Oisin Foster
If you're looking to buy a nitrogen beer tap, you'll be joining a growing number of bars, restaurants and home enthusiasts who are turning to nitro taps to deliver a unique drinking experience. Nitro taps produce a smoother, creamier and less fizzy beer than traditional CO2 taps, thanks to the use of nitrogen gas and a specialised tap system. The small bubbles and thick head created by the nitro tap enhance the flavours and aromas of the beer, making it a popular choice for stouts and porters.
When it comes to purchasing a nitro tap system, there are a few options available. Online retailers such as Amazon, Kegco and Kegworks offer a range of nitrogen regulators, cylinders and taps, with prices starting from around $60. If you're looking for a more integrated solution, companies like Micro Matic and UBC offer nitro taps that are designed specifically for dispensing nitrogenated beer. These taps can be purchased from specialist kegging equipment retailers and typically range in price from $75 to $150.
It's important to note that nitrogen gas is stored at a much higher pressure than CO2 and requires a different type of cylinder. When purchasing a nitro tap system, ensure that you select a reputable supplier of food-grade nitrogen gas and that you have the correct regulator for the beer gas cylinder.
What You'll Learn
Online retailers
There are several online retailers that sell nitrogen beer taps and equipment. Here is a list of some popular options:
Amazon
Amazon offers a wide range of nitrogen regulators for beer taps, with various brands and models available. The prices vary, but you can find options starting from $32. Some products even come with free delivery, making it a convenient option.
Beverage Factory
Beverage Factory is an online store that offers a range of kegging equipment, including stout faucets. Their products are generally affordable, with prices starting from $75, and one customer has praised their quality and performance.
Micro Matic
Micro Matic specialises in beer dispensing equipment, offering a stainless steel nitro faucet that is perfect for both commercial and home use. Their tap is designed to produce a creamy and frothy texture, enhancing the flavour of the beverage.
UBC
UBC offers a budget-friendly option with their Nitro Stout Faucet. This tap is easy to install and use, making it ideal for those new to nitro taps.
Local Homebrew Stores
Some local homebrew stores may also offer nitrogen/CO2 blends and equipment for sale. These stores can be a convenient option to source gas and other supplies, and they may even offer exchanges for gas cylinders.
Welding Suppliers
Welding suppliers often carry beverage-grade CO2 and N2 gases, as well as the necessary equipment. They can be a good source for those looking for a variety of gas mixtures to suit different end uses.
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Gas supply companies
- Gas Cylinders: Gas supply companies offer nitrogen and carbon dioxide (CO2) cylinders or tanks that are specifically designed for beer dispensing systems. These cylinders contain high-pressure nitrogen gas, typically at 30-40 psi, which is crucial for achieving the desired creamy texture in nitro beers. The cylinders are made of steel or aluminum and are available in different sizes, such as 5-pound, 10-pound, or larger capacities.
- Gas Mixtures: When purchasing gas from a supplier, it's important to get the right blend of nitrogen and CO2 for your nitro tap system. The standard blend used in nitro beers is typically 70-75% nitrogen (N2) and 25-30% CO2. This mixture is crucial for achieving the desired cascading effect, creamy mouthfeel, and thick head associated with nitro beers.
- Compatibility and Safety: Ensure that the gas cylinders and regulators provided by the gas supply company are compatible with your nitro tap system. Nitrogen is stored at a higher pressure than CO2 and usually has a different type of connection (female vs. male). Check the safety specifications and ensure your equipment is rated to handle the maximum pressure of the gas cylinders.
- Local Suppliers: Consider contacting local bars, restaurants, or breweries to inquire about their gas suppliers. Commercial draft systems often use nitrogen/CO2 mixtures, so nearby establishments serving draft beer can provide valuable insights into reliable gas suppliers in your area.
- Cost and Convenience: Compare prices and delivery options among gas supply companies. Some companies may offer more competitive pricing or convenient services, such as cylinder refills or rental options. Additionally, consider the proximity of the gas supplier to your location to ensure easy access and timely deliveries.
- Additional Services: Some gas supply companies may offer additional services such as installation support, maintenance, or emergency services for your nitro tap system. This can be beneficial to ensure the proper setup and ongoing performance of your equipment.
When choosing a gas supply company, it's important to prioritize safety, compatibility, and the quality of the gas mixture. By selecting a reputable and reliable supplier, you can ensure a consistent and high-quality nitrogen gas supply for your nitro beer tap system.
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Local bars and restaurants
Nitrogenated beer, pushed out of the keg using nitrogen gas, offers a smoother, creamier, and less fizzy mouthfeel compared to CO2-dispensed beers. The use of nitrogen results in smaller bubbles, creating a velvety and creamy texture that enhances the flavours and aromas of the drink. This makes it particularly appealing for dark beers like stouts and porters, as well as cocktails, coffee, tea, and even water.
The equipment required for nitrogenated beer includes a nitrogen gas cylinder, a nitrogen regulator, and a nitro tap or faucet. The nitro tap is an essential component, featuring a restrictor plate that slows the pour and agitates the beer, contributing to the thick head and cascading bubble effect. These taps are available from various vendors, with prices ranging from $75 to $150.
When it comes to the gas itself, local bars and restaurants can inquire with managers of establishments that serve draft beer to find a good supplier. The gas blend typically used is 70-75% nitrogen and 25-30% CO2, and it is crucial to avoid the common high-pressure draft system blend of 60% CO2 and 40% nitrogen. Additionally, nitrogen gas is stored at a much higher pressure than CO2 and requires a different type of cylinder with specific safety considerations.
By investing in the necessary equipment and gas supply, local bars and restaurants can offer their customers a unique and memorable drinking experience, setting themselves apart from the competition and appealing to those seeking a smooth, creamy beer with a thick head and a romantic, cascading pour.
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Welding supply companies
If you're looking to buy a nitrogen tap, you may want to consider contacting a welding supply company. Welding supply companies typically offer a range of gases, including nitrogen, and often specialise in gas blends.
Wagner Welding Supply
Wagner Welding Supply offers food-grade CO2 and beer gas mixes for home brewers and restaurants in Longmont, Colorado. They can provide you with the highest-quality mixes to ensure your customers get the best-tasting beer. They also offer next-day local gas delivery in the Denver area.
Central Welding Supply
Central Welding Supply is an FDA-registered company that manufactures and produces food and beverage-grade gases. They serve Western Washington and Oregon and offer a range of delivery options, including same-day and after-5 pm weekday deliveries. They can supply you with CO2, nitrogen, and mixed gas cylinders for your nitrogen tap setup.
Southern Welders Supply
Southern Welders Supply provides specialised services for beverage carbonation and can cater to your nitrogen tap needs. They service the areas of Orangeburg, Florence, Sumter, and Myrtle Beach, and offer a full line of welding and industrial gases. They also provide Microbulk Systems for a continuous supply of CO2, eliminating the need for changing cylinders.
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Kegerator equipment vendors
KegWorks:
KegWorks is a well-known vendor specialising in draft beer equipment for both commercial and residential bars. They offer a range of products, including custom solutions for architectural metal projects, such as bar foot rails and drink rails. KegWorks has been in the industry since 1998 and is dedicated to serving the hospitality and service sectors.
The Home Depot:
The Home Depot is a popular home improvement retailer that offers a wide range of kegerator options. They provide single, double, and triple tap kegerators from brands like Kegco, VEVOR, and EdgeStar. The Home Depot also offers digital and outdoor kegerator models, as well as models with additional features like UV-filtered glass doors and digital temperature control.
Amazon:
Amazon, the online retail giant, offers a vast selection of kegerator supplies and accessories. Their product range includes cleaning kits, beer line tubing, couplers, faucets, towers, and conversion kits. Amazon provides a convenient platform for purchasing kegerator equipment with various buying options and customer reviews to help make informed decisions.
Beverage Factory:
Beverage Factory is an online vendor that offers a range of kegerator equipment. They supply stout faucets, which are essential for achieving the creamy mouthfeel and cascading effect associated with nitro beers. Their website, www.beveragefactory.com, provides a user-friendly platform for purchasing equipment, and they are known for offering quality products at competitive prices.
Kegconnection:
Kegconnection is a specialised vendor that offers a range of kegerator supplies, with a focus on cleaning and maintenance products. They provide cleaning kits, line cleaning solutions, and powder specifically designed for kegerator systems. Kegconnection aims to make the cleaning process safe and easy for kegerator owners.
These vendors offer a wide range of kegerator equipment, from complete systems to individual components, catering to both residential and commercial needs. It is worth exploring their offerings to find the best match for your specific requirements.
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Frequently asked questions
You can buy a nitrogen beer tap from a variety of online retailers, including Amazon, Kegco, Kegworks, Micro Matic, and UBC. You can also find them at specialist beer and brewing equipment stores, such as Beveragefactory.com.
When buying a nitrogen beer tap, look for one that is specifically designed for nitrogenated beer. The tap should have a restrictor plate or disc that forces the beer through tiny holes, creating a thick, creamy head. You will also need a nitrogen/CO2 gas mixture with 70-75% nitrogen and 25-30% CO2.
Nitrogen beer taps vary in price depending on the brand and features. They typically range from around $75 to $150, but more expensive options are available.
Nitrogen beer taps infuse nitrogen into the beer, creating a smooth, creamy texture with smaller bubbles than traditional carbonation. This can enhance the flavor and aroma of the beer, making it more enjoyable to consume.
