[FlowerPlanter]

After trying to prevent air space in carboys after racking. Every time you rack you get more space. Topping it off with a similar wine or mead is usually difficult. And would result in having excess space in other containers.

So last winter I purchased a CO2 bicycle tire inflator with CO2 carriages for around $12. It no longer matters how much air is left at the top, a second or two spray of the CO2 quickly displaces any gasses left in the carboy. The cold CO2 is heavier and pushes other gasses upward. I can even take a gallon and leave the rest to age.

Not sure if this is the reason but my meads have definitely got better

 

[Specialkayme]

I've always used sterilized marbles.

 

[Ravenseye]

Doesn't it have to attach to a tire valve to grt the co2 out?

 

[FlowerPlanter]

The pin does not need to be pressed to release gas, you can control the air released by a opening and closing a valve. It also did not leak unused gas for a few months between racking.

This is the one I purchased the price has gone up a bit, there are lots of others just get one with good reviews.

https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-...&qid=1512481290&sr=8-30&keywords=co2+inflator

One CO2 canister is good for about 20 carboys of different levels.

 

[Ravenseye]

Awesome. Thanks!