Couple of hints for you: #1 - Try to boil all 5 gallons if you can. I use two burners on my stove, but I also bought a turkey fryer that I'm going to use for the next batch. If you can't, boil 2.5 gallons with half the total amount of extract. At the end of the boil, add the second half of the extract. #2 - If you don't have/use a wort chiller, get one. Its a lot easier than an ice bath and much quicker too. You can make your own for about $20 bucks. If anyone is interested, I can post a picture of mine with some instructions (you'll need zero technical skills). #3 - Pay some attention to your water. For the most part, you should be okay using city water, just bring it to a boil first to drive off the chlorine. If you are brewing a lighter brew with extracts, use distilled water, as the minerals in the water are already in the extract.