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

  • R
    Comment Author: Rocky

    Hey. How are u? I’ve got my 10 gal together.I tested by filling with water all the way up vapor cone to top and let sit on cement for 10 min. Looked good. Put water in it and heated and it leaked. It’s soldered from inside just like the video. What do u think happened and what do u recommend? Could I use 15% silver solder stick or would that have to get too hot? I think it melts around 1100f. Should I solder from bottom? I’m worried the heat from burner will melt solder loose? Is that possible? I’m not sure what 15% has in it but I could look up. Thanks. Ps my wash is ready

  • J
    Comment Author: Jon

    Once I put in the 1/2" Fitting x Female NPT Wrot Copper Pipe Adapter, I got to thinking, I should get another 1/2" Fitting x Female NPT Wrot Copper Pipe Adapter and screw in a ball lock valve for easy cleaning? I’d put it about an inch or so off the bottom. What do y’all think?

  • JR
    Comment Author: Jonathan Rogers

    What thermometer do you recommend?

  • R
    Comment Author: Ron

    Hi my name is Ron:Kyle I read almost every-thing on your web-site,and I want to say what a GREAT JOB you did.The video and audio and info and kits you offer are the best on the web.
    You put a lot of time and effort into all of this that I think you should get a HUGE recognition for your input on this historical subject.
    I can only offer you praise on a well done,(HIGHEST OF HIGH FIVE)(10 out of 10)Website,and a probable order on one of your great still kits.
    Thanks so much,Have you ever shipped one of your kits to a Canadian address?If so could you give me any info on that?
    Look forward to hearing back from you.Ron

  • M
    Comment Author: Mike

    Do your stills come with assembly instructions? I have no Internet access to watch the online videos.

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A group of people toasting with steins of beer

Learn From Interviews