Thermometer - Custom Copper Still Mod

Kyle Brown on March 30, 2013

This blog provides information for educational purposes only. Read our complete summary for more info.

How to install a Thermometer in a Copper Still

One of the most common questions we get asked VIA email and over the phone is,"How is a thermometer added to a copper still and where is the best place to install it?"

Watch this video for a full tutorial, but read on for more info and a critical pro tip.

Measure Liquid Temp and/or Vapor Temp with a Permanent Copper Fitting and 3" Thermometer

The absolute best way to add a thermometer to a copper still is to permanently install a 1/2" copper bung and then screw a stainless steel thermometer with 1/2" NPT threads into that. The copper fitting can be soldered into the boiler of the still or soldered into the column with the column thermometer kit. Apply Teflon tape to threads on thermometer and screw thermometer into copper fitting. Hand tighten and then snug with pliers. Do not over tighten!! 
In addition to a boiler thermometer, you may consider a column thermometer as well. Images and links for each are below:

Top Secret Pro Tip: Use a Stepped Drill Bit For Boiler Wall Hole

After we created and published our thermometer video someone emailed us and mentioned that we should use a stepped bit to make the hole for the thermometer in the still boiler wall. If there is a right tool for this job, the stepped drill bit is it! We managed to get by with our tin snips, but it's not the easiest thing to do and also doesn't produce a very clean opening. Stepped bits are self piloting and they make a super clean hole in the copper. We definitely picked one up from the shop after seeing how awesome they are.

Stainless Steel Still Thermometer Options

For those that have one of our 8 gallon stainless steel stills installing thermometers is a very simple process. A distiller will need our 8 gallon stainless steel thermometer combo kit - simply attach the column thermometer with the provided hardware and screw the boiler thermometer into the provided fitting on the still.

Portrait of Kyle Brown
Portrait of Kyle Brown

Kyle Brown

Read Kyle's Articles

Kyle Brown is the owner of Clawhammer Supply, a small scale distillation and brewing equipment company which he founded in 2009. His passion is teaching people about the many uses of distillation equipment as well as how to make beer at home. When he isn't brewing beer or writing about it, you can find him at his local gym or on the running trail.

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56 Comments

  • G
    Comment Author: greg

    1) What is the typical yield in gallons of shine if I run a batch using your 10 gallon still?

    2) I’m a newbie. I will need help. If I buy your still kit, will you provide telephone support?

  • R
    Comment Author: Randy

    How would I install a thermometer in a stainless steel keg?

  • J
    Comment Author: justin

    hello, i was curious to know if maybe yall had any plans to make a kit for a still bigger than 10 gallons.

  • J
    Comment Author: Jon

    I have built a copper Internal Reflux Condenser Still. I’m considering installing a thermometer/pressure gage on the cap at the top of the column head close to where the alcohol vapor enters the condenser jacket. Is measuring the vapor temperature on the column head a good option or should I install a thermometer in the boiler to measure the fluid temperature instead? I have a stainless steel boiler that I would prefer not to drill a hole to install the thermometer.

  • SP
    Comment Author: Scott Pack

    I’m attaching the boiler with rivets and I started to soldering iron the copper. It looks lime there is a gap in between the joint but its not visible with a flash light. My question is can I add more solder to the joint?

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A group of people toasting with steins of beer

Learn From Interviews