Designed to quench the thirst of dozens of customers, beer dispensers are excellent additions to restaurants, bars, catered events, and more. Their simple design makes them easy to use, and they have the capacity to serve dozens before needing a refill. Just like any other type of equipment, these systems require routine maintenance. In this guide, learn how to select the right dispenser for you, how to set it up, and find recommendations for upkeep and cleaning.
Shop AllBeer dispensers in general can be broken into three categories: kegerators, jockey boxes, and outdoor kegerators. Each type has unique benefits and is suitable for particular environments. Before you choose your beer dispenser, consider the following factors:
Knowing the answers to these questions will help you to choose the right dispenser for your needs. Read more about each type and its characteristics below.
Kegerators | Outdoor Kegerators | Jockey Boxes | |
---|---|---|---|
Electrically Cooled | |||
Ice Cooled | |||
Outdoor Use | |||
Vertical Tap | |||
Horizontal Tap |
Kegerators are refrigerated beer dispensers that are designed to hold a keg or multiple kegs of beer. The term "kegerator" comes from the combination of the words "keg" and "refrigerator."
Setting up a new kegerator will require assembling the following key components: the casters, beer dispenser, tap tower(s), faucet, regulator, CO2 cylinder, coupler, and tubing lines.
For safety, follow your kegerator's manufacturer's instructions for assembly. It's important to familiarize yourself with tap towers, faucets, and other tap system components before beginning. Generally, the process will be similar to the following steps:
A keg typically lasts 6-8 weeks in a kegerator, but this time depends on several factors including how long the beer was in the keg before tapping, if the beer has been pasteurized, and the beer style. Remember that proper storage temperatures and pasteurization can often extend the life of your beer. There are many variables that can negatively impact the quality of beer you are dispensing from your kegerator. Be sure you are well informed on how to maintain a commercial beer tap system so you can offer up only the highest quality beer to your customers.
A jockey box, also called a coil box, is a portable solution for serving beer. These boxes look like coolers and generally contain 1-4 taps to connect to your kegs for serving.
A jockey box works by pushing beer through a series of coils inside the box and out through a faucet on the outside of the box. A beer line connects the keg to a shank at the back of the box. The beer is then forced through the coils, which are surrounded in an ice bath in order to chill the beer. These coils are attached to another shank and a faucet on the front of the box from which beer is served.
Setting up a new jockey box will require assembling the following key components: the box itself, beer line, coils, two shanks for each tap (one for each side of the box), a faucet for each set of shanks, and a CO2 cylinder and its regulator.
For safety, follow your jockey box's manufacturer's instructions for assembly. Generally, the process will be similar to the following steps:
Outdoor kegerators are perfect for serving beer at outdoor events or patio bars. They resemble traditional kegerators, but they typically have a heavy-duty exterior that is built to withstand outdoor conditions better than indoor kegerators.
Outdoor kegerators are usually set up similarly to indoor kegerators. Refer to the steps above and your kegerator's manufacturer's instructions for the proper setup.
A wide variety of accessories are available to help you get the most out of your beer dispenser. Here are some popular options for you to add to your setup:
Related Resources
September 2024 WebstaurantStore Coupon Code
Fall is almost here, and to celebrate Webstaurantstore is offering a selection of amazing deals! In September, you'll discover incredible prices on classic fall flavors, glassware, cold cups, and much more! Take a look at our selection of sale items below and don't forget to enter the code COZY24 at checkout to enjoy savings of up to 25%! We're also excited to introduce the new Webstaurant Rewards® Visa Business Card ! Sign up for a new card today and start earning rewards on every WebstaurantStore purchase. Discover the latest discounts on consumable food and beverage items with September's monthly coupon code. From ready-to-bake pastries to classic fall flavoring mixes, you can find great deals on essential consumables for your commercial
Choosing the Best Kegerator For Your Bar
Although they look like mini refrigerators, kegerators are much more specialized. Kegerators are used by a variety of businesses to chill and dispense draft beer. There are many different kinds of kegerators available in various sizes and styles, including both indoor and outdoor kegerators. This guide will inform you of the various types that are out there so you can make an informed choice when deciding on which one is right for you. For more information on setting up and maintaining kegerators, check out our Beer Dispenser Installation and Maintenance guide .
Beer Glass Buying Guide
Whether you own a taphouse or brewery , using the right glassware to serve your beers will highlight the characteristics that make each style unique. Color, carbonation, and aromatics can all be enhanced by the shape and thickness of the glass. Using the appropriate glassware for each type of beer has the potential to improve the craft beer experience for your guests. Keep reading to learn all about the beer glass types available and which beers they complement the most. Shop All Beer Glasses Click below to learn more about each type of beer glass: American Pint Glass Imperial Pint Glass Pilsner Glass Weizen Glass Snifter Glass Tulip Glass Beer Goblet IPA Glass Stout Glass Stange Glass Dimple Beer Mug Beer Boot Types of Beer Glasses Chart