To clean the inside of a still, I usually use white vinegar. It’s a great natural cleaner that can help remove any residue and buildup from the inside of the still. Here’s how I do it:
1. First, I make sure the still is empty and disconnected from any power source. Safety is always a priority.
2. Then, I fill the boiler with a gallon of white vinegar. This should be enough to cover the inside of the still and penetrate any stubborn deposits.
3. Next, I attach the column back onto the still. This ensures that the vinegar can flow through the entire system and clean all the components.
4. Once everything is set up, I turn on the still and let it boil for about an hour. The heat helps to activate the cleaning properties of the vinegar and loosen any grime or residue.
5. While the vinegar is boiling, it’s important to keep an eye on the still to make sure everything is running smoothly. I also recommend using heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands in case you need to handle any hot surfaces.
6. After the hour is up, I carefully dump out the hot vinegar. It’s crucial to be cautious during this step as the vinegar will be hot and can cause burns if not handled properly. I usually use a funnel to direct the vinegar into a container for disposal.
7. Once the vinegar is drained, I rinse the still thoroughly with clean water. This helps to remove any remaining vinegar and ensure that no taste or smell is left behind.
8. I let the still air dry or use a clean cloth to dry it completely before using it again. This step is important to prevent any moisture buildup or contamination.
In my experience, running vinegar through a still takes about an hour. However, the actual time may vary depending on the condition of the still and the amount of buildup present. It’s always a good idea to check the inside of the still after cleaning to ensure that it’s free from any residue or deposits before using it for distillation.