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Wort dilution calculator: water to reach target gravity
For unfermented wort, final volume ≈ current volume × current gravity points ÷ target gravity points. Diluting 20 L at 1.060 to 1.050 requires about 4 L of water, giving 24 L total.
BrewMyBeer editorial · Sources checked 24 September 2026 · Calculated examples, not laboratory measurements. How we create content
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Change the example values. Inputs stay in your browser.
Confirm the reading before changing the batch
Mix the wort and confirm volume and temperature-corrected gravity. A concentrated sample from poorly mixed top-up wort can suggest a problem that the full batch does not have.
Use the same temperature basis for the measurements. This is the usual gravity-points approximation, not an exact solution based on extract mass and density tables. The displayed decimal places do not imply that level of real-world accuracy.
Water changes more than original gravity
Top-up water reduces concentrations of extract, colour and bitterness. In the example, 20 L becomes 24 L, so ingredients already dissolved in the original wort are distributed across 20% more volume. Review the intended flavour as well as the target SG.
Use water suitable for brewing and an appropriate sanitary process for the stage of production. Cold-side additions need particular care with contamination and oxygen exposure. This tool does not prescribe a treatment method or certify the batch for packaging.
Before you use the result
- Adding water cannot raise gravity.
- A target equal to current gravity requires no water.
- Do not use this wort model to blend finished spirits to a labelled strength.
A quick learning check
Why does reducing 60 gravity points to 50 require 24 L total rather than 22 L?
Try a craft decision game →Sources & further reading
These references explain the methods and limitations. The worked examples and learning questions on this page are BrewMyBeer calculations, not claims of hands-on testing.