DRAFT BEER FAQS: TROUBLESHOOTING
What are some common troubleshooting issues?
Almost all dispensing problems are the result of improper temperature, incorrect pressure source or amount of cleaning issues.
Quick checklist
- Is the keg stored between 36-38° F and temperature is consistent throughout the system to the glass?
- If CO2 is applied to keg, is the pressure between 12-14 lbs.?
- If the gas blend of 70% CO2 / 30% nitrogen (common blend) is applied, is the pressure between 20-25 lbs.?
- Have the faucet, beer line, and keg coupler been cleaned regularly with an intended chemical solution?
WILD BEER
When drawn, wild beer is all foam, or too much foam and not enough liquid beer.
CAUSES:
- The beer temperature is too warm
- CO2 or gas blend pressure to the keg is incorrect
- Faucet is dirty, worn or seals/o-rings defective
- Kinks, twists, or other obstructions in the beer hose
- Faucet operated improperly
FLAT BEER
Flat beer occurs when the foam head disappears quickly; beer lacks brewery-fresh flavor.
CAUSES:
- The beer temperature is too cold
- CO2 or gas blend pressure to the keg is incorrect
- Dirty glassware
CLOUDY BEER
Cloudy beer happens when beer in the glass appears hazy, not clear.
CAUSES:
- Frozen or nearly frozen beer
- Beer that has been un-refrigerated for long periods of time
- Outdated beer
- Dirty faucet, beer hose, and/or keg coupler
- Dirty glassware
FALSE HEAD
False head occurs when large soap-like bubbles appear, and the head dissolves very quickly.
CAUSES:
- Improper glass cleaning
- Operating faucet incorrectly
THE GLOBAL LEADER IN DRAFT EQUIPMENT SOLUTIONS
For over 60 years, Micro Matic has been recognized as one of the world’s leading suppliers of draft beer equipment. Specializing in keg-to-glass technology, we offer a total solution for meeting your draft beer equipment needs. Our dedication to customer service is supported by four regional sales and distribution centers, the Micro Matic Dispense Institute for training and education, and a Certified Installer Network for draft beer installations. Want to speak with a “perfect pour” expert? Contact Micro Matic today.