Altitude attitude?

[Hop-Head]

Hello, I see some talk about specific gas pressures for "domestic" beer at temp. Why is this important?

I have a converted refrigerator that keeps my local brewery micro-brews (IPA mostly 8%ABV)) around 36F. I adjust the CO2 to get a nice medium-slow pour. The reg is set around 12-15 psi.

How do I tell if I'm NOT at optimum pressure/temp?
Is all this about "foaming" problems?
If my beer's cold and my head is perfect, should I even worry about altitude, temperature and pressure settings?

Thanks,

Tom

[Scott Zuhse]

Carbonation levels are part of the recipe of the beer. To maintain this recipe from the brewer, you have to propel with the correct amount of CO2 pressure. Ask the brewer what their level of carbonation is in volumes. For example, if it is 2.5 volumes, you will require 13 PSIG @ 36 degrees F at sea level. Atmospheric pressure changes with elevation, therefore so should PSIG to compensate. Bottom line - if you are happy with the way your beer tastes every glass out of the keg, we are happy!

Scott Zuhse, Instructor Micro Matic Dispense Institute