Frequently Asked Questions | Mr. Beer

Accounts & Orders
Brewing Basics
Sanitization
Brewing & Fermentation
Bottling & Conditioning
Cider & Root Beer
Advanced Brewing Techniques

Accounts & Orders

+ How do I log into my account?
Choose the "My Account" button in the upper right corner of our website. Please fill out your account information using the e-mail registered to your account. Click "login" when you are finished.
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I can't access the checkout?
+ How do I apply my coupon code?
On the Shopping Cart page, enter the coupon code in the "Discount Codes" box located in the lower-left corner.
+ What is your return policy?
Before deciding to return an item, please contact a customer service representative to discuss other possible resolutions to your situation. If you do decide to return an item, Mr. Beer will issue a refund for the purchase price less a 20% restocking fee. Mr. Beer will not refund the original shipping charges or the return shipping costs. Products must be returned in sell-able condition. To ensure this, it may be necessary to repackage the order at your cost. Damaged, defective or missing items: If you receive an item that is damaged or defective please retain the box and packaging material your order came in and notify Mr. Beer within five (5) days of receiving your order. We will make every reasonable effort to resolve the situation to your satisfaction. In most cases, a replacement item will be sent out immediately. Return exceptions: Mr. Beer will not accept the return of any items after thirty (30) days and does not refund any shipping charges incurred on the initial order or for the return of an item. Product warranties: Mr. Beer guarantees all products to be free from defects in materials and workmanship at the time of purchase. If you find any product to be defective please contact us and we will work with you to resolve the issue. In order to protect the integrity of Mr.Beer products and ensure our customers receive authentic, fresh, and quality products, warranties are void on any items purchased through an unauthorized source (e.g. eBay.com, Craigslist.com, flea market, garage sales, etc.)
+ Will I be charged sales tax?
We charge sales tax on orders originating in Arizona or Wisconsin. Orders from other locations are not subject to sales tax.
+ Can I change or cancel my order?
You may change or cancel your order anytime prior to processing. In order to do so, you will need to contact one of our friendly customer service agents. Give us a call (toll-free) at 800-852-4263, or contact us. We will do everything we can to accommodate your request, but keep in mind that we process orders as quickly as possible to ensure timely delivery.
+ When will my order arrive?
To check your order status, login in to your account and view your current orders. If you checked out as a guest or have trouble logging in, contact us for assistance. For more details, see our shipping info.
+ How do I track my order?
Login in to your account and view your current orders to find tracking information. If you placed your order as a "Guest Shopper" or are having trouble logging in, contact us for assistance.
+ Does the shipping box say "Mr. Beer" on it?
All orders ship in a plain brown box without logos. The shipping label indicates "Coopers DIY, LLC" as the return address.
+ Can I purchase kits and mixes locally?
Our products are primarily available through our website. For local availability, please contact customer service for assistance.

Brewing Basics

+ What is HME?
HME stands for Hopped Malt Extract, a pre-hopped malt extract used in brewing to simplify the process.
+ What is LME?
LME stands for Liquid Malt Extract, a syrupy form of malted barley extract used in brewing.
+ What is DME?
DME stands for Dry Malt Extract, a powdered form of malted barley extract used in brewing.
+ What is the difference between ale yeast and lager yeast?
Ale yeast ferments at warmer temperatures (60–75°F), producing fruity and complex flavors, while lager yeast ferments at cooler temperatures (45–55°F), resulting in clean and crisp flavors.
+ What does ABV mean?
ABV stands for Alcohol by Volume, indicating the percentage of alcohol in a beverage.
+ What does IBU mean?
IBU stands for International Bitterness Units, measuring the bitterness of beer contributed by hops.
+ What does SRM mean?
SRM stands for Standard Reference Method, measuring the color intensity of beer.
+ What is dry hopping?
Dry hopping involves adding hops to fermenting beer to enhance aroma without increasing bitterness.
+ What is priming?
Priming is adding fermentable sugar to the beer before bottling to naturally carbonate the beer.
+ What is conditioning?
Conditioning refers to the maturation phase after fermentation, allowing flavors to develop and stabilize.

Sanitization

+ Why is sanitization important in brewing?
Sanitization is one of the most important steps in brewing. Without it, unwanted bacteria or wild yeast can take over, leading to off-flavors, spoiled beer, or even a completely undrinkable batch. To ensure a great-tasting brew, always sanitize all equipment that touches your beer—including your fermenter, bottles, and tools—before every step of the process.
+ What’s the difference between cleaning and sanitizing?
Cleaning removes visible dirt, while sanitizing kills microorganisms that can spoil beer.
+ How do I sanitize my fermenter?
Use a no-rinse sanitizer like Star San, and let the solution sit on the fermenter’s surface for at least 1–2 minutes before draining.
+ Can I use household bleach instead of sanitizer?
Yes, but it must be rinsed thoroughly, and the odor may linger. A brewing-specific sanitizer is better.
+ How do I sanitize hard-to-reach tools like spigots and tubing?
Run a sanitizer solution through them using gravity or a pump to ensure thorough coverage.
+ Do I need to sanitize my bottles before filling them?
Yes, always sanitize bottles, caps, and anything that comes into contact with the beer.
+ Can I reuse sanitized equipment later?
Only if it remains untouched in a clean, sanitized environment. Otherwise, re-sanitize before use.
+ How long does a no-rinse sanitizer solution last?
Most solutions last up to 24 hours if stored in a sealed container. Discard if it becomes cloudy.

Brewing & Fermentation

+ What temperature should I ferment my beer at?
Ales: 60–75°F. Lagers: 45–55°F. Yeast performance is temperature-dependent.
+ How do I know when fermentation is complete?
Check gravity readings with a hydrometer over 2–3 days. If it stabilizes, fermentation is complete.
+ Can I open my fermenter to check on the beer?
Avoid opening unless necessary; exposure can lead to contamination.
+ Why does my beer smell like sulfur?
Sulfur smells are normal in some fermentations, especially lagers. They usually dissipate with conditioning.
+ What is krausen?
Krausen is the foam layer that forms on top of fermenting beer, made up of yeast and proteins.
+ What causes off-flavors during fermentation?
High fermentation temperatures, contamination, or unhealthy yeast are common causes.
+ What does it mean to steep grains?
Steeping grains is a simple way to add fresh grain flavors to your beer without doing a full mash. You soak the grains in hot water (155-160°F) for about 30 minutes, which releases flavors, sugars, and proteins that enhance your brew.
+ Why do we add Booster to cool water, not hot water?
Booster dissolves much easier in cool or warm water. If added to boiling water, it can clump up and become hard to stir. Mixing it in cooler water first ensures a smooth, even blend.
+ Can I use tap water?
Yes, but be cautious. Many municipal water supplies contain chlorine, which can cause off-flavors in your beer. Hard water can also impact taste. For best results, we recommend using bottled spring or filtered water.
+ Can I use distilled water?
Distilled water lacks essential minerals that help yeast thrive. While our brewing extracts contain some minerals, it's best to use spring or filtered water when possible.
+ Does the water I add to my keg need to be cold?
Using cold water helps cool your wort faster, so you can pitch your yeast without delay. If the wort is too hot, it can kill the yeast or cause off-flavors. Cold water also helps prevent thermal shock to your fermenter.
+ Do I have to place my HME or LME in hot water before using?
You don’t have to, but it makes pouring much easier! Warming the extract helps it flow smoothly, so you get every drop into your brew.
+ What brewing instructions should I use?
We keep the most up-to-date instructions on our website. You can find them on each product page under the "Instructions" tab or visit our brewing instructions page for a complete guide.
+ At what wort temperature should I pitch my yeast?
In most cases, yeast should be pitched between 67-75°F for best results.
+ I ordered a recipe, but my box just has refill cans and ingredients. What gives?
That is your recipe! Our recipes use extract cans and LMEs as the base. Your instructions will guide you in combining them to create the final beer.
+ What is the difference between Standard, Deluxe, and Craft refills?
Standard: Comes with Boosters, which increase ABV without changing flavor.
Deluxe: Replaces Boosters with LME for improved body, flavor, and foam retention.
Craft: Uses a larger extract can, reaching ~5% ABV without additional fermentables.
+ Do I need to remove the hop sack before fermentation?
Unless your recipe specifies otherwise, you can leave it in or remove it after transferring your wort to the fermenter.
+ Why am I boiling hops? What does that do?
Boiling hops releases bitterness by converting humulone into iso-humulone, balancing the beer's sweetness.
+ Why do I need to hold a specific temperature when steeping grains?
If steeped too hot, grains can release tannins, leading to harsh, astringent flavors—similar to over-steeped tea.
+ I found an old can of brewing extract. Can I still use it?
The extract stays stable for a couple of years, but the yeast packet under the lid may be expired. You can replace the yeast, but older extract will be darker, less hoppy, and maltier.
+ My extract can is dented. Is it safe to use?
As long as the seal isn't compromised, a dented can is perfectly fine to brew.
+ I found brewing instructions on my extract can, but they seem incomplete. What gives?
The instructions on the can are a baseline for brewing with just the extract. For full recipe instructions, visit our brewing instructions page.
+ Can I use more than one gold yeast packet?
Yes! You can use up to 3 gold yeast packets for a stronger fermentation, better off-flavor cleanup, and a cleaner final product.
+ My recipe came with a different yeast than the one under the can’s lid. Do I use both?
No. The yeast under the can’s lid is a standard option. If your recipe includes a different yeast, use that one instead and discard the lid yeast.
+ How should I store my brewing ingredients if I’m not brewing right away?
Grains: Best stored in an airtight bag in the fridge if kept longer than 60 days.
Yeast: Store in the fridge and bring to room temp before using.
Hops: Store in an airtight container in the freezer.
+ What is Booster, and what does it do?
Booster is made from corn syrup solids and raises alcohol content without thinning body or changing flavor.
+ Why do some recipes have longer fermentation times?
Higher ABV recipes require longer fermentation to fully convert sugars into alcohol.
+ My beer stopped bubbling after a few days. Is it ruined?
Not at all! Visible bubbling (krausen) slows down after the most active fermentation period, but the yeast is still working.
+ Do I need an airlock?
No. The Mr. Beer fermenter has built-in vents to allow CO₂ to escape.
+ Can I add fruit, herbs, or spices to my beer?
Yes! Fruit should be sanitized and added after high krausen (about day 7). Herbs and spices can be added during the boil or later in fermentation for stronger flavor.
+ Are Mr. Beer products kosher?
Yes! Our products meet kosher and halal certification standards.

Bottling & Conditioning

+ How much No-Rinse Cleanser and water do I need to sanitize my bottles?
Use half a packet of No-Rinse Cleanser per gallon of water.
+ Can I use a bottle brush on my PET bottles?
Yes, but only use brushes with sponges instead of bristles. Bristles can scratch the plastic, creating spots for bacteria to hide.
+ Do my bottles need to be dry before filling?
No, as long as they have been sanitized and drained, you can fill them immediately.
+ Can I use a dishwasher to clean PET bottles?
No, PET bottles can melt in the dishwasher.
+ Do I have to use carb drops to carbonate my beer?
No, you can also prime with table sugar using our priming sugar chart.
+ My beer is still cloudy. Should I wait to bottle?
If fermentation is complete (no longer sweet), you can bottle. Most beers fully ferment in 14 days at 70°F.
+ How do I clear up floating sediment before bottling?
Use cold crashing—place the fermenter in the fridge for 24-48 hours before bottling. This helps sediment settle at the bottom.
+ Should I add sugar or beer to the bottle first?
Add the priming sugar or carb drops first, then fill the bottle with beer.
+ Can I condition my beer in a metal keg?
Yes, as long as you have a proper dispensing method.
+ How far from the top should I fill my bottles?
Leave about 1 inch of space from the top.
+ Are PET bottle caps reusable?
Yes, the black plastic caps are reusable.
+ Why shouldn’t I over-prime my bottles?
Too much sugar can cause excessive foaming, gushing, or even bottle explosions.
+ How long should my beer condition?
At least 3 weeks. Some beers benefit from longer conditioning.
+ Will my beer carbonate in the fridge?
No, the yeast goes dormant in cold temperatures.
+ Can I bottle my beer in glass?
Yes, as long as the bottles can be sealed properly.
+ How do I check carbonation if I bottle in glass?
Fill one plastic bottle as a test—if it firms up, your glass bottles are also carbonating.
+ My beer is still flat after 3 weeks. What happened?
Check your conditioning temperature—it should be around 72-75°F. Also, make sure your bottles are sealed properly.
+ How long can I keep my beer in the bottle?
It depends on the beer, but PET bottles should be consumed within 6 months.
+ Why do I need to chill my beer before drinking?
CO₂ fully absorbs into the beer at cold temperatures, improving carbonation.
+ My beer gushes when I open it. What’s wrong?
Gushing can be caused by over-priming, bottling before fermentation was complete, or an infection.
+ Can I cook with leftover beer or trub?
Yes! Many brewers use leftover beer for cooking or repurpose yeast trub in recipes.

Cider & Root Beer

+ Can I brew cider and beer in the same fermenter?
Yes, but thoroughly clean and sanitize between batches to prevent flavor carryover.
+ Can I use regular apple juice to make cider?
Yes, but ensure it doesn’t contain preservatives like potassium sorbate, which can inhibit fermentation.
+ How long does cider take to ferment?
Cider typically ferments in 1–3 weeks, depending on temperature and yeast type.
+ Is cider gluten-free?
Yes, as long as no barley or malted grains are used.
+ What flavors can I add to cider?
Fruits like cranberries, spices like cinnamon, or honey can enhance cider flavor.
+ Can I brew root beer with my cider kit?
No, use a dedicated root beer kit to avoid cross-contamination and flavor carryover.

Advanced Brewing Techniques

+ What is secondary fermentation, and when should I do it?
Secondary fermentation involves transferring your beer to another vessel after primary fermentation. It's used for clarifying beer, aging, or adding flavors like fruit or spices.
+ Can I experiment with adding fruit or spices to my beer?
Absolutely! Add fruit, spices, or other flavorings during secondary fermentation or directly to the fermenter after the primary phase.
+ What’s the best way to brew a high-alcohol beer?
Use extra fermentable sugars like malt extract, honey, or corn sugar. Ensure you pitch a healthy amount of yeast and monitor fermentation temperature closely.
+ How do I make a sour beer at home?
Use a souring method like kettle souring (adding lactic acid bacteria before boiling) or fermenting with wild yeast strains like Brettanomyces.
+ What is barrel aging, and how can I do it at home?
Barrel aging involves maturing beer in wooden barrels to impart flavors like oak, vanilla, or whiskey. For homebrewers, oak chips or cubes are a great alternative.
+ How can I carbonate my beer naturally?
Add priming sugar (dextrose or table sugar) to your beer before bottling. The remaining yeast will ferment the sugar, creating natural carbonation.
+ How do I improve the clarity of my beer?
Use fining agents like gelatin or Irish moss during brewing, and cold crash your beer (lowering the temperature before bottling) to encourage particles to settle.
+ What is a yeast starter, and why should I use one?
A yeast starter is a small batch of wort used to grow and activate yeast before pitching. It ensures healthy fermentation, especially for high-gravity beers.
+ How do I prevent oxidation during the brewing process?
Avoid splashing or agitating your beer after fermentation. Use closed transfers and minimize exposure to air when bottling or kegging.
+ Can I dry hop multiple times during fermentation?
Yes, multi-stage dry hopping enhances aroma complexity. Add hops in stages during primary fermentation and again after active fermentation has slowed.