EtOH Pro User Manual
Version 14 March 2025 | Part # 74-00050
Manufactured by ExtractCraft
105 South Sunset Street, Unit M, Longmont, CO, 80501 USA
Phone: 720-900-1177 | Customer Support: info@extractcraft.com
For the most recent version, visit: www.extractcraft.com/pages/user-manuals
Unpacking Instructions
- Start by unsealing the EtOH PRO outer carton. Handle the container with care, as it will be needed if the unit needs to be re-shipped. Do not discard the outer carton.
- Important: While unboxing the EtOH PRO, take care not to stress the tubing connections between the lid parts and the base unit.
- Remove the top cardboard tray containing the metal holsters and set it aside.
- Remove the two inner boxes containing the kettle, lids, jars, and power cord, and set them aside.
- The EtOH PRO is secured in a foam frame at the bottom of the box and is permanently connected to two vacuum sealing lids. Until the Kettle Lid Holster is installed, moving the unit and lid together can be cumbersome. To prevent damage during unpacking, keep the Kettle Lid on top of the EtOH Pro while unboxing.
- The EtOH PRO base weighs 38 lbs. It is recommended to have a second person assist with removing it from the box.
- Ensure the tubing connected parts are supported as the unit is removed from the box. Do not drag, stretch, or pinch the tubing. Avoid breaking off connectors with excessive force.
- Confirm all parts are accounted for. The included parts are detailed in the "Package Contents" section.
Setting Up EtOH PRO
- Using a Philips head screwdriver, attach the kettle lid holster to the back of the base unit. Align the holster's keyhole cutouts with the four pre-set protruding screws.
- Place the Kettle Lid in the Holster. This provides a safe storage location when the unit is not in use.
- If the One Gallon Reclaim Collector is present, skip steps 3 through 5.
- Attach the reclaim holster to the left side of the unit in the same manner as described in Step 1.
- Place the empty reclaim jar in the holster.
- Place the Reclaim Collector jar lid on the Reclaim jar. Screw it on loosely; it only needs to prevent the jar from falling off. Do not tighten.
- Screw the glass spit jar onto the metal cap. This is already connected to the base unit by a single tube.
- Using a carpenter's spirit level, adjust the feet to ensure the base unit is level. Confirm it has firm and level footing on a smooth surface.
- Connect the power cord to the back of the machine and plug it directly into an electrical socket (100-130 VAC; 650 Watt Max). Do not use an extension cord.
- Locate the power on/off switch on the back of the unit. Set it to "on" and confirm power delivery by the illumination of the green Start/Stop button.
- Program the Elevation / Altitude Settings as described in the "Altitude Tuning" section.
Package Contents
- EtOH PRO Base Unit: A compact, stainless steel appliance with a control panel.
- High Current Power Cord: A standard black power cord.
- Kettle: A black, cylindrical container designed for holding materials.
- Kettle Lid Holster: A black metal bracket with two rectangular openings for storing the kettle lid.
- Reclaim Collector Jar Holster: A black metal bracket designed to hold a reclaim jar securely.
- Reclaim Collector(s): Includes a 64 ounce glass jar (standard) and optionally a One Gallon stainless steel container. Both are included if the Gallon option was purchased.
- Spit Jar: A glass jar with a metal lid and tubing, used to collect expelled ethanol.
Images are not to scale.
System Components
Kettle Electrical Connection
The power and sensor connectors are designed for a secure and positive electrical connection. The user should feel a click when the Kettle is slid back on its rails, indicating a solid connection with power and the microprocessor.
[Image description: Shows the power and sensor connectors on the rear of the base unit.]
Lid Holster
When not in use, the Kettle Lid should be protected. The Kettle Lid Holster is located on the rear of the EtOH PRO.
[Image description: Shows the Kettle Lid resting securely in the holster on the rear of the EtOH PRO.]
Reclaim Contain & Holster
Precious ethanol is recycled and purified in this process. It is reclaimed in either a 64 ounce Mason brand Ball Jar, or a One Gallon stainless steel container. The standard Reclaim Lid is custom-designed to fit all wide mouth Ball jars. The Reclaim Holster prevents accidents by securing the reclaim jar and preventing it from tipping during use. The One Gallon Reclaim does not have a holder; if this option was purchased, the Reclaim Lid will be connected by tubing to the machine. Otherwise, the 64 ounce Ball Jar Reclaim Lid will be connected.
[Image description: Shows the 64 oz glass Reclaim Collector jar and the One Gallon stainless steel Reclaim Collector container with their respective lids.]
Spit Jar
The Spit Jar collects any ethanol expelled by the pumps. It is designed for ease of use and accessibility and should be emptied before starting a new process. This collected liquid is clean distilled ethanol.
[Image description: Shows the Spit Jar connected via tubing to the base unit.]
Controls | Kettle & Lid
Control Panel
The control panel features one knob and one button for all operations.
- EXTRACT: Vacuum is continuously controlled by the microprocessor. Heat is manually controlled with the knob throughout the Red range. The temperature variance is from 96°F to 105°F.
- PURGE: Vacuum pumps are off. Options include venting with heat or using an auxiliary external vacuum pump with the Purge Lid for post-processing. In the Green range, the temperature is between 80°F and 120°F.
Kettle & Glass Vacuum Lid
The kettle is designed for easy loading of tincture and harvesting of oil. It rests on stabilizing rails with guides built into the base. The glass lid allows continuous monitoring of the entire process, enabling users to accurately gauge when to stop for desired viscosity. The vacuum LID has a tool-less replaceable rim seal.
Altitude Tuning / Elevation Setting
For optimal performance, it is very important to program the elevation to the closest 1,000 feet. Once programmed, the elevation setting remains the default until manually changed.
Determining Elevation
Visit www.whatismyelevation.com
Steps to Program Elevation
- Plug in the EtOH PRO and wait for the Green Button to light up. This takes a few moments.
- Push and hold the Green Button for a full 10 seconds and release.
- If performed correctly, the Green Button will flash quickly 10 times.
- After the Green Button finishes flashing, push the button once for every 1,000 feet of elevation up to 8,000 feet:
- Sea Level: no button presses (wait 10 seconds)
- 1,000 feet: 1 time
- 2,000 feet: 2 times
- 3,000 feet: 3 times
- 4,000 feet: 4 times
- 5,000 feet: 5 times
- 6,000 feet: 6 times
- 7,000 feet: 7 times
- 8,000 feet: 8 times
- After entering your elevation, the EtOH PRO will pause for 10 seconds, and the Green Button will flash the same number of times as the button presses (once for every 1,000 feet entered).
- If the EtOH PRO repeats back the correct number of flashes, the elevation setting is complete and stored permanently. If it is incorrect, repeat steps 1-6.
Using EtOH PRO: Starting Extract Mode
Extract Mode separates ethanol from the tincture, recycling it and leaving the concentrate. When the process is complete, the concentrate remains in the kettle, and the ethanol is collected in the reclaim collector.
First-time users are advised to perform a test run with only ethanol to familiarize themselves with the machine's operation.
The EtOH PRO is tuned to operate optimally in an ambient temperature range of 72°F-75°F. Higher temperatures may adversely affect performance.
Step 1: Handling Tincture in the Kettle
Agitate the Tincture. Allow it to absorb room air for at least a minute after shaking or using a whisk or milk frother. This process requires atmospheric gasses for a quick boil. First-time users can plug in the Kettle before pouring in the Tincture. Commercial users may have different protocols. If the kettle needs adjustment after filling, place the lid on top before doing so. With the Kettle Lid in place, proceed to Step 2.
Step 2: Starting Extract Mode
EXTRACT: Heat is manually controlled by the Knob within the Red range (96°F - 105°F). Vacuum is controlled by the microprocessor with no user input. Turning the knob right increases temperature for more aggressive processing; turning it left is for less aggressive processing of thicker tinctures or to avoid bumping on hot starts.
- Confirm the plugs on the kettle are fully engaged. If not, the kettle will not generate heat.
- Confirm the reclaim jar lid and kettle lid are securely in place.
- Confirm the spit jar is empty and attached.
- Push the green illuminated 'START/STOP' button once to begin processing.
Important: Hot Start Considerations
Restarting the EtOH PRO while the unit and contents are warm can cause "bumping," where liquid splatters aggressively due to sudden vacuum and heat introduction. To avoid this, either wait for the unit to cool completely or restart with the control dial set to the lowest setting. Boiling should re-establish within 10 minutes, after which the dial can be adjusted to the desired performance level.
Step 3: Assuring Proper Vacuum Sealing
As soon as a cycle starts, the vacuum pumps begin evacuation. Potential leak points are the Reclaim Lid and the Kettle Lid. Hold the top of the reclaim jar lid centered. A good seal should allow you to lift the empty jar by its hoses. The outer threaded ring is not necessary under vacuum but can be used to seal the jar before transfer. Ensure the Kettle Lid is held firmly by vacuum; simple downward hand pressure may suffice. If issues arise, check the cleanliness and condition of the Kettle Lid seal. The entire machine should achieve a sealed vacuum within 15-30 seconds, with pumping continuing until process pressure is reached.
Using EtOH PRO: Running Extract Mode
Step 4: Running Extract Mode
Once vacuum is established, small bubbles should appear quickly. Throughput in the reclaim jar may take up to 20 minutes on the highest setting; lower temperatures will take longer. As the process progresses, observe steady progress and increasing volume in the reclaim jar as the kettle level reduces.
If processing more than 1750 ml at a time, stop the process to clear the reclaim jar when it becomes full (approximately 1750 ml or 60 fluid ounces). Users of the Gallon Reclaim Collector can skip Step 5.
[Image description: A Gallon Reclaim Collector.]
Step 5: Switching/Emptying Reclaim Jar Mid-Process (only necessary if processing more than 1750ml at a time)
For users of the 64oz glass collection jar, it is advised to replace a nearly full collector with an empty one. When vacuum is released, more ethanol may drain from the condenser. If there isn't enough headspace, overflow can be pulled into the system, which is highly undesirable.
Users of the Gallon Collector do not need to stop and can ignore this section.
- Push and release the Green Button once to stop the process. This automatically releases the vacuum.
- Vacuum bleed-off takes up to 20 seconds.
- Remove the lid from the Reclaim jar and empty it or replace it with a clean empty jar.
- Place the Reclaim Jar in the Holster, and the Reclaim Lid on top of the jar.
- Turn the Knob to the Left and return to STEP 2.
Important: Hot Start Considerations
Restarting processing with hot contents can cause "bumping," where large bubbles burst and splash. In restarting a paused process, the heat will need to be significantly reduced. After about 10 minutes of mild warming, the process can be re-adjusted for desired performance.
Step 6: Deciding When to Stop the Process
You decide when to stop the extracting process. The process must be stopped manually, so monitor the EtOH PRO unit during use to ensure your desired level of consistency.
Step 7: How to Stop the Process
- Push and release the Green Button once to stop the process. This automatically releases the vacuum.
- Vacuum bleed-off takes up to 20 seconds.
- Remove the Kettle Lid from the Kettle and secure it in the Lid Holster.
- Slide the Kettle away from its connectors, towards the front of the machine, to disengage.
- Harvest the extract from the kettle using a silicone spatula.
- Avoid scratching the Kettle coating.
If you stopped the process too early, you can place the kettle back in place, start the machine, and run it a little longer until you achieve the desired outcome.
Using EtOH PRO: Purge Mode
Purge mode is used for post-processing concentrates to further purge residual ethanol content to meet desired end product requirements. This is not always necessary, but it can be a useful tool for achieving higher stability and lower residual ethanol more expediently.
Important: If oils and concentrates are placed directly in the kettle for purge mode, they become very difficult to collect. Use a heat-safe container or a platinum-cured silicone mat in the kettle before using purge mode.
ExtractCraft does not make recommendations regarding specific containers or mats and users assume all responsibility for their use and safety.
Purge Mode Controls
Purge mode is controlled by the second half of the dial arc, depicted in green. This range represents temperatures from approximately 80°F to 120°F.
Using Purge Mode as a Hot Plate (heat only, no vacuum)
- Place the concentrate in an appropriate silicone container at the bottom of the kettle.
- Slide the kettle into place, ensuring it is securely plugged into the base connectors.
- Use the dial to set the desired temperature in the Green [Purge] range.
- Push the green illuminated button once to begin heating.
- The EtOH PRO will continue to deliver heat to the base of the kettle without vacuum until manually turned off by pushing the green button or turning off the machine's power.
Using Purge Mode as a Vacuum Oven (auxiliary lid and pump required)
- Place the concentrate in an appropriate silicone container at the bottom of the kettle.
- Slide the kettle into place, ensuring it is securely plugged into the base connectors.
- Use the dial to set the desired temperature in the Green [Purge] range.
- Push the green illuminated button once to begin heating.
- Place the Purge Lid on the kettle.
- Using appropriate hose, attach an oil-less auxiliary diaphragm vacuum pump directly to the Purge Lid and pull the desired vacuum level for purging.
Note: If using a cylinder-operated pump with a lubricated crankcase, a Cold Trap is required between the pump and the purge lid to prevent pump oil from fouling the ethanol and to keep debris from being sucked into the kettle.
ExtractCraft Purge Lids come with complete technical instructions. Users are responsible for tubing, hoses, and vacuum connections for auxiliary equipment. Consulting services are available.
Care Instructions
Caring for the EtOH
Seals
Dirty seals can cause vacuum leaks, excessive pumping, and slow operation. New seals are inexpensive and available online. The Kettle seal can be cleaned with 99% Isopropyl alcohol and a soft cloth; avoid strong detergents or alkaloid cleaners. Reclaim seals typically do not need cleaning but can be cleaned with Ethanol or Isopropyl alcohol if soiled. It is recommended to have extra seals on hand for production facilities.
Kettle
To keep the kettle lid clean, wipe the inside well after every extraction before condensed ethanol dries and residue hardens. The Kettle can be hand-washed with a non-abrasive detergent and soft cloth; do not submerge or put it in a dishwasher. The Kettle Lid can be cleaned with alcohol and a soft cloth. The silicone Kettle Lid Seal may be removed for cleaning, but the rest of the lid should not be disassembled.
Important: Damage to the Kettle caused by hard utensils is not covered under warranty. Use silicone and non-scratch implements.
Collectors
For both 64oz Glass and One Gallon Collectors, seals are a common wear item. The 64oz Lid comes with the seal in place. The Gallon Collector Lid Seal is interchangeable with the Kettle Seal. Seals should be replaced as needed. The Spit Jar is not under vacuum and requires no seal attention.
Base (metal enclosure)
Clean the outside surfaces of the base with mild detergent. Stubborn residue can be removed with Isopropyl alcohol. Never use Acetone near any ExtractCraft products.
Draining the EtOH
If the unit will not be used for a period after a run, it is suggested to drain it to prevent condensed ethanol from remaining in the plumbing.
- With the Kettle removed, turn the Knob all the way to the left (in the Extract range).
- Push the Green Button and start pumping.
- Lift one side of the EtOH PRO about 10 inches, hold it briefly, then set it down.
- Repeat this side-to-side motion a few times.
Any excess ethanol in the system will be ejected into the Spit Jar.
Technical Specifications
Electrical Requirements
- 100-130 VAC, 50-60 HZ
- 650W @ 120 VAC, 5.5 AMPS
Thermal
Parameter | Specification |
---|---|
Maximum ambient temperature for processing | ≤ 80°F |
Processing temperature range | 96°F ~ 110°F |
Purging temperature range | 80°F - 120°F |
Processing and purging temperature ranges may vary due to differences in ambient atmospheric conditions and elevation. At the end of a process, if the kettle is run dry for any amount of time, a minor temperature range deviation may occur.
Programmed Altitude Range
Sea level to 8000 feet
Mechanical
Dimensions: 24W x 23D x 14H
Mass: 38 lb
Diagrams illustrate the unit's dimensions and form factor.
Resources
Here are some great resources to learn more about ethanol extraction and ExtractCraft equipment:
- ExtractCraft Website: www.extractcraft.com
- ExtractCraft YouTube Channel: Lots of how-to and technical support videos. www.youtube.com/c/ExtractCraftVideos
- Blog For Ethanol Extraction: A great place to learn many techniques, uses of equipment, and general knowledge (wide range of topics, 21 years and older only). extractcrafter.com
- Great Facebook User Groups:
- "ExtractCraft Users Group" - Main Group: Unrestricted content group (wide range of topics, 21 years and older only). www.facebook.com/groups/921284877977347/
- "ExtractCraft Culinary and Aroma Extraction Arts" Group: Content restricted to culinary and aroma extraction subjects. www.facebook.com/groups/183294065570985/
Products & Options
The ExtractCraft Source Turbo Complete Set provides home users with the ability to create kitchen extractions. This counter-top appliance is about the size of a coffee maker. The set includes the Source Turbo extractor, a Buchner filter funnel, an Erlenmeyer flask, and two grades of filter paper. This product has been a top seller for a decade at ExtractCraft.
Has your process improved to large batches? Do you want to avoid issues created in re-starting an extraction? The One Gallon Reclaim Container doubles the volume of containment for the EtOH PRO.
ExtractCraft offers a variety of silicone tools and containers. Batch users can appreciate multi-colored silicone puck containers or a wide flat self-sealing silicone box. Wide coated paper work mats and silicone items are also available. While not found in local kitchen stores, they offer significant benefits. ExtractCraft also offers a variety of silicone spatulas.
Additional items include Hemp Shirts, Hemp Ball Caps, Hemp Pom Beanies, Stickers & Schwag.
[Image descriptions: Images show the Source Turbo Complete Set, various ExtractCraft silicone tools and containers, and ExtractCraft branded apparel including hemp shirts, ball caps, and beanies, as well as stickers.]
Troubleshooting
The EtOH PRO is tuned to operate in an environment with an ambient temperature of 72°F - 75°F. Higher temperature environments may adversely affect its performance.
PROBLEM | RECOMMENDED ACTIONS |
---|---|
Cannot Achieve Vacuum |
|
Absence of Bubbles / Not Boiling |
|
Slow Boil / Low Production |
|
Aggressive Fast Boil |
|
Green Button Flashing Error Messages |
|
Continuous Pumping / Slow Production / Vacuum System Leak |
|
Limited Warranty
This limited warranty provides specific legal rights that may vary by state. The full warranty is available online at www.extractcraft.com/warranty or in the provided documentation. ExtractCraft warrants that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship during the warranty period. Implied warranties, including merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to the duration of this express warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranty duration.
Who May Use This Warranty?
This limited warranty extends only to the original consumer purchaser. It does not transfer to subsequent owners. Caution is advised when purchasing from Amazon and eBay; purchases from sellers not listed as "AUTHORIZED SELLERS" will not be covered by the ExtractCraft warranty or eligible for service. ExtractCraft reserves the right to update the Authorized Sellers list.
What Does This Warranty Cover?
At its sole discretion, ExtractCraft will repair or replace any EtOH unit for manufacturing defects for 12 months from the shipment date, provided it was purchased from ExtractCraft or an authorized dealer.
What Does This Warranty Not Cover?
This warranty does not cover damage from transportation, storage, improper use, failure to follow instructions, lack of preventive maintenance, modifications, unauthorized repair, normal wear and tear, or external causes like accidents or abuse.
What Is The Period Of Coverage?
The warranty starts on the purchase date and lasts for one year. It is not extended by repair or replacement. Availability may change but changes are not retroactive.
How Do You Obtain Warranty Service?
To obtain warranty service, email Customer Service at info@extractcraft.com during the warranty period to obtain a Return to Manufacturer Authorization (RMA) number. No service will be provided without an RMA number. Any service requiring shipment to ExtractCraft will need an RMA record.
Caution: Purchases from Amazon and eBay from unauthorized sellers are not covered and not eligible for service.
Authorized Dealers & Distributors
- All bricks & mortar retail store sellers.
- BoB HQ - www.bobslethbridge.ca
- Best Value Vac - www.shopbvv.com
- California Grow - www.californiagrowshops.com/
- DL Wholesale - www.dlwholesale.com
- ExtractCraft factory store on eBay - stores.ebay.com/extractcraft
All other Amazon and eBay sellers are UNAUTHORIZED and will not be covered by warranty or serviced by ExtractCraft.
Operational Guidelines & User Safety
⚠️ Attention: Please follow these safety guidelines
- Allow any metal parts to completely cool before handling.
- Always ensure there is no ethanol spilled or present on the electrical plug connecting the kettle to the main body. This area must be checked and kept dry at all times.
- Place the EtOH PRO well away from heat sources, direct sunlight, or places where heat may become concentrated.
- Inspect all parts and connections and confirm proper fitting prior to each use.
- Do not operate the EtOH Pro if any parts are damaged, flaking, show excessive wear, or appear unsafe in any way.
- Never operate the machine without the spit jar attached.
- Never overflow the reclaim jar.
- Keep the base of the unit away from any water exposure at all times. Do not immerse or expose the base of the unit into water or liquid of any kind.
- There is no automatic shut-off for the EtOH PRO; you must turn off power when not in operation.
- The EtOH PRO will vibrate during operation. Objects may slide off, and the unit could shift position. Place on a flat, non-slip surface where the unit cannot slide.
⚠️ SOLVENT: Only food grade ethanol
WARNING: Only food-grade, non-denatured ethanol may be used in the Source. Do not use ethanol with any kind of adulterants like Xylene or similar. Do not use methanol (wood alcohol) or any other solvents, as they may be poisonous, lead to sickness or death, or create fire and explosion hazards.
⚠️ PLANT EXTRACT WARNING
WARNING: Some plant extracts are potentially dangerous due to the toxicity of concentrated chemical components and may be harmful or even deadly if ingested or absorbed through skin or membranes. The flash point of each plant extract varies. Many common oils are classified as flammable liquids. Botanical oils valued for aroma-therapeutic qualities may cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other health problems. Users must determine the hazards and handling requirements of the particular oils they extract.
⚠️ Alcohol is extremely flammable !
Always use caution when handling alcohol and keep it well away from any kind of flame or ignition source. The safest storage location is your freezer.
Empty the reclaim before it overflows. It is wise to drain the reclaim collector after use.
For the best result and operation, use 190-proof (95%) or higher food grade ethanol.