How to clean past year's buildup on bottom of pan?

[mojo]

I have a copper divided pan that has sugar sand or niter (or whatever it's called) buildup on the bottom of the last chamber where I draw off. What's the best way to get rid of this stuff? -hard to get off with a regular abrasive side of a sponge. Vinegar? Acid cleaner? Help!

[bowhunter]

I had good luck boiling with vinegar and water last year. It still took a little bit of scrubbing, but most of the niter was removed. Some people on the forum fill the pan with sap and let it sit for weeks until the sap turns to vinegar. I don't know the exact procedure, but I believe they're happy with the results.