DIY Electric Brew Kettle Help Needed

[Brounds24]

How about this...
Tell us what power you have
tell us what you want to do and we can help you... it's just been hard to help because what you've been wanting has been changing a bit.

My wants have changed based on what I have available to me without having to worry about buying, installing, checking, breakers. I know how to check my Outlets (which i do every month or two as directed).I know don't a lot about electrical work, but im learning the more a read and the more questions I ask, but I am still behind the 8 ball. If I build the set up with to heat sticks I dont have to worry about drilling holes that will expand/shrink, and leakage. I found some really got videos and articles on how to build a heat stick. I can also make a portable electric systems that can take for on the go brewing providing they have 20A GFCI breakers (or I could build them into my project box).

Materials are also easier and cheaper:
Two 2000W heating elements: $22
Two Volt Controllers: $42
50A extension cord (50'): Have
two 20A outlets (non GFCI): $6
Project Box: $10
4 Plugs: ????
Total: under $100

I have:
5500W 204V Element
I do have an outlet for it.
I dont have any GFCI breakers or outlets of 20A

 

[kal]

If I build the set up with to heat sticks I dont have to worry about drilling holes that will expand/shrink, and leakage.

Holes in stainless or aluminum or will never expand/shrink.

If done properly they'll never leak either.Take Blichmann's popular boilermaker kettles: One thing many people do not realize is that all of their fittings (ball valve, thermometer, and sight glass) are all done with punched holes and weldless fittings. They never leak, they never need servicing. I attach all of my fittings (including heating elements) using the same method, as have 1000's of other brewers. No leaks. I've been using my electric setup for 5+ years now.

Kal

 

[Rivenin]

Holes in stainless or aluminum or will never expand/shrink.

what he said,
Also, i'd be very leary about building heatsticks vs drilling holes into your pot.
With the pot, it's just a hole, 1 o ring and a nut.. if you leak you're probably too tight on there, or no teflon tape on the element.
with the heat sticks, the holes aren't the same size, you have to use JB weld... etc. the heatstick route scares me quite a bit more.