Keeping your draft beer line properly maintained is key to its longevity. Without this maintenance, your draft beer system could pose many problems for you and your business. The three essential points to look after when maintaining your system are temperature, pressure, and cleanliness.
Temperature
The proper temperature for a draft beer line will differ depending on the type of system and product. However, most systems will generally want to consistently stay around 38 degrees F. This ensures that the beer served is of utmost quality and that bacteria has less of a chance of growing within the line. You also want to make sure your walk-in cooler is being opened and closed as little as possible in order to keep the temperature the same. You may also choose to install a glycol unit which circulates antifreeze into the beer lines to keep your beer at an optimal, refreshing temperature as well.
Pressure
Pressure is one of the most important maintenance up-keeps in a draft beer system. Without the proper pressure, the quality of your beer is subject to be greatly compromised. Pressure is so important to a draft beer system because it is what pushes the beer out from the keg and into your draft faucet. When you begin to pour a beer, the CO2 in the tank pushes the beer out and fills the empty space left over. This keeps the beer under constant pressure in the keg, therefore maintaining its carbonation. This is monitored by a CO2 regulator.
There are a few things to keep in mind when maintaining CO2 pressure. First off, make sure you’re storing your CO2 tank upright. If stored improperly, your CO2 regulator may become damaged.
Another thing to keep in mind is to find and set the proper PSI number. PSI refers to pounds per square inch and is a way that pressure is measured. Most beers have a specific PSI number that is unique to them. This number should be noted by your local beer distributor or brewery.
With too much pressure, beer can become very foamy due to over-carbonation and develop a poor taste. In addition, large bubbles can form in the head of the beer. Low CO2 pressure also causes a foamy pour, but this time the foam resembles more of a soap-like quality. This will also make the beer feel and taste pretty limp.
Cleaning
Cleaning your draft beer line is also very important to getting great tasting beer and maintaining a system that will last a long time. Deposits of yeast and sugar gradually and easily collect along beer lines over time and can greatly affect the taste of your beer. In some cases, it may also cause excess foaming. Cleaning your beer lines is recommended after every half or full keg. A good rule of thumb to follow is every two weeks. You may choose to clean the lines yourself with a cleaning kit, but this task is no easy feat and should be handled by a professional. At SC Beverage, we offer installation, maintenance, and cleaning of all types of professional beverage systems.
Purchasing a new draft beer system altogether can really put a dent in your company’s wallet, which is why it is essential to stay on top of its maintenance. Ensuring that the temperature and pressure are being monitored every day is an important first step, along with staying on top of cleanliness. Don’t be afraid to adjust the pressure as well if you’re struggling with getting the perfect pour. Each beer is wildly different and should be given the proper care and attention that is needed. When in doubt, ask your distributor about their suggested PSI for specific beers. And, again, stay on top of cleaning those beer lines at least twice a month with a hired professional.
