Hydrometer Converter

A hydrometer is a tool used to measure the specific gravity (SG) of a liquid. For wine and beer makers, it helps determine the sugar content of a liquid, which can be used to estimate alcohol levels and track fermentation progress.

1. Fill your testing jar with a sample of your liquid (e.g., must or wort).
2. Place the hydrometer gently into the liquid and let it float freely.
3. Read the specific gravity at the point where the liquid surface touches the hydrometer scale.
4. Record the SG reading to track fermentation progress over time.

Use the specific gravity (SG) to estimate the potential alcohol content. The formula is:

Potential Alcohol (%) = (OG - FG) × 131.25
        

Where:

• OG: Original Gravity (before fermentation)
• FG: Final Gravity (after fermentation)

This formula provides an estimate of the alcohol content based on the sugar consumed during fermentation.

Original Gravity (OG):

Final Gravity (FG):

Calculate

• Ensure the hydrometer and testing jar are clean before use.
• Take the reading at eye level to avoid parallax errors.
• Adjust the reading for temperature if the liquid is not at the hydrometer's calibration temperature (usually 20°C).
• Remove bubbles from the liquid surface for an accurate reading.

Learn more about hydrometer usage:

• Brewer's Friend
• WineMakingTalk Forum
• WikiHow: Use a Hydrometer