Thoughts on using electric water boiler as a brewpot

[liammiller]

I have been brewing small (12L) batches because at the time of buying my pot I didn't want to invest in anything larger as I was just starting out brewing. Now I want to do larger batches but I worry that my hob might not be able to heat 25L or so of water.

I have found this boiler online (http://www.empiresuppliesonline.co.uk/30-litre-stainless-steel-water-boiler-474-p.asp) and wondered if there is any reason why it wouldn't be a good idea to use this as a brewpot?

 

[Steved53]

It looks fine as is, with 3kw for 30 litres, so should heat up quickly.

If you wanted to change the tap, it looks like it might be a little complicated, with the sight glass attached.

Another consideration is that similar boilers will often not produce a rolling boil, without some alterations. Actually, as long as you are fairly handy, it is often quite easy to carry out. I would not detach any safety features, but simply move the thermocouple slightly away from the heat source. At the right distance it will maintain a rolling boil and still be useful as a cut out, if you boiled it dry.

 

[pms67]

I use a 30l Burco Cygnet boiler, works perfectly, although i think its 30l when right to the brim so i can really only boil around 27

 

[Doglaner]

I use a 30l Burco Cygnet boiler, works perfectly, although i think its 30l when right to the brim so i can really only boil around 27

I have the same. Ditto.

 

[BeerCat]

If i didn't have the ace boiler and an induction hob i would buy one of these. Change the tap and connect it to a PID. Sounds like a bargain.

 

[Bigcol49]

I have found this boiler online (http://www.empiresuppliesonline.co.uk/30-litre-stainless-steel-water-boiler-474-p.asp) and wondered if there is any reason why it wouldn't be a good idea to use this as a brewpot?

Hi!
Take care! I ordered a similar 30 litre boiler, but when it arrived it only held 22 litres brimful.
The company refunded my money but didn't collect the boiler. One free lauter tun, methinks!

 

[Fil]

some modern urns may be fitted with overboil and dry boil protection that hamper maintaining a rolling boil for 60-90 minutes.

If a problem these can be replaced with higher rated components or bypassed, so it looks like a good candidate at a very reasonable price.