The Journey Begins

[jmreidmj]

Hello all! I have brewed beer in the Tampa area for nearly 10 years now. Have been thinking about getting into spirits for a while, and just received a spiffy new still for my birthday. Looking forward to learning about this craft, making all kinds of delicious beverages and sharing with family and friends!

[Not sure]

Welcome what type of still did you get we all like pics of stills here maybe someone has the same one and can help you run it. Anyway have fun be safe

[jmreidmj]

Thanks Not sure. Here she is. There was essentially no instructions included. The pot is rated at 35L. I just ran a test on the pump. Seems fine. Next step I'm planning is to put 50/50 mixture of vinegar/distilled h2o in the pot and turn on the heat. I have a heavy duty propane burner that should work. I'm just learning about distilling, so would appreciate any comments and suggestions.

[SomethingObscure]

Still_Pic.jpg

I'm just learning about distilling, so would appreciate any comments and suggestions.

I'm still a beginner too, but before you run any alcohol through your still that you intend on consuming be sure to remove any plastic or silicone from the vapour / produce path.. might be worth checking the seals on the boiler and the link between the column and condenser.

Good luck, stay safe and welcome.

SomethingObscure

[Not sure]

Still_Pic.jpg
Thanks Not sure. Here she is. There was essentially no instructions included. The pot is rated at 35L. I just ran a test on the pump. Seems fine. Next step I'm planning is to put 50/50 mixture of vinegar/distilled h2o in the pot and turn on the heat. I have a heavy duty propane burner that should work. I'm just learning about distilling, so would appreciate any comments and suggestions.

I'd at least take the rubber tube off the outlet and look into a bigger coolant tank maybe a blue barrel or a brute trash can dont forget your sacrifice run too

[jmreidmj]

What size (gals) would you recommend for the coolant tank?

[jonnys_spirit]

Welcome to HD! Enjoy the site and check out the rules. This is a welcome thread so you should post specific questions please in the appropriate sections.

Cheers,
-jonny

[jmreidmj]

Roger that.

[Dr Griz]

What size (gals) would you recommend for the coolant tank?

I use my 20 gallon laundry sink, topped up with well water. Depending on the size of the run, I need to partially drain and refill two or three times to keep the coolant cool enough. I reckon a 30 gallon trash can would work better, but I don’t have the space...

[The Baker]

What size (gals) would you recommend for the coolant tank?

I use my 20 gallon laundry sink, topped up with well water. Depending on the size of the run, I need to partially drain and refill two or three times to keep the coolant cool enough. I reckon a 30 gallon trash can would work better, but I don’t have the space...

Put it outside with the hoses through the window?

Geoff

[Dr Griz]

Put it outside with the hoses through the window?

That's some first class problem-solving there, Baker...