Measuring Sugar With a Hydrometer

Measuring Sugar With a Hydrometer

There are various methods available to determine the specific gravity of any liquid; one of the most widely utilized by wineries and breweries is hydrometering. A hydrometer is a simple device read by submersion into solution under test; once used it can provide instantaneous results. Hydrometers have wide reading ranges and easy operation compared with more precise instruments; however they may become inaccurate due to temperature variations or surface contamination on meniscus surface.

Hydrometers can be used to accurately measure both cold syrup (usually at 60 degrees Fahrenheit) and hot syrup (typically 211 degrees Fahrenheit), though most home brewing hydrometers are designed specifically for measuring pure sucrose and High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), though some winemaking hydrometers also come equipped with cold and hot test lines.

When taking readings, simply fill a clear trial jar with the liquid being tested, place your hydrometer inside it, rotate it to display the measurement (which represents its specific gravity or SG value), and rotate again to view results. Always ensure your hydrometer has been thoroughly cleaned prior to each use!

If you are uncertain as to whether fermentation has finished completely, taking a hydrometer reading on three consecutive days and seeing if the reading stays the same is one way of testing whether your ferment is complete.