Replacing a beer keg is a simple procedure, which however must be carried out systematically to minimize waste and at the same time ensure the best flavor and optimal freshness of the drink. If you need to change a keg to the tap, follow the directions in this article.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Remove the Empty Keg
Step 1. Make sure it's blank
If no liquid or only a lot of foam comes out when you open the tap of the dispenser, you can be sure that it no longer contains beer.
Step 2. Inspect the area to see if the plant is equipped with a carbon dioxide cylinder
Some kegs must be coupled to containers of this gas, which provides the necessary pressure for the beer to be tapped; carbon dioxide also maintains the natural effervescence of the drink. If this cylinder is included in the system, close it before continuing.
Step 3. Lift the coupling valve handle at the base of the tap where it engages with the keg
Grab it and rotate it counterclockwise until it stops moving (half a turn should be enough).
Step 4. Lift the coupling valve from the empty barrel
Step 5. Set it aside
Method 2 of 3: Connect the New Keg
Step 1. Insert the new container into the cooling unit or a tub of ice
Step 2. Remove the plastic cap from the top
This element reports the brand of the beer and the date by which it should be consumed to enjoy the best possible product.
Step 3. Make sure the barrel well is clean
Step 4. Align the conical nuts at the base of the tap with the notches in the well of the keg
Step 5. Hold the coupling valve handle up and push the tap firmly into the barrel
Turn the dispenser half a turn clockwise until it is firmly tightened.
Step 6. Push the coupling valve handle down to the closed position
Step 7. Open the carbon dioxide bottle
Step 8. Turn on the tap to remove excess foam that often builds up in newly connected kegs
Step 9. Make sure the drink is flowing through the tap and there are no noticeable leaks
If the beer doesn't come out, repeat the process.
Method 3 of 3: Replace the CO cylinder2
Step 1. Check the tank pressure gauge to make sure it is empty
The meter should report a value of 0. The other clues that you need to change the carbon dioxide bottle are no beer flowing from the tap or a beer without fizz.
Step 2. Close the valve on the top of the bottle by turning it clockwise until it no longer moves
Step 3. Use a wrench or other specification to slowly disconnect the pressure regulator from the cylinder so any remaining gas can escape
This simple precaution allows to reduce the pressure inside the valve.
Step 4. Set the empty cylinder aside
Step 5. Install the new one
- Remove the protective tape from the outlet valve of the new cylinder.
- Connect the new cylinder by locking it with the wrench; remember to put in a new plastic washer every time you change the cylinder.
- Open the valve again by turning it counterclockwise; keep turning until the hissing stops and the knob no longer rotates.
- Make sure the pressure gauge is reading the pressure.
Advice
- If you have decided to chill the beer with ice, remember to put some under the keg because the tap sucks the drink from the bottom of the container.
- A cylinder of CO2 it is sufficient for about 7-10 kegs of beer, depending on their size.
- Some kegs are not equipped with a gas cylinder which helps to tap the beer, but they do have a vertical pump. After changing the keg, run the pump once; if the drink is not flowing or carbonated, keep using the pump until you get the desired result.
Warnings
- The drums and the carbon dioxide cylinders are under great pressure; proceed carefully when changing them.
- The dispensers cannot be used on kegs of beers of different brands: replace the empty keg with another from the same manufacturer.
