immediately. They are good pumps. 👍🍻
Would you consider doing a side by side comparison between the production Riptide and the Riptide Upgrade kit from Blichmann for the Chugger pump? Curious to see if the fill rate is comparable. Already figured the sound level would not change. But can you get the GPM of the riptide in the upgrade kit?
I can see about doing that sure. Thanks for the idea! 👍🍻
Just found the video you did of the up-grade head for the march/chugger pumps. Still curious about the fill rate comparison.
I figured.. Would still be a good comparison video. 👍🍻
Good review. I agree the valve design isn't preferable but it works. The bleed is the hang up for me, it will be messy and quite hot. I have a ball valve with a barb and a hose directing the bleed overflow to a bucket to keep everything clean and non-sticky since I brew inside
I have had a thought about seeing if I can find tubing with the same OD as the holes of the purge valve and then run a couple houses down the side of the pump housing into a little small container.. might work.. experiment time! Cheers! Thanks for watching! -Brian
Will riptide help me to transfer from a fermenting vessel from Speidel to a bottling bucket? i am talking about after fermentation.
You could use it for that the only thing that I would caution you on is you need to remember that it is not a self-priming pump you have to flood the impeller housing with liquid before it will pump. Cheers! 👍🍻
Short Circuited Brewers I didn't know there were self priming pumps. I have never used pumps lol
Short Circuited Brewers I am worry about splashing the beer in the bucket
Decks 23 haha gotcha. The self priming pumps are usually a diaphram pump. Google "wine transfer pump". You'll find out what they are. Cheers! 👍🍻
Decks 23 you definitely don't want that. Just go slow and it should be fine.
I've have been brewing since I was 12 years old with my dad. Let us just say that was five plus decades ago. I have built, used then sold several configurations of brew rigs (sculptures - old school) with my current rigs, one single level half 3 keg keggle and one 3 pot individual stand single level 25 gal rig. I use march steel head pumps across the board. I was originally excited about a the new pump configuration with it internal valve and sanitary assembled head. But, after reviewing it myself I found the "two" features I love are the 9 ft cord and the tri-clover assembly. The do not like the purge valve. I also do not like the very slow internal valve. I have found of many years of brewing that a fast positive shut off ball valve is paramount to everything else! This is just my personal preference!!! Cheers!
JD W Thanks for the comments!! Your experience certainly exceeds mine! I.added a ball valve on mine so I can quickly shut it off as well.. I do like the built-in valve for mash recirculating though! Thanks for watching and your insights! 🍻
I agree. I've been home brewing since the mid 1990s.
I definitely don't like the air bleed on the Riptide. Every time you pull it you get liquid squirting out. I put a 3 way valve on the output of my chugger pumps. I place a plastic tray underneath the T output. When I start my system I turn the valve to open the T and bleed the air out of the system. The liquid that drains out is captured in the tray. No mess.
I also throttle my flow when mashing. I do that with a 1/4 turn valve at the top of the mash kettle. I can't reach the pump when I'm looking at the mash.
I've never plugged a chugger pump. I take them apart once a year or so, just to check. I flush my system after every batch and again before I start a new batch. I've never had a problem with cleaning a chugger.
About the only thing I don't like about Chugger pumps is how noisy they are.
Love your review! Thank you!
Thank you John!! Cheers!
Thanks for the review, really easy to follow. Will the Riptide make a decent whirlpool on a 50Gal batch? For the 11 Gal test didn't move the balls as it did for the 6 Gal test, I am wondering how it will behave for 50Gal. Thanks
It will but it would be a slow whirlpool. 👍🍻
Thanks for the video Brian, very much appreciated. I am a winemaker in search of a quality pump to pump my 50-gallon batches from one flex tank to another. I ruined a couple of pumps already due to some grape seeds getting pumped through and have since added an in-line filter to prevent ruining any more pumps. Would I need to add an inline filter to the Riptide, or would it pass seeds through without ruining the pump? Thanks again for your video, I subscribed and cannot wait to view your other material!
Thanks Michael! How large are the grape seeds? The riptide generally has no problem with hops running through it. Although they are probably not as hard as grape seeds. Ever thought about a grant style device to prevent the seeds from getting in the pump? Might be a solution for you. Thanks for subscribing!! Cheers Michael! 👍🍻 🍷🍷
Great video. thanks
nice video. Subscribed. One question though... i how do you avoid getting burned when you open that air bleed valve? Is it just because the hot wort/water dribbles out and doesn't have enough pressure to hit your finger?
Yeah Steve, you can pull it slightly and it won't spray everywhere. BTW stay tuned for a video on the just released upgrade kit that will turn most March or Chugger pumps into a riptide, by swapping out the impeller body and head. Thanks for the Sub!!! Cheers 👍🍻
Steve Reinahrt here is a link to what I am talking about. shop.greatfermentations.com/product/riptide-upgrade-kit-blichmann-engineering/blichmann-engineering-equipment?a=shrtct
what do you think of the mark2?
I think it is a great silent pump. The clawhammer supply system I have has one and it works great. I think it's the best budget pump out there. Most of the time you can get it for under $100 with a stainless head. 👍🍻
Just got the Blichmann pump. Do you have problems with it leaking, or did I get a faulty pump? The little red O ring doesn’t seem to fit right.
No problems? Which one? large one?
Short Circuited Brewers - Maybe that’s my problem. There is ONLY one. So you’re saying there should be an o ring on the inside, and one near the outer edge?
Great review. One question - what is the actual impeller made of? Also the rare earth magnets are they covered or insulated from the liquid with something?
I believe the impeller is food grade plastic and magnets are not insulated from the wort. Thanks!
Did the fan/fins keep the pump cooler?
Than the other 2? I think so. I don't have any data to back it up.. I'll have run a test to be sure.
nice comparison brian. having the on off switch would really make things easier and not just unpugging the pump every time. cheers
Yeah I think it is a nice feature for those without a control panel. Cheers!
Great review!
Do you know if these will be available in Europe and as a 220V version?
Bjørn Tore Åsmul I have not heard anything about that yet but I will check with my contact at blichmann and see if they plan on making a version for the UK. thanks for watching!
Short Circuited Brewers
Great, thanks!
It's actually for the Norwegian market, but UK will do :-) Same voltage, just a different plug (UK = non-EU plug).
Lol oops. I will let you know
Which model March pump was used? 809 or 815?
It is the 809
should have put the 815 in , its 50% faster than the 809
I would agree with that I was just using what I had on hand at the time from my own Brewery
looks promising though the riptide, all depends on price and availability here in the UK
Several people have asked whether it's going to be available or not I don't know the answer to that at this point. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Having had the pump for half a year now, are you still enjoying the Riptide? Would you recommend it? Did you get the pump with the improved impeller? I understand that some models were sold that had a older impeller design and some were having problems with cavitation. I’m also wondering what you think about how it functions with low flow rates? Can you slow the flow enough for continuous sparging, or a slow vorlauf? There was a review on MoreBeer that complained that the pump is only good for high flow rates. What is your experience? I am going to buy my first pump, and I want to know that I will love the Riptide!
JosephandElissa Flores I still really like the pump haven't had any cavitation issues I'm not a hundred percent sure that I have the newest impeller I think there was a black one and a brown one. But haven't had any issues with cavitation at all. I really like how quiet it is in the ability to take it apart and clean it I need to buy another one as a matter of fact
JosephandElissa Flores no issues with flow rates either the proportional valve works very well to control either sparging or running through a counterflow chiller
I really appreciate the fast feedback! I want a pump, and this one is in the lead. My wife is going to buy me a pump for my birthday and I think I’ll tell her to pick this one up!
JosephandElissa Flores sure! Forgot to mention how quiet it is too.. Amazingly quiet!
Is the riptide wash down rated?
It is not submersible, but it is water resistant and the motor is sealed. I would say my biggest concern would be the lower housing where the switch is. it is not sealed in that area. Hope that helps. Cheers! -Brian
Thanks Brian. There's no issue with the cooling fan on the back?
There is no issue with the fan on the back the rear of the motor is sealed the only issue is with the wiring in the base if you have an Instagram account go check me out on Instagram under shortcircuitedbrewer I just posted some photos of the shield off on the back of the pump, and showing the base. Hope that help. Cheers!
Perfect video Brian!
For me, the noise was really important, Blichmann win easy! cheers
I will tell you Christian that feature and the ability to take it apart easily and clean it are what sold me the most! Cheers!
I with JC on this one.... When I first saw that purge valve, I said "great, HOT wort everywhere" Nice quiet pump though. I would just add a small valve for purging air/fluid into a small bucket. Im surprised that Blichmann would use that type of valve.
Turkey Dip A bleeder style valve like what you might find on a vehicle brake system would have been nice. I have been thinking of some mods to eliviate the possibility of getting scorched. Side note: I have used it with hot wort and never have had an issue, as long as you are not yanking it like a ripcord.. Lol
Thanks for watching and commenting...🍻
I guess im gonna burn with hot wort if I use that release valve :/
I totally agree. When I first saw that purge valve, I said "great, HOT wort everywhere" Nice quiet pump though. I would just add a small valve for purging air.
FYI - PBW can be bad for teflon pans, not the sort of teflon that is used in these pumps or in our breweries. If it was, the ball lock seats and teflon tape that many brewers use would disintegrate too. So do not be concerned with using PBW on the sort of teflon we use in our breweries (ball locks, teflon tape, pumps, etc). The PBW manufacturer (Five Star) has also confirming this if you Google around a bit... There was a BrewStrong show on cleaning some years back where Five Star was the guest and re-confirmed that PBW is fine to use on these sort of pumps. Cheers!
I think it may be the abrasive nature of the PBW if it is not fully dissolved? What would be the case with my March pump? My Chugger has only run water all of its "life". Good info Kal thanks for commenting! You helped me design and build my system with your website! Much respect! -Brian
Hi Brian - not sure what it could be! Maybe asking March directly would be the best approach. They're usually pretty good at responding. Glad to hear you found my website helpful! Cheers!
Absolutely! You're the Godfather of all this madness! Thanks again!
If you would like to absolve yourself of any appearance of impropriety you could pass that gifted pump on to a viewer. I'll happily volunteer to help you with that!
I will take that under advisement.. lol. Thanks for watching!
Remember that decibels are on a logarithmic scale so 70 to 90 would be perceived as four times louder.
Wouldn't a 20dB delta be a factor of 10x difference in sound pressure and 100x difference in sound power?
the sound is perceived by the human ears as a dependent on frequency, thus a sound of 2 kHz @ 60dB is perceived as much louder than 500 Hz @ 20dB so without actually listening to the sound the dB number is of little value
20dB difference is a factor of 100. ;)
Forgot to add that 3dB is a factor of 2, so it's logarithmic.
"Manufactered Edge" aka CHUGGER, is slandering this new Riptide and I just wanted to point out their completely biased and irresponsible review video, their address is the same as Chugger:
ruclips.net/video/t-YQU0ROrGU/видео.html
Yeah it's pretty sad that instead of trying to make home brewing better they want to focus on trying to tear others down...I'll never buy another one of there products ever...not because I am a Blichmann "fan boy" but because of there ethics and motives.
The RIPTIDE pump has some major flaws ...the valves are extremely dangerous...
Explain?
this pump would never pass any UL or ETL electrical safety standards
+Michael Caringi what pump do you use?
Ampco
Michael Caringi wow those look like some serious pumps! Do you have any photos of your system online anywhere? I'd like to check it out!
Naa, blichmann had an opportunity to make a great pump, but they blew it. I can´t replace my march pumps with that one in its current form. I have pump switches already and I don´t have to bend down on my knees to use the pump. I have all the full port 1/2" valves placed were I can reach them without having to be on my knees and I have a way to bleed the system for trapped air. So all the features of the blichmann pump is mute to me. And on top of that it don´t come with center inlet. It could have been a great pump, but no
It sounds like you have put a lot of thought in the design of your system! Are there any photos online that I could see? I'm always interested in checking out system designs! I checked out your channel but did not see any complete system overview. Thanks for watching and commenting! Cheers!
Yes, I have a complete system overview in every brew day video. Have you seen one yet?
OK I just watched the most recent Brew Day video are you just opening the valves on the kettles and allowing the water to come up the hoses before you connect them to the various chillers Etc? NICE system BTW!!
Short Circuited Brewers Thank you. I've tig welded tri clamp fittings and manufacter shelves and mounting plates myself. Yes, I open valves and the system bleed itself from air before I start pumping. Works like a charm. It seems that the blichmann is to tall to fit my pump shelf anyway
Cool nice work! Glad you commented so I could check it out. So many channels out there! Subbed, looking forward to see more videos! Cheers!
This is blatantly unfair. You ran the first two pumps dry. Of course they were louder. You are being disingenuous.
Michael Odland lol right.. not hardly..
What is the purpose of getting The air out and when do you activate the pin for the release?
The impeller pump cavity needs to be full of water to start pumping. If not it will cavitate and not pump. 👍🍻
Short Circuited Brewers thank you kindly. I just recently got into the brew making business and it’s daunting. My first batch was alright with an American pale ale starter kit. But my second batch ever was so bad I had to throw away my catalyst fermenter 😢.it was a chocolate milk stout. I have a Brewtech kettle and will reorder the catalyst but I still need a good chilling option and I think craftabrew came out with a good one. Hopefully if I get the pump I can use it for both transfer and whirlpool?
@@symbiote3220 sure you can it is a great pump!