Equipment Used for Maple Syrup Tapping

Tapping maple syrup can be accomplished with common household tools.

Maple syrup is made by collecting sap from maple trees and then heating it, causing the mixture to become darker in color, sweeter and more concentrated. Simple but reliable equipment is required to tap maple syrup.

Tapping Method

To tap a tree for sap, drill a hole about 2 inches deep into the tree, 2 to 4 feet above the ground. Place a spout in the hole and hang a collection bucket on the spout. Retrieve the sap at least every two to three days. Heat the sap slowly and boil it to produce maple syrup.

Types of Equipment

Use a drill with 7/16- or 1/2-inch bit to make a hole in the tree. The collection spout can be metal or plastic and must fit into the hole. A plastic bucket, plastic bag or collection tubing can be used to collect sap. If you are using an open container such as a bucket, cover the bucket to ensure debris does not get into the sap. A pan is needed to heat the syrup as well as a wool filter to remove any debris after heating.

Considerations

Use a food thermometer to ensure that sap boils and becomes syrup, which happens when syrup reaches 7 degrees above the boiling point of water. Since syrup must be placed in containers when it is hot -- at least 180 Fahrenheit -- to prevent spoilage, use heat-resistant packaging.

References

• Michigan Maple Syrup Association: Homemade Maple Syrup

Resources

• The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority