A propane burner gives you a flame. An electric element gives you a dial. Our 220V Electric Heating Element with Controller lets you run your copper still like a lab instrument. You set the heat, watch the vapor rise and make small changes you can repeat next time. The old alchemists would have done it this way if they'd had a wall outlet.
What's in the kit
- 220V electric heating element with a standard 1-inch NPT pipe thread
- Precision temperature controller
- All the wiring and connectors you need
- Optional stainless ferrule setup, available on request
Why heat with electricity
Steady heat is the quiet secret behind clean cuts. When the temperature stays where you set it, heads, hearts and tails separate more predictably and the distillate comes out smoother. There's no open flame and no weather to fight, so an electric setup works better indoors. It's also safer for both hobby and advanced distillers. It installs easily and works with all American Copper Works stills, including pot stills, thumper setups and worm condensers.
Picking the right element
This 220V element is best for stills of 10 gallons and up. If your still holds more than 60 gallons, we recommend adding a second 220V element so it heats up faster. For stills under 10 gallons, our 110V electric heating unit is enough.
Built to be trusted
Our electric parts come from a manufacturer with more than 50 years in the electrical industry, and the kit has a lifetime warranty. If you're not sure your space has the right 220V circuit, have a licensed electrician check it before you plug in. Questions? Call our family shop at 603-997-6786.
Owning a still is legal in the US, but distilling alcohol requires federal (TTB) permits. Always follow federal, state and local law.
