Preparing / Cleaning a new still

[dooley]

What is the best procedure for preparing a new still? I've read to run regular water to check for leaks, run water mixed with vinegar to clean... I've also read comments about running a turbo yeast mash to further clean the pipes (which I'm assuming is then poured out rather than bottled).

I'm sure this must be addressed already, but I haven't been able to find an answer here (I've done a lot of reading on the forum, but so much info here - feels like I'm trying to drink from a fire hose!). So, please point me in the right direction, and forgive me if this is covered extensively already, 'cause I've looked and am still finding my way around the forums.

(And THANK YOU to everyone who has contributed to the forums; I've been going bug-eyed every night for the past couple of weeks, reading trying to absorb all the valuable info here!)
~ Dooley

[Braz]

What is the best procedure for preparing a new still? I've read to run regular water to check for leaks, run water mixed with vinegar to clean... I've also read comments about running a turbo yeast mash to further clean the pipes (which I'm assuming is then poured out rather than bottled).

You've pretty much got it. No need to spend money on turbo yeast, though. Ferment and run a simple sugar wash using bakers yeast (WPOSW is a good choice - look in Tried & True recipes) then toss it. This run will help clean your rig and give you a good indication of how your still wants to run.

[Ayay]

Hi welcome. As above and you got it. A cheap cask of wino or vodka will provide the initial cleaning alcohol. Throw it away afterwards and move on...there will be much more as time progresses.

[olddog]

A good vinegar and water mix 50-50 run through the still immediately after the build, will remove the flux residue and build crap.


OD

[dooley]

Thanks, everyone! I appreciate the good advise.
Best Regards,
~ Dooley

[arkshine]

I recently aquired an old copper pot type still it has been sitting in a building for several years i have scrubbed it and washed out with vinegar and water but still have a yellow residue inside. it has also sulphated in spots.i was thinking of trying muratic acid(diluted 8 to 1 with water)has anyone tried this? would it be safe to use? Thanks

[Fastill]

I recently aquired an old copper pot type still it has been sitting in a building for several years i have scrubbed it and washed out with vinegar and water but still have a yellow residue inside. it has also sulphated in spots.i was thinking of trying muratic acid(diluted 8 to 1 with water)has anyone tried this? would it be safe to use? Thanks

Just make sure you rinse it well!
Muratic acid cleans copper to a beautiful shine, for soldering, but you must wash it all away before use. I would try a sugar wash first, that might be enough to clean it for use. Can you get inside it with scotchbrite and scrub it?? Maybe scotchbrite on a broom handle or stick?

[Titus-a-fishus]

A good vinegar and water mix 50-50 run through the still immediately after the build, will remove the flux residue and build crap.


OD

So how long would you run this in the still?

I did it with 2ltrs of vinegar and 2ltrs of water.
For about 1.5 - 2hrs
The water that was condensed smelt slightly of vinegar but not much

[olddog]

That should have cleaned out all the flux and crap, now give the column a good rise out with plain water and it's ready to run.


OD

[Titus-a-fishus]

Done and done
Thanks

[Cackalack]

so, let me get this straight, new still, new copper, all you gotta do is run vinegar and water?

I thought someone mentioned a polish or some sort of food safe varnish that you're supposed to buff onto all surfaces so as to...I don't know

Just wanna be safe, I'm all set to run, just waiting for the green light with my new shiny copper beauty

[LWTCS]

The patina that will develope on the inside is beneficial.

OD and a few others like a shinny out side, but leave your interior be.

A good rinse with water after you run is sufficiant.

[drunkmore]

A good rinse with water after you run is sufficiant.

THIS IS GOLD great piece of advice