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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57 Comments

  • D
    Comment Author: dan

    When I soldered the bottom on the boiler some solder leaked out to the bottom on the outside. If I use a propane turkey fryer, will it melt the solder?

  • JM
    Comment Author: Josh mabery

    Kyle I finally got my still togeather looks great haven’t got to use it yet but I was wondering if I use a propane burner or eletric will it get hot enough to re-melt the solder one more ? When I make a run will I have to put it back thru the still again and do you reuse the mash Looking forward for your reply

  • A
    Comment Author: Allan

    Kyle, I’m wondering if you are required to report to the Feds or any other authorities the names of those who you send your kits to?

    Also with your still how many runs does it take to make a good whiskey? Is one run enough?

    On a ten gallon run of wash, how much drinkable whiskey is produced?

    Thanks Kyle.

  • C
    Comment Author: Chris

    I purchased one of your kits and have made a few batches already. I installed a thermometer just below the column. The column is packed with copper scrubbers. I’m trying to determine when the methanol is cooked off, but the still will not produce anything until around 200 deg. I throw away the first 1/2 pint to be safe from a 5 gallon mash. I’m obviusly getting product because it gives me a blue flame until I get to the end of the batch. Any thoughts on why it won’t produce until the 200 mark? Any input would be greatful

  • SE
    Comment Author: scott emmert

    Twould be great to see your replys next to these comments :)

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Categories

Various beers in glasses

How To Brew

Clear liquor in a rocks glass with a lime wedge

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Pouring ingredients into a brewing kit

Try New Recipes

A group of people toasting with steins of beer

Learn From Interviews