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How do you read a distilling hydrometer?
How to Use a Proofing Hydrometer – A proofing hydrometer works (mechanically) exactly the same way a brewing hydrometer does. However, you don’t need to take a “starting gravity” reading. Simply drop a distilling hydrometer in high proof alcohol and read the number on the side.
How do you use a moonshine hydrometer?
Most Accurate Way to Measure – The best method to measure your moonshine is to use a proofing hydrometer and a copper moonshine parrot or a borosilicate glass test jar., as described above. Once you have the proofing parrot correctly set up, making sure the drop arm from the moonshine still drips directly into the parrot, you can carefully place the hydrometer into the parrot.
The moonshine will fill up the parrot and the hydrometer will float. You are now able to read the scale on the floating hydrometer and take an accurate measurement of the proof of your moonshine. Give the hydrometer a quick, gentle spin to remove any air bubbles, as they can affect the reading. Once you have your measurement recorded you can empty the moonshine out of the parrot and into a small jar.
This is the easiest and most accurate method to measure the alcohol content of your moonshine and monitor the ABV while you’re making it.
How do you know if moonshine is safe to drink?
One way to test the purity of a moonshine liquor is to pour some in a metal spoon and set it on fire. If it burns with a blue flame, it is more likely safe to drink. If it produces a yellow or red flame, it is an indication of the presence of lead.
How do you measure ABV when distilling?
To measure the ABV in your spirit, you will need an alcoholmeter. This is a small float, with a scale in it. The more alcohol that is present, the lighter the density of the liquid and so the alcoholmeter sinks a bit lower. You then read off the scale how much alcohol is present and dilute accordingly.