Umair Gaines
When it comes to distilling alcohol, choosing the right equipment is crucial. While various heat sources can be used, such as gas burners or electric controllers with hot water heating elements, this article will focus on the size of electric hot plates specifically for moonshine distillation. Electric hot plates offer a convenient and portable option for those wishing to distil spirits, especially in enclosed spaces like apartments. It is important to consider factors such as the size of the boiler, power requirements, and the presence of a controller to regulate temperature and prevent undesirable results. With the right setup, anyone can start their journey towards crafting their own whiskey, bourbon, or rum.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 110V, 120V, 220V |
| Wattage | 1500W |
| Material | Copper, Lead-free solder, Steel |
| Capacity | 2-7 gallons |
| Components | Pot, Thumper, Worm, Cap, Temperature Gauge, Hydrometer |
| Features | Digital controller, No power cycling, Adjustable knob, Lifetime warranty |
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What You'll Learn
110V hotplate for 2-gallon copper electric moonshine stills
A 110V hotplate is ideal for a 2-gallon copper electric moonshine still. This setup is perfect for distilling spirits like whiskey, bourbon, and rum, or even making essential oils, perfumes, and ethanol gas.
When choosing a heat source for your moonshine still, you have a few options: a gas burner, an electric hot plate, or an electric controller with hot water heating elements. If you're using an electric hotplate, it's important to consider the wattage and ensure it's adequate for your boiler size. For a 2-gallon still, a 110V hotplate is sufficient.
Some people prefer to use an internal element with a controller setup, as it provides more control over the heat and is more efficient than a simple hotplate. With a controller, you can adjust the knob to control the amount of power and heat, resulting in a more consistent and controlled distillation process.
However, some people opt for a hotplate without a controller, which can still get the job done. For example, a 1500W BroilKing hotplate from Amazon can be used with a 7-gallon boiler, but keep in mind that the hotplate may eventually succumb to the heat radiated down onto it, as one user experienced after a few months of use.
If you're looking for a complete setup, American Copper Works offers a 2-gallon copper moonshine still with a 110V electric element and control, which includes all the necessary home distilling equipment. This setup also comes with a lifetime warranty and is handcrafted with heavy-gauge copper and lead-free solder, ensuring a safe and durable product.
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1500W hotplate for 5-7 gallon stills
A 1500W hotplate is a suitable heat source for a 5-7 gallon still. It is important to note that the hotplate should be used with a controller to eliminate the on/off cycles, although it will work without one.
One user reported that their 1500W BroilKing hotplate, used with a controller, took between 1 hour and 5 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes to produce a slightly less than 5-gallon yield.
Another user reported that their 1500W hotplate, used with a 7-gallon milk can filled to 5 gallons, worked fine for about 4 months. However, due to the heat being radiated down onto the hotplate, some of the insulation on the circuitry melted, causing a small meltdown. They were able to fix the issue by purchasing another hotplate and connecting the wires from the burner to the original hotplate's coil, creating a "slave" unit.
It is worth noting that some people recommend against using hotplates for stills due to the cycling of the controller causing undesirable results. Instead, they suggest using a good internal element and controller setup, which is more efficient and cheaper.
When choosing a 1500W hotplate for a 5-7 gallon still, it is important to consider the geometry of the boiling vessel, as it can impact the heat absorption and boiling time. Additionally, it is recommended to use hotplates with adjustable temperature settings and stay-cool handles for safety and convenience.
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Electric hotplate vs. gas burner
When it comes to choosing a heat source for your moonshine still, there are a few options to consider, including gas burners, electric hot plates, and electric controllers with hot water heating elements. Here is a detailed comparison between electric hot plates and gas burners to help you decide which option is best suited for your needs:
Electric Hot Plate:
Electric hot plates are self-contained tabletop appliances featuring electric heating elements. They are typically used for food preparation in locations where a kitchen stove is not convenient. Electric hot plates come in two types: coil and smooth-top or induction. They are easy to operate, less expensive to purchase and install, and offer a stable work surface for pots and pans. One of the main advantages of electric hot plates is that they do not emit any flames or gases, making them safer to use indoors. Additionally, they are portable and can be easily moved to different locations. However, one of the drawbacks of electric hot plates is that they can be less efficient in terms of energy consumption and cost. They may also take longer to heat up and cool down, affecting the overall time required for the distillation process.
Gas Burner:
Gas burners use natural gas, propane, butane, or liquefied petroleum gas as fuel. They offer precise temperature control and are known for their ability to quickly reach and maintain high temperatures. Gas burners are often favoured for their ease of use and quick adjustment capabilities. They can be manually adjusted or turned off when not in use, making them energy-efficient. Additionally, gas burners are generally less expensive to operate than electric hot plates, resulting in long-term cost savings. However, one of the main concerns with gas burners is the potential release of gas into the air if the burner is left on but unlit. This can be a significant safety hazard, especially in enclosed spaces. Gas burners may also require proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful gases.
When deciding between an electric hot plate and a gas burner for moonshine distillation, consider factors such as safety, cost, convenience, and energy efficiency. If you prioritize safety and indoor use, an electric hot plate might be preferable. On the other hand, if cost-effectiveness and precise temperature control are more important, a gas burner could be the better option. Additionally, if you opt for an electric hot plate, ensure that it has sufficient wattage (around 1500W is recommended) to handle the distillation process effectively.
In terms of specific size recommendations for electric hot plates used in moonshine distillation, sources mention a 110V hotplate suitable for a 2-gallon copper electric moonshine still. Additionally, a 1500W hot plate is mentioned as adequate for a 5-7 gallon boiler, although it is recommended to use a controller to eliminate the on/off cycles and improve efficiency.
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Electric hotplate with a controller
Electric hot plates are a common heat source for moonshine stills, especially in enclosed spaces like apartments where other options may not be feasible. They are also a safer option than gas burners.
When choosing an electric hot plate for moonshine, it is important to consider the size and power requirements. A 1500W hot plate seems to be a common choice for those with boilers ranging from 2 to 7 gallons. However, it is important to ensure that the hot plate has the appropriate voltage requirements, with 110V and 220V options available depending on the region.
Some hot plates come with a controller, which allows for more precise temperature control by adjusting the power output. This can be an advantage as it gives the operator more control over the distilling process. However, some people have noted that the cycling of the controller on certain hot plates can cause undesirable results, so it is important to choose a hot plate with a suitable controller or to use an external controller to eliminate the on/off cycles.
A few companies specialize in manufacturing copper moonshine stills with electric hot plates, offering complete sets that include all the necessary distilling equipment. These sets typically include a pot, thumper, worm, cap, and electric hot plate, and are usually available in 2-gallon sizes. Some companies also offer lifetime warranties on their products, which can provide added peace of mind for purchasers.
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Electric hotplate with an internal element
When it comes to choosing an electric hotplate with an internal element for moonshine, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to match the size of the hotplate to the size of your boiler. For example, a 2-gallon boiler would typically be used with a 110V hotplate, while a larger 5-7 gallon boiler might require a 1500W hotplate.
Electric hotplates with internal elements are a popular choice for moonshine distillation due to their safety and convenience, especially in urban or apartment settings. They eliminate the need for an open flame or gas burner, reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, electric hotplates with internal elements provide more precise temperature control compared to external heat sources.
It is worth noting that some distillers express a preference for hotplates with controllers, as these allow for more consistent heating without the on/off cycles that can occur with basic hotplates. Controllers function like a dimmer switch, providing constant power while allowing the operator to adjust the heat output as needed. This can result in a more efficient and controlled distillation process.
When selecting an electric hotplate with an internal element, it is important to consider the quality and durability of the product. Some hotplates may struggle to handle the weight of a boiler, particularly when it is filled with liquid, so choosing a well-built and sturdy option is essential. Additionally, ensuring that the hotplate has adequate safety features, such as overheat protection or auto-shutoff, can provide peace of mind during the distillation process.
Overall, an electric hotplate with an internal element can be an excellent choice for moonshine distillation, offering safety, precision, and convenience. By considering factors such as size, power, and the inclusion of a controller, individuals can select the most suitable hotplate for their specific needs and create high-quality spirits in small batches.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a 110v hotplate for a 2-gallon copper electric moonshine still.
A 1500W hotplate should be adequate for a 5-7 gallon boiler.
Electric hot plates are safer than gas burners as they do not require filling a propane tank and there is no risk of open flames.
Electric hot plates can sometimes cause undesirable results due to the cycling of the controller.
