Most hotplates try to maintain a constant temperature by cycling on for a number of seconds, then off for a number of seconds... if yours does this then you'll need to modify it - remove the thermostat and get a power controller.thesource674 wrote:Paulinka, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this whole thread...twice...as brandy is the drink that made me want to start distilling in the first place!
I have a question I have not quite been able to deduce fully however, it appears that i DO want to do a stripping run of my mash (or in this case apple cider) to make low wines before I do a spirit run. However you recommend that you do the stripping run not over a high heat but a lower heat. I use a hotplate since my still is smaller. Does this mean for a stripping run I should slowly turn the heat up as you recommend until a decent heat and the mash is at a steady boil but not a real high heat and raging boil. I imagine its something to that effect but I would love some clarification if at all possible!
Cheers
The end result will be a hotplate that is always on with variable power output. In which case, turn on full until the first drop, then dial back the power to run slowly.