Cleaning evaporator pan gaskets

[Kennebec]

Last year when boiling I had a boilover and the gakets that seal the pan got blackened and stiff. I was wondering if anyone has cleaning advice for these or if I will need to buy replacements. Your input would be much appreciated!

[happy thoughts]

The blackened and stiff may just be thick burned syrup left to dry. Assuming your gasket is made of fiberglass you could probably try soaking and washing them. That should dissolve the syrup out. Then dry it well. Some stove gasket has a graphite coating. That may or may not wash away but even if it does I'd think you could still get a little more use out of it. Of course you could save yourself the trouble and just replace it all, but imho washing it may be worth a try.