Pot Sizes

Stainless usually scorches more, unless there is some sort of liner on the bottom, like a copper plate.

 

Damn. I think I paid like 80$ for 6.5 gallons @ my LHBS.

 

Just make sure to clean it and then "season" it by filling it with water and boiling for 15min.
That'll start the oxidation process, turning it a dull grey. Just don't scrub it off while washing.

 

Don't even need to fill it. A couple inches of water in the bottom, boiled with the lid on, will do it. No need to spend time bringing a whole pot of water to a boil.

 

Unless you need another one for sparge water (you always do...: ))

 

True, but not every pot has a lid. Most of the bigger pots I've seen for sale on line do NOT include a lid, but want to sell you one for 25% of the price of the pot, plus shipping!

 

The theory is that the oxidation layer protects the possible "leeching" of Al from getting into your wort (therefore preventing illnesses of certain types)
Search the forums for the whole discussion.
I'm in the camp that building and maintaining the Ox layer is more than enough insurance against any health issues (mainly because I know enough food industry people who think the same way).

As to cleaning and maintenance of an Al pot, you had it right above. I really just have to rinse my pot. After brewing, as long as I get to it ASAP.

All that said, I'd probably prefer SS if it wasn't so outrageously expensive above 5 gallons (though deals can be found on amazon and elsewhere).