How exactly do i use my hydrometer ??

[newmod]

I have been reading and researching on how to use my hydrometer. Last year I just use thermometer to finish syrup. Could have gone better! I know finished temp of syrup is 219. when do I use hydrometer? What temp or when should I take it off the pan, and finish it on turkey cooker/propane? As I am finishing in cooker do I just keep checking brix with hydro? and it should be roughly 66 correct ? thank for the help.
I might tap the trees tomorrow. Has been extremely cold and getting another snow storm tomorrow, But supposed to warm up soon/somewhat

Newmod

[maplerookie]

look up leader hydrometer on the world wid web. it gives you all you need to know. also search this forum..it has a lot of info

[Sugarmaker]

Welcome,
Have a large ladle or scoop to move boiling syrup to fill your hydrometer cup. Then carefully place the hydrometer in to the cup of hot syrup. It should float at the upper read line, level or just slightly above. If it sinks to the bottom your syrup is not done. Boil longer and test. Syrup isnt always made at 219. Usually 217 at our place. After you get the hydrometer to show syrup, look at the temp on your thermometer. Use the temp now as a guide to finish the syrup. Hope that helps.
Regards,
Chris

[eustis22]

Never EVER DROP your hydrometer into the cup. It will break. Always lower it all the way to the bottom of the cup and then let it go...as your sugar content rises, so will the hydrometer until you get to your 66 Brix

[lpakiz]

On the first test, I put the hydrometer all the way to the bottom, let go and see if it RISES. If it does rise, on subsequent tests, I lower it to the hot red line and release it. It still may sink, but not so fast and hard as to break the bottom off the glass. Cup should be 1/2 inch shorter than the hydrometer, preheated and filled to overflowing.

[maplerookie]

make sure you clean your hydrometer between each test. the extra weight of syrup from the last test will give you a false reading. also never keep your hydrometer stored in the test cup..too easy to get busy and knock it over . I just put mine in between folds of a towel on the counter right where I can see it