Expert: John Snyder - 8/30/2007

Question
I started a West Coast Pale Ale Mr Beer kit last night, I took a chance on the yeast that was with the kit.  It looks as if the yeast is not working.  Is it ok to add more yeast and how much can I add?

Answer
fermentation has a lag phase,of up to 24 hrs,before it takes off.Was your dry yeast Re-hydrated first,before you you used it?If not,that could be the cause of the problem.

What was your wort temperature,in comparison,to your yeast temperature,if the yeast was hydrated?A big temp difference would cause a lot longer lag phase,before the fermentation became active.Try warming your fermentor by 5 degrees F.Ale yeast tends to go dormant below 60 degrees F.

If you didn't properly prepare your yeast,pitch a new yeast.

Proper yeast prep,means re-hydration,a starter,good aeration

If still unsure,list for me the prep you did,and what your wort temp was.I will be glad to give further assistance

                        John