A keg hand pump is a tool used in the beer industry to pour draft beer from barrels. You can use it both in the bar and the countryside when having an incendiary beer party. The latter is the most common application of this equipment.
After reading our article, you will learn how the pump works and what mistakes brewers often make when using it.
How to Tap a Keg with a Hand Pump?
Tapping a keg with a keg hand pump is a time-tested method of alcoholic beverages dispensing, providing a constant flow of delicious craft beer.
However, to serve beer properly, you need to master the skill of working with the equipment, which includes the following steps:
- Cool your beverage barrel
You can do this by using an ice bucket or a special insulated keg bag, immersing the barrel in cold running water, or burying it in a shady place.
Of all these methods, an insulated barrel bag is the best option because it keeps the ice frozen longer and cools the beverage container evenly.
- Make sure the keg is in the correct position
The barrel should be upright with a faucet at its top.
- Remove the dirt
Before connecting the pump or faucet, it is important to make sure that you have cleaned the barrel of dirt that may spoil your beverage.
- Relieve the pressure
It should be done to avoid excessive foam and beer spills. Turn the pressure relief valve on the barrel counterclockwise until you hear the characteristic hissing sound.
- Connect the tap
To do it, a draft beer faucet must be inserted into the valve located on the top of the barrel. Make sure that the equipment is securely fixed: This is the only way you can provide a sealed connection.
- Fix keg hand pump
Place the pump between the eyelets and the top of the barrel. Next, turn the equipment about a quarter turn clockwise: this way it will securely connect to your keg.
- Pump the handle of your pump
Push the handle: this way you create pressure inside the barrel. Pump until you feel resistance or see the beer flowing from the tap into the glass.
- Adjust flow
Once the beer starts to come from the draft beer faucet, adjust the flow rate, controlling the speed and intensity of pump operation. You must achieve a slow and uniform spill, without excessive foaming.
Everything is ready! Now you can taste delicious fresh beer wherever you are!
Common Mistakes When Using a Keg Hand Pump
Knowing the most common mistakes of beer dispensing with a hand pump will help you avoid them in the future:
- Excessive pumping and too fast pouring
Too fast beer dispensing can produce too much foam. To avoid this, try to pump the keg smoothly and evenly.
- Wrong temperature
Serving beer at too high or too low temperatures can affect its taste and quality. Make sure the barrel is stored and served at the appropriate temperature, usually between 38-42 degrees Fahrenheit for most beers.
- Insufficient CO2 pressure
It is very important to check and adjust the CO2 pressure before serving alcoholic beverages. Inappropriate pressure can lead to undercarbonated beer.
- Stirring too much
It can disrupt carbonation or cause increased foaming. If possible, do not shake and turn over the barrels of drinks.
- Insufficient cleaning
If this issue is ignored, bacteria may appear in the drink, which will worsen the quality of the beer.
Be sure to clean and disinfect all the elements of your beer system regularly.
To buy a quality keg hand pump, contact Beverage Craft. Here you will be helped to choose quality equipment that will help to make beer dispensing as simple and convenient as possible.
