Handcrafted in USA

Selecting an Evaporator

Not sure where to begin when it comes to selecting the perfect evaporator? No worries. You are in the right place. We are here to help!

Factors to Consider When Purchasing an Evaporator

  Space

Smoky Lake evaporators are so efficient, you will be able to achieve higher productivity and efficiency in a smaller footprint compared to our competitors.

 Pan Style

When selecting a pan style, you may consider each pan’s evaporation rate, the types of accessories offered/included, and the pan’s method of operation.

Understanding Pan Styles:

  Number of Taps

Be sure to consider future expansion! Let’s choose an evaporator that has the capacity to grow with you! Our hobby evaporators have an estimated “tap rating” which varies based on the pan size and style.

Time

If your time is limited, process sap faster with a larger size, or an upgraded pan style. (See our evaporator efficiency ratings measured in gallons evaporated per hour [GPH].) You can also decrease boiling time by using a Reverse Osmosis System. Read Saving Time and Fuel Cost With Reverse Osmosis to see how these systems save boiling time.

Fuel Type

Firewood is typically a favored fuel source due to its abundance in a sugarbush. However, our oil-fired and gas-fired options are convenient, ash-free, and include the benefit of a quicker start up and shut down.

Budget

Customize your evaporator and increase efficiency as your budget allows. Also, rest assured that Smoky Lake evaporators retain their value VERY WELL. They are a very sound investment! We also offer FREE shipping in the continental USA!

BUYER’S GUIDE VIDEO

Unboxing the Imposter: Smoky Lake Vs Vevor

Beware! Fraudulent Companies Are Trying To Fool You by Using Our Name as Bait in Their Advertising. Protect Yourself and Your Investments by Purchasing Directly on SmokyLakeMaple.com or From a Trusted Local Dealer.

SEE VIDEO

BUYER’S GUIDE VIDEO

How Does Metal Thickness Affect Boiling Efficiency?

Check out the dramatic impact your evaporator pan’s metal thickness can have on boiling efficiency by comparing a Smoky Lake Pan (22 gauge) to a competitor pan (16 gauge).

SEE VIDEO
Buyer's Guide. Unboxing the Imposter. Smoky Lake vs Vevor
Buyer’s Guide, Metal Efficiency

Compare All Our Evaporators to Find the Perfect Fit.

StarCat™
FROM $1,291.48
SHOP
Dauntless™
FROM $1,799.23
SHOP
Corsair™
FROM $3,315.00
SHOP
Silverplate™
FROM $10,189.05
SHOP
Gas-Fired
FROM $1,372.75
SHOP
Liberator™
FROM $8,633.00
SHOP
Pan Size

Tolerance is within 1/8".

16″ x 30″
20″ x 48″

Min 2′ x 3′
Max 30″ x 12′

Min 2′ x 6′
Max 3′ x 12′

16″ x 30″
2′ x 4′

Min 2″ x 6″
Max 3′ x 12′

Pan Type

Each arch is compatible with different pan style options.

Flat
Divided

Flat
Divided
All-In-One Hybrid

Flat
Divided
Hybrid
Drop Flue
Raised Flue

Drop Flue
Raised Flue

Flat
Divided

Drop Flue
Raised Flue

Tap Rating

These are estimates. Reverse Osmosis will increase the number of taps your evaporator can handle.

3 – 30 taps

Flat or Divided Pan
10 – 55 taps

All-In-One Hybrid
30 – 95 taps

Varies by size and options.

Varies by size and options.

This unit is most commonly used as a finisher.

Varies by size and options.

Evaporation Rate
Average number of gallons evaporated per hour while boiling.
5 – 8+ GPH

Flat or Divided Pan

9 – 11+ GPH

All-In-One Hybrid

15 – 20+ GPH

Up to 210+ GPH

Varies by size and pan style

Up to 468+ GPH

Varies by size and pan style

Up to 12 GPH

Varies by size and liquid depth

Up to 220+ GPH


Varies by size

Fuel Type

Each evaporator is designed to be used with a specific fuel source.

Wood

Wood

Wood

Wood

Propane or Natural Gas

Propane, Natural Gas, or Oil