#9 Distillation Safety Precautions for Home Distilling

Here are some key distillation safety tips to keep in mind.

Wear Safety Gloves: Do not touch the metal parts of the boiler or distillation column without gloves during operation – they will be hot and could cause burns.

Avoid Opening the Lid: Do not open the lid while the liquid is at its boiling point. It makes sense to avoid scalding vapour, steam and potential spills.

Ventilation is Key: Use your distillation setup in a well ventilated area away from naked flames. This reduces the risk of fire and ensures that any harmful fumes are dispersed.

Don’t Overfill the Boiler: Overfilling can lead to flooding and puking in the column. Always follow the recommended fill levels for your distillation equipment.

Stay Attentive: Never leave your still unattended when it’s switched on. Constant monitoring helps prevent accidents and ensures proper operation.

Ethanol is Flammable: Remember that ethanol is a highly flammable liquid. Handle it with care and respect to avoid any fire hazards.

Keep Fire Extinguishers Handy: Have at least two fire extinguishers within reach. This provides a quick response option in case of any fire emergencies.

Remote Shutdown Capability: Be able to isolate the still if needed from a distance. This adds an extra layer of safety in case something goes wrong.

Discard First Cuts: Dump the first cuts that boil over, known as foreshots and heads. These contain harmful compounds and should not be consumed.