Spikes in temperature are related to two primary reasons:
- Excessive foaming which results usually from when distilling conditioner isn't used and/or the wash not being fully fermented. Have the customer confirm the S.G was stable at approx 0.990 for two days before clearing and distilling?
- Inconsistent flow rate. Have the customer take some water flow readings once the unit is set up at different times to ensure that the pump is maintaining a steady flow?
If the temperature is fluctuating, check the water flow rate.
This may be caused by inconsistent water flow/pressure or others using water outlets/taps in the house.
If this is fluctuating, then this causes the temperature to do so too. This leads to a lower alcohol % in the final output.
If using the Turbo 500, adjust water flow by opening/closing the water flow controller valve. Use the Still Spirits Water Flow Regulator if you have one.
Why is the temperature fluctuation even with a water flow regulator?
The temperature may be fluctuating if the reservoir is not always filled with water.
When the water level gets low, it can affect the water flow and in turn the temperature. Open the tap for a larger water flow.
It may also be caused by frothing of the wash up the column in which case, make sure you are using distilling conditioner and ceramic boil enhancers. This can also be caused by unfermented sugar in your wash.