Advice on best way to keep beer fresh

[boblees]

I have a new Haier and it works fine. My questions are on how long things last. Do I leave the CO2 open all the time? How long will a 5lb CO2 last (I have it set at 12psi)? what happens if the CO2 runs out, how long will the beer be good for? If I turn the CO2 off when away on business will this affect the taste of the beer? I am basically looking for advice to keep the beer fresh when it sits for a while. Don't drink that much, I have it set up in the basement more for when we have company. thanks.

Bob

[Auld Og]

All of this and more is answered on the FAQ here (it's a really good one) so I let you meander over there.

I'd also recommend getting smaller kegs so you can go through 'em faster. I usually get the 1/6 barrel kegs, which many breweries have available. They're especially popular with many of the micros.

Other than that, drink fast to keep it fresh!

[Scott Zuhse]

If you set your pressure correctly you can enjoy the beer for the shelf life of the product. You can leave the CO2 on at all times. Check for leaks. Great suggestion on smaller kegs. Sixth or quarters are generally available.

Scott Zuhse, Instructor Micro Matic Dispense Institute