SO4:Cl
5.0
Gypsum
11.6g
CaCl2
2.5g
11.6g
2.5g
0g
1.1g
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Inputs
Result
Pilsen SO4=5, target=250. Deficit=245ppm. Gypsum = (245/147.4) × 7 = 11.6g. Pilsen Cl=5, target=50. CaCl2 = (45/127.4) × 7 = 2.5g. Final SO4:Cl = (5+245)/(5+45) = 5.0.
Inputs
Result
Target SO4=50, Cl=75, HCO3=200. Gypsum for SO4 deficit: (45/147.4)×5 = 1.5g. CaCl2 for Cl deficit: (70/127.4)×5 = 2.7g. Baking soda for HCO3: (185/231.7)×5 = 4g. SO4:Cl = 50/75 = 0.7.
The sulfate-to-chloride (SO4:Cl) ratio determines whether a beer emphasizes hop bitterness or malt sweetness. A ratio above 2.0 highlights hops (dry, crisp, bitter). Below 0.8 emphasizes malt (soft, round, sweet). Between 0.8 and 2.0 is balanced. IPAs typically target 3–5:1, while stouts target 0.5–1:1.
| Beer Style | Target SO4:Cl | SO4 (ppm) | Cl (ppm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPA / Pale Ale | >3:1 | 200–300 | 50–70 |
| Amber / Brown | 1–2:1 | 60–80 | 50–70 |
| Stout / Porter | <1:1 | 40–60 | 70–100 |
| Lager / Pilsner | ~1:1 | 30–50 | 30–50 |
The four main brewing salts are gypsum (CaSO4, adds calcium and sulfate), calcium chloride (CaCl2, adds calcium and chloride), Epsom salt (MgSO4, adds magnesium and sulfate), and baking soda (NaHCO3, adds sodium and bicarbonate). Gypsum and calcium chloride are used most often. Adjust based on the deficit between your source water and target profile.
For IPA, target the Burton-on-Trent profile or a modified version with 200–300 ppm sulfate and 50–70 ppm chloride. Start with soft water (like Pilsen or RO water) and add gypsum for sulfate and a small amount of calcium chloride. The high sulfate accentuates hop bitterness and crispness that defines the style.
Calculate the mineral deficit between your source water and target profile. Then divide by each salt's mineral contribution per gram per gallon. For example, to add 100 ppm sulfate to 7 gallons starting from Pilsen water (5 ppm SO4): deficit = 95 ppm. Gypsum adds 147.4 ppm SO4 per gram per gallon. So grams = (95 / 147.4) × 7 = 4.5g gypsum.
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Last Updated: Mar 19, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.