Beer Related FAQs

What should the proper size head on my finished beer pour be for best customer satisfaction and maximum profits?
To maximize your kegged beer profits and to provide the best customer satisfaction a 16 oz pint glass should have a 3/4″ head. The head on a pint of beer increases aroma and provides a nice mouth feel for greater customer satisfaction. The head on a pint also saves approximately 1.5 oz of beer on each pint poured. A perfect pint equals maximum profit!

What temperature should my keg cooler ideally be?
As a general rule of thumb, beer kegs should be stored at a consistent 38F. If warmer or colder beer dispense is desired, please contact one of our Beverage Dispense experts to advise you in how to accomplish this without causing flat or foamy beer. In most cases, mixed gas from Nitrogen Separators can help compensate for temperatures outside the normal range.

How often should my draught beer lines be cleaned and why should I clean them?
All recognized beer institutions agree that draught beer lines should be cleaned every two weeks. Proper beer line cleaning is essential for maintaining fresh and correct tasting draught beer. Improper cleaning frequency and/or cleaning methods can increase beer foam and will make it difficult to achieve the Perfect Pour. As your beverage gas supply partner, Volunteer Beverage Carbonation can assist you in finding reputable beer line cleaning companies in your local area.

Does it really matter what gas and pressure I use on my beer kegs?
Absolutely! The correct gas mix and gas pressures will dictate the profitability of your draught beer system. Improper gas types or mixes and incorrect gas pressures will cause undesirable outcomes including over-carbonation, foamy beer, flat beer and general customer dissatisfaction. Contact one of our Beverage Gas Experts to find out what gas and pressure is perfect for your establishment.

Is the mix of 25% CO₂/75% nitrogen right for my non-stout beers?
While 25% CO₂ is perfect for your stout creamed beers it is absolutely not acceptable for any normal ale or lager type of beer. The result will be under carbonated or flat beer.

The perfect ratio of CO₂/ nitrogen is customized for your exact draught beer system. Typically 60-80% CO₂ will be the range for most long draw beer keg systems. Each beer system has its own ideal mix ratio to deliver the perfect pint. Our Gas Experts can calculate your ideal gas mix and assist you in how to increase your draught beer system profits.

Why should I use a nitrogen separator over changing, ordering and storing cylinders?
Simple! Nitrogen Separators provide perfectly carbonated beer and wine for greater beverage profits. Separators also offer a much less carbon intensive means to deliver nitrogen for beer and wine dispense systems. Separators provide hands-free operation and customized gas blends for all types of keg dispense systems. Perfect Pints equal maximum profit!