Do I Need Teflon Tape for my Brew Kettle?

[eljefe]

I am going to brew my first all grain batch this weekend. To that end, I have upgraded all of my equipment including a 10 gal. Polarware brew kettle. I purchased the one with the ball valve which arrived unattached. I also purchased a barb attachment for the other end.

I am not sure if I need to do anything other than screw them together before using. Should I use teflon tape/plumbers tape on both ends of the ball valve before attaching? Will the heat of the boil cause problems if I use the tape? When it comes to home repair, I am absolutely useless, so I need help.

Thank you for any advice that you can provide. Ideally, I start tomorrow (SWMBO out of town) and brew 3 - 4 batches over the weekend.

 

[JKoravos]

It is a good practice to do it. It's a very cheap and easy way to ensure a good seal.

 

[eljefe]

Thank you for the response. I have plenty left over from the DIY Cooler MLT, I was just concerned that the heat from the boil would cause problems. I am wrapping up the BK as I type this. Thanks again.

 

[JKoravos]

Thank you for the response. I have plenty left over from the DIY Cooler MLT, I was just concerned that the heat from the boil would cause problems. I am wrapping up the BK as I type this. Thanks again.

Teflon melts somewhere over 500°F, depending on the formulation. It won't be affected by the boil.

 

[samc]

It should prevent galling of the metal. It is good to use.

 

[cyclingpole]

I highly recommend you use teflon.

Some of those ball valves are not threaded properly which will ruin your pot, especially if you don't use teflon. It happened to me.

 

[HarkinBanks]

Teflon tape is to homebrewing as anti-seize is to working on a car. I still can't get over how cheap both products are compared to their incredible usefulness.

"It's gold Jerry, gold I tell ya."

 

[Captain_Bigelow]

Yes. I got the same pot about 2 months ago. I attached the valve as tightly as possible and it still leaked. So I contacted Northern Brewer where I purchased it from. They told me to use Teflon tape, which I did. It works fine and no leaks! (at least not so far).

 

[IrregularPulse]

Teflon tape should be used as common practice for any water/air tight seal IMO

 

[lanmarinc]

Welcome to Lanmar Inc - Teflon Tape for Industrial Packaging Applications - Teflon For Industry

 

[harley03]

Yes use the Teflon tape that way you will ensure you will not have any leaks.