Beer kegs are a great way to store, keep, and serve large amounts of beer. One popular type of beer keg is a stainless steel keg. This type of keg has several benefits, as well as some key requirements for care and maintenance.
Benefits of Stainless Steel Beer Kegs
- Durable: Stainless steel beer kegs are very durable, making them long lasting. They won’t bend, dent, or break easily and thus can stand up to even rough treatment.
- Sanitary: The smooth, non-porous surface of stainless steel helps to keep bacteria, mold, and other germs out. This ensures a cleaner, fresher beer for longer.
- Temperature Maintenance: Stainless steel has great insulating properties, so it helps maintain beer temperature for longer.
- Easy Cleaning: It is relatively easy to clean stainless steel beer kegs compared to other types.
Care & Maintenance Tips
- CO₂ Pressure: The most important factor for keeping beer fresh in a stainless steel keg is maintaining proper CO₂ pressure. This should be around 12-14 PSI for lagers and ales.
- Cleaning & Sanitizing: Stainless steel beer kegs should be cleaned and sanitized regularly for optimal performance. A weak solution of bleach and water can be used to help keep the keg clean and free of bacteria and mold.
- Proper Storage: It is important to store the beer keg in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. Storing it in a place where temperatures could fluctuate drastically should also be avoided.
Overall, stainless steel beer kegs are a great way to store and serve beer. They are durable, sanitary, and help retain beer temperature. With proper care and maintenance, these kegs can last for years and serve up fresh, cold beer with every pour.