Buying Beer On Tap: A Guide To Getting Started

There are many options available for those looking to buy beer on tap. For those looking to install a tap at home, there are a variety of kegerators, jockey boxes, and other draft dispensers to choose from. Kegerators are modified refrigerators with a tap that leads to a keg inside, while jockey boxes are portable coolers with coils that lead to a keg. These options vary in price, with kegerators costing around $500 and dispensers ranging from $50 to thousands of dollars. For those looking for a more simple option, there are also various beer taps and pumps available for purchase. When it comes to buying beer on tap, it's important to consider the type of beer you prefer, the capacity you need, and the features that are important to you, such as portability or additional accessories.

Kegerators vs jockey boxes

Kegerators and jockey boxes are both beer dispensing systems, but they differ in functionality and design. A kegerator is a dedicated refrigerator for dispensing kegged beer, while a jockey box is a portable, compact system that can be used for outdoor events.

Kegerators

Kegerators are stationary appliances designed to store and dispense kegs of beer. They are commonly used in homes, bars, or restaurants and provide a reliable and consistent way to enjoy draft beer. Kegerators typically have precise temperature controls, allowing you to maintain the perfect serving temperature for your beer. They also offer convenient storage for kegs, eliminating the need for additional coolers. Kegerators are built to last for many years and often have a large capacity, making them suitable for those who want to have various beer options on tap. However, they are generally more expensive than jockey boxes due to their features and cooling mechanisms.

Jockey Boxes

Jockey boxes are portable and compact beer dispensing systems that are ideal for outdoor events like picnics, backyard parties, and tailgates. They are highly portable and do not require electrical power to operate, making them a convenient option for on-the-go draft beer. Beer is passed through a cooling coil or plate submerged in ice, ensuring that it is served at the recommended temperature. Jockey boxes are generally less expensive than kegerators, making them a more affordable option for those who frequently host outdoor events. However, they have limited storage capacity and require frequent ice refills, which can be inconvenient for longer gatherings.

Choosing the Right Option

When deciding between a kegerator and a jockey box, it is important to consider your specific needs, budget, and intended use. If you prioritise portability and convenience for outdoor events, a jockey box may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more permanent, long-lasting solution with greater storage capacity, a kegerator could be the preferred option. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on your individual preferences and requirements.

How to choose the right beer tap

The right beer tap can make all the difference when it comes to pouring the perfect pint. Whether you're a bartender, a homebrewer, or just a beer enthusiast, there are several factors to consider when choosing a beer tap. From the type of faucet to the system setup, here's a guide to help you select the best beer tap for your needs.

Type of Faucet

The faucet is the component of the beer tap system through which the beer is dispensed into your glass. The quality of the faucet can significantly impact the taste and texture of the beer. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a faucet:

• Material: Stainless steel faucets are highly recommended due to their resistance to corrosion and ease of cleaning. While chrome-plated brass faucets are cheaper, they may not be worth the hassle as they are more prone to rust and contamination.
• Sealing Type: Forward-sealing faucets protect the beer from oxygen exposure and bacterial growth by sealing the beer flow downstream of the lever. On the other hand, reverse-sealing faucets can cause beer to dry inside the tap, leading to sticky operation and potential bacterial growth.
• Specialty Faucets: If you plan to serve nitro beers or stouts, consider investing in a nitro tap or a stout faucet. These faucets have restrictor plates that help create a dense, creamy head, characteristic of these beer styles.

System Setup

The type of beer tap system you choose will depend on the scale of your operation and the specific needs of your establishment. Here are some common system setups to consider:

• Direct Draw System: This system is ideal for small-scale operations, such as home bars or small commercial bars. It typically involves a kegerator, where the keg is stored in a refrigerated cabinet directly beneath the tap.
• Long Draw System: This system is suitable for larger establishments with a high volume of customers. It employs glycol-cooled lines to maintain the beer's temperature over long distances from the keg to the faucet.
• Portable Systems: If you require mobility, consider a jockey box, which is essentially a portable kegerator, or a flash chiller, which offers instant cooling in a compact format.

Other Considerations

In addition to the type of faucet and system setup, here are some other factors to keep in mind when choosing a beer tap:

• Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular maintenance and cleaning are crucial to ensuring the taste and quality of the beer. Look for systems that are easy to disassemble and clean, with components that can be sanitised to prevent bacteria buildup.
• Space and Location: Consider the space where the beer tap will be situated. Ensure that you have enough room for all the necessary components and that the location provides easy access for staff and maintenance.
• Cost: Beer tap systems can range in price from $50 to thousands of dollars. Set a budget that takes into account not only the initial cost of the system but also the ongoing expenses, such as replacement parts and local keg prices.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right beer tap that meets your specific needs and helps you pour the perfect pint every time.

Beer tap maintenance

Maintaining a beer tap is essential to ensure the best quality beer. Here are some detailed instructions on beer tap maintenance:

Cleaning

It is important to keep the outside of your kegerator clean. Use normal cleaning agents and some elbow grease to keep the exterior of your keg fridge sparkling. However, it is even more important to clean the inside, especially the beer lines. Beer lines can collect deposits of yeast and sugar over time, which can negatively affect the taste of your beer and cause excess foaming. Clean your beer lines regularly, ideally after every half keg, to avoid these problems. Beer line cleaning kits are available, which use air pressure to push a mixture of water and cleaning solution through the lines.

Pressure

Maintaining the correct pressure is critical for successful beer dispensing. When the faucet is opened, the CO2 in the tank pushes the beer out of the keg and then fills the empty space. This exchange ensures steady pressure inside the keg, keeping the beer carbonated. The CO2 tank must be stored upright, or it won't work properly and may damage the regulator. The correct pressure depends on the type of beer. Most US-produced ales and lagers should be dispensed at 10-12 PSI, while stouts and nitrogen-dispensed beers are usually at 25-30 PSI. If the pressure is too high, simply adjust the regulator to a lower level and draw off a few pitchers to clear the lines. If the pressure is too low, check that the tank is not empty and is turned on, and that there are no obstructions in the air line. If you can't identify the problem, you may need to replace the regulator, as they wear down over time.

Temperature

The temperature of the beer is also key to maintaining its quality. The ideal temperature for serving most beers is between 36-38 degrees Fahrenheit. If the beer is too cold, ice can form and cause cloudiness. If it is too warm, the beer can become flat. The temperature of the beer lines is also important, as they should be kept at the proper serving temperature for each beer.

Glassware

Even the glassware can impact the quality of the beer. Glasses should be cleaned with specific bar glass chemicals, as standard detergents can leave a film behind, causing the beer to lose its head. Grease deposits and lint from towels can also cause the beer to go flat. Glasses should also not be frozen, as this can cause the beer to foam up and can numb customers' taste buds.

Other Tips

• Regularly inspect and maintain carbon dioxide cylinders, as rust and other contaminants may build up inside and get into your beer if they are being refilled instead of replaced.
• Always flush glassware with clean water and drain before pouring beer.
• Beer tap systems should be cleaned regularly and thoroughly to prevent yeast and sediment build-up, which can cause the beer to turn cloudy.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembly and maintenance.

Cost of buying and running a beer tap

The cost of buying and running a beer tap varies depending on the type of system you choose and the number of taps you require.

Kegerators

A kegerator is a modified refrigerator with a tap that leads to a keg inside. Kegerators offer draft beer on hand whenever you want it and can keep beer fresh for up to four months. They also ensure the beer is kept at the proper temperature, which can have a dramatic effect on taste and spoilage.

A kegerator generally costs around $500, but you will also need to purchase couplers and regulators to attach the line to the keg and regulate the pressure forcing the beer out of the line. These cost around $30 per coupler and $50 per regulator. A basic 6-tap system starts at about $2,500, but there are also single-tap options available for a lower price.

Jockey Boxes

A jockey box is a portable glorified cooler with coils. A beer line leads liquids from the keg, through the coils, and into your glass. Jockey boxes are relatively cheap, with prices starting at around $200 for a basic model.

Other Dispensers

There are also other types of draft dispensers available, such as the QuickTap Cornelius and tabletop dispensers, which are easy to store in a fridge or take with you on the go. These usually work with adjustable carbon dioxide pressure and cost around $150-$200.

Installation

The installation of a draft system is typically performed by local companies specializing in draft systems and prices run about $700-$1000 per tap installed.

Running Costs

In addition to the initial cost of the equipment, there are also ongoing costs associated with running a beer tap. These include the cost of the kegs, replacement parts, and maintenance. Kegerators, for example, require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep the beer tasting fresh and consistent.

Self-Serve Beer Systems

For businesses, self-serve beer systems offer benefits such as reduced waste and staffing challenges. The cost of a self-serve beer system will depend on the number of taps, the type of taps (table units or beer wall taps), administration monitors/full EPOS, network cabling and power sockets, and license and support fees. Fixed costs for self-serve beer taps can range from $2100 for a few taps to $3500 for larger projects. Table units can range from $1000 to $9000, while beer wall taps can cost up to $1300 per tap. Administration monitors/full EPOS systems can range from $350 to $3000, and license and support fees can start at $21 per month per tap.

How to install a beer tap

Planning

Before you start installing a beer tap, it's important to plan the space for your tap. This can be at a bar or set up behind a wall. You will need enough room to set up a refrigerator or freezer to keep the beer refrigerated. Plan ahead for the keg dimensions and get the right-sized keg for your space.

Layout

Lay out the beer lines and CO2 canister. The canister doesn't have to sit inside the refrigerator. Run a line from the CO2 canister to the keg and another line from the keg to the beer tap. You will need to drill two holes in the refrigerator wall to run the lines in and out. Gather all your canisters, regulators, lines, couplers, and tap and lay them out in the order you want them connected.

Drilling

Drill holes in the refrigerator wall for the lines. Use a larger drill bit to make a hole the same size as your tubing. Insert gaskets into the holes and thread the tubes through. Next, drill a hole for the beer tap. Measure the dimensions of your beer tap and cut the hole to the required size.

Assembly

Assemble the beer tap by sliding it through the tap hole and fastening it with a retaining nut from the bottom. Connect the regulator to the CO2 tank by screwing it into the top threads. Attach the CO2 hose leading to the keg and secure it with a clamp.

Connections

Connect the coupler to the top of the keg by inserting it into the keg bung and turning it to secure. Connect the CO2 line to one side of the coupler and the beer line hose to the other side, securing both with clamps. Run the hose from the refrigerator to the underside of the tap and secure it with a hose clamp.

Testing

Open the CO2 canister and adjust the pressure as needed by opening the tap and conducting a few "test" pours. The amount of pressure required will depend on your preferences for head and foam.

Frequently asked questions