VEVOR 13.2 Gallon (50 L) Still Kit: features, specs and what to check

The VEVOR 13.2 Gal / 50 L still is a home distilling kit made of stainless steel, copper and silicone. It includes a boiler, a copper-coil condenser, a thumper keg, a small circulating water pump and a thermometer in the lid. This page explains what each part does and what to look at before choosing equipment like this. Distilling rules differ widely by country, state and province, so read the local law first.

What the capacity means

VEVOR says the boiler holds up to 50 litres (13.2 US gallons) of raw material. The boiler barrel is listed at 15.7 x 15.7 inches (40 x 40 cm), the condenser at 7.9 x 4.7 inches (20 x 12 cm) and the thumper at 7 x 4 inches (18 x 10 cm). Distilling usually needs headspace in the boiler, so you would normally fill it well below the top. The brand lists the kit for batches such as family gatherings.

How the parts work together

In a still, liquid is heated in the boiler, and the vapour travels to the condenser, where it cools back to liquid. A thumper keg sits between boiler and condenser in many designs; it takes the vapour on its way through, and VEVOR says spices can be placed in it to add flavour.

The condenser uses an open cooling method. Copper conducts heat quickly, and VEVOR says the coil's large contact area with the coolant allows a lower distillation temperature. A circulating pump is included to reuse the cooling water, and a rubber pad under the condenser is there to insulate and help cooling.

Thermometer and seals

The lid has a thermometer showing Celsius and Fahrenheit together, so you can watch the temperature during a run. For a tight seal, VEVOR uses food-grade silicone tubing, four lid buckles and silicone gaskets. A one-way exhaust valve is also included for use during fermentation, which lets gas escape without letting air in.

Heat sources and uses

The base is thickened so that different heat sources can be used: VEVOR names gas stoves, firewood and electric ceramic heaters. The listing says the kit can be used for spirits, wine, brandy, rum, tequila and vodka, and also as a water distiller, or for ethanol and essential oils. Which of these are legal to do at home depends entirely on where you live.

What to check before you buy

• Legality: home distilling of alcohol is restricted or banned in many places; check local law and any licence rules before buying.
• Heat source: make sure your stove or heater suits a 40 cm base. Gas and wood flames call for good ventilation and distance from anything flammable.
• Water supply: the cooling coil needs a steady supply of cold water, so consider where it will drain.
• Space and weight: the boiler is large, and it will be heavy when full.
• Cleaning: copper and stainless steel need cleaning after each use; check the manual.
• Safety: ethanol vapour is flammable. Follow the manual closely and never leave a running still unattended.

The short version

• A 13.2 gallon (50 L) stainless steel and copper still kit with a thumper keg.
• Copper condenser coil, circulating water pump and a lid thermometer in °C and °F.
• Silicone tubing, four buckles, gaskets and a one-way exhaust valve.
• Thick base for gas, wood or electric ceramic heaters.
• Check your local rules before you buy or use it.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.