A still is a piece of lab gear you can put your hands on. Copper, heat and vapor all react to what you do, and every run is an experiment you set up and control. The 30 Gallon "EZ KIT" Advanced Model is pure copper, and it comes with an EZ Seal Cap and a 4 inch thumper port. This page covers how we'd approach it from opening the box to the first test run.
Step 1: Lay Out and Inspect
Before you assemble anything, lay every copper part on a clean surface. Look at each joint and opening, and get a feel for how the cap, the pot and the 4 inch thumper port fit together. If something isn't clear, call the shop at 603-997-6786 before you start guessing. That beats taking it apart later.
Step 2: Seat the EZ Seal Cap
The cap is where the vapor path starts. Seat it evenly and check that it sits square all the way around. A clean, even seal at the cap makes every step after it easier to troubleshoot.
Step 3: Run Water First
Your first run should be water only. Heat it slowly and watch every connection for steam or drips. Learn how the copper heats up and how quickly vapor moves through the system. That's your baseline. You get to know the equipment while nothing is at stake, and it's also a first rinse of the inside.
Step 4: Clean and Maintain
Let the copper cool after each run, then rinse it, dry it and store it. Check the cap seal and the port connections every time. Copper rewards a little attention.
- Inspect every part before you assemble
- Seat the EZ Seal Cap evenly
- Do the first run with water only
- Rinse, dry and inspect after every run
Owning a still is legal in the US. Distilling alcohol requires federal (TTB) permits. Follow all federal, state and local laws.
