Govee Bluetooth Hygrometer Thermometer, Humidity Temperature Gauge with Remote Monitor, Large LCD Display, Notification Alert with Max Min Records, 2 Years Data Storage Export, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y36FWTT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M4ZMAATNR0VVSE2PTC7G?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Been there. My first two barrels came from Etsy as gifts. I struggled with both. For two months. Spigot leaked. Barrel seams leaked. Rings tarnished and one ended up rusting. Two rings actually slid off. That caused the wood to loosen and booze started literally pouring from the bottom. It’s frustrating as hell. And a leak at the hoop is worse because the liquid can move under the ring and it’s impossible to find the source.
If you want this exact barrel to work, wax is your best step to stop the leak. Don’t use beeswax, it’s a pain in the ass. It’s too inconsistent trying to melt and apply and reheat, etc. Instead, use this: American Barrel Wax for Sealing Leaks in Wooden Barrels 2oz | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CFZ7B1P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_92QQQE5YWW03KFKDCK90?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 Let the barrel dry, get a hunk and just rub it in. And keep rubbing it in. And then wipe it down and refill to see if the leak stops.
My recommendation? Return or retire it and get something better. I threw in the towel with my original two barrels, turned those into showpieces on my cabinet and bought a 2L barrel from RedHeadBarrels.com, an American cooperage. On top of videos and clear cut instructions, they have customer service for questions and warranties for bad products. 👍. My 2L barrel was roughly the same price, $ 59.99 but it’s been a much different and much more enjoyable experience.
You probably want to try getting your hands on some barrel wax.
https://www.amazon.com/Sealing-THOUSAND-OAKS-BARREL-Kombucha/dp/B087YKVK2H