Unpopular opinion: I never worry about water chemistry in my brews
After five years of home brewing, I've never adjusted my water beyond using a filter! Many brewers say it's crucial, but my beers always turn out great to me. Is water chemistry really that important for beginners?
My approach to water is basically the same as my approach to cooking, where I start out simple and then end up watching a three hour video on salt types. I went down the water chemistry rabbit hole last year, bought all the little jars of minerals, and then got so mixed up I just went back to my filter. If your beer tastes good after five years, your water is probably just fine for what you're making. Sometimes I wonder if we overcomplicate this hobby before we even need to.
Went through the same mineral jar phase last summer. Had spreadsheets for water profiles and everything, but my beer didn't improve. Now I just use tap water with a campden tablet. Why do we chase perfection when good enough tastes fine?