The value of beer taps can vary widely depending on the type, age and condition of the tap. For example, older or vintage beer taps made before 1960 can be extremely rare and valuable, with some collecting in the thousands or tens of thousands.
A traditional chrome beer tap collected in good condition may range in value from as little as $20 to several hundred or more. In some cases, a plated beer tap may be worth even more.
More common beer taps are typically less expensive, but can still be worth upwards of several hundred dollars. Usually these more common types are found on kegerators in bars. Collectors may be more inclined to be interested in a classic beer tap from a popular brand or craft brewery.
Depending on the type and condition, these can range from around $50 to upwards of several thousand.
In some cases, certain beer taps are collectible only because of their association with certain sports teams, TV shows, companies or people, rather than the brewery from which they come from. For example, a beer tap from a Super Bowl could be worth more than a traditional beer tap simply because it’s more recognizable and has more associated history.
However, the true value of a beer tap comes down to how much someone is willing to pay for it.
What are the handles on beer taps called?
The handles on beer taps are commonly referred to as beer faucets or beer taps. Beer faucets are usually made of chrome-plated brass, which makes them durable and resistant to corrosion. Depending on the type of beer tap, the handle may be attached to a short piece that protrudes from a shank or, in the case of some style handles, a larger lever-like piece.
The levers can be arranged for a forward or reverse pour, typically indicated by an arrow on the top of the lever. Beer faucets also often have a knob attached to them that can be used to adjust the pressure, which affects the flow rate and ultimately the speed of which the beer is poured.
How do bars get tap handles?
Bars usually get tap handles through their suppliers and distributors. The taps are typically purchased from a manufacturer and then shipped to the bar.
The majority of bars and restaurants use distributors, as they can provide more economic and reliable prices for products, such as beers and wines, as well as taps and other supplies and services. These distributors typically have a wide range of taps available, so bars can easily find the style or brand of tap handle they are looking for.
In some cases, bars may also purchase tap handles directly from the manufacturer. This could be a good option if the bar is looking for an unusual item, or wants to customize the tap handle in some way.
However, this method may require some extra research, effort and cost on the bar’s part.
Whatever method the bar owners chose, they should consider the restrictions their local health department may have in terms of taps and tap systems. In some areas, the taps must meet certain sanitation standards, or require extra safety measures.
Additionally, it is important for bars to ensure that the supplier and/or manufacturer offers a warranty on the taps, so that any damage, malfunctions or issues can be easily taken care of.
Can you have a beer tap in your house?
Yes, you can have a beer tap in your house. A home beer tap system is a great way to add a touch of authenticity and sophistication to your home bar or game room. When properly installed, a beer tap can be a straightforward and enjoyable addition to any home.
When shopping for a home beer tap system, there are many options available depending on the size of your home bar and the beer you prefer. For example, there are mini-kegerators which are small enough to fit under the counter and take up very little space.
This is a great option for those who are short on space and want to add draft beer to their home bar, but don’t want to take up an entire countertop.
For those looking for something a bit more permanent and on a larger scale, there are either single-tap or multiple-tap beer towers and home kegerators. These systems allow you to keep a large selection of beer cold at all times and can be a great investment for those looking to really get something out of their home bar.
Installing a beer tap system in your home can be more complicated than plugging in a mini-kegerator, so it’s important to make sure you have the necessary tools and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Additionally, you will need to make sure you have a space to store the kegs, as well as a CO2 tank to dispense beer on tap.
Once you’ve taken the necessary steps to install your home beer tap system, it’s time to fill it with your favorite beer and begin dispensing. It’s important to clean the lines regularly to ensure the freshness of your beer and make sure it tastes delicious every time.
With proper installation and maintenance, you’ll be savoring great beer from the comfort of your own home in no time.
How much does it cost to install a beer tap at home?
The cost of installing a beer tap at home varies depending on the type of tap you choose and any additional features you’d like to add. A basic system that includes a keg, refrigerator and faucet could cost anywhere from $400 to $700.
If you’d like to include other features such as a pressurized CO2 system, extra storage space, or additional taps, the price can extend above $1000. If you’re new to home beer dispensing, it’s important to research the different types of equipment available so you can make the best decision for your budget.
You may also want to consider installation services, as some companies specialize in beer taps and have professionals to help you set up and maintain your beer dispenser.
How long does a keg last?
This answer will vary greatly depending on multiple factors. The amount of beer in the keg, the type of beer, and the temperature of the room in which it is stored will all play a role in how long a keg will last.
Generally speaking, one keg, if stored properly, should last between 8 and 10 weeks (2-3 months) at a temperature of 38-40 degrees F. If the keg is stored at a cooler temperature, the beer should last longer, while higher temperatures will cause the shelf life to diminish.
Additionally, the type of beer in the keg will also be a factor. Pale ales, lagers, and lite beers tend to have longer shelf lives than IPAs and darker beers.
What do you need for a home beer tap?
In order to set up a home beer tap, you will need the following items:
1. A beer keg – You will need a 5 or 15.5 gallon keg to store the beer in. Depending on the brand of beer, you may need to buy a specific type of keg.
2. CO2 tank – You’ll need to purchase or rent a CO2 tank, which is used to pressurize the beer and help keep it fresh.
3. Regulator – You’ll need a regulator to control the amount of CO2 going into the keg, allowing you to adjust the pressure to the appropriate level.
4. Beer line – Beer lines are plastic tubes that connect the keg to the faucet. They’re designed to keep the beer cold, so you’ll want to buy good-quality lines.
5. Tap – The tap is the most visible part of your home beer tap system. You can buy taps in a variety of styles and colors.
6. Faucet – You’ll need to buy a faucet to attach to the tap. This allows you to pour the beer.
7. Keg coupler – The keg coupler is a device that attaches the beer line to the keg.
8. Assembly and installation tools – To properly install a home beer tap, you’ll need a wrench, an adjustable wrench, and a few screwdrivers.
How do you set up a beer keg at home?
Setting up a beer keg at home is surprisingly easy and can make hosting events much more enjoyable and convenient. The setup typically involves purchasing the necessary equipment, filling and tapping the keg, cooling the keg, and then allowing time for the beer to settle before serving.
The first step is obtaining the needed supplies. You will need a beer keg, a keg coupler, a CO2 tank, gas line, beer faucet, and a bucket and ice. Depending on the type of beer you plan to serve, you may need a different keg coupler so it’s important to be sure to purchase the right one.
Next, you’ll fill and tap the keg. This involves attaching the coupler to the top of the keg, then changing the settings on the coupler to the specific pressure to dispense the beer you’re serving. Once that’s done, you’ll attach the gas line to the hose of the coupler and the CO2 tank, and then open the valve on the tank to release the necessary pressure for dispensing beer.
Next, you’ll want to ensure the beer is properly chilled. To do this, use a bucket and add a few bags of ice and a handful of rock salt to act as a coolant. Place the keg in the bucket and make sure it’s fully submerged in the ice to ensure the keg stays at the correct temperature.
Finally, you’ll let the beer settle before serving. This will take between one to two days, and allows the beer to fully condition and carbonate to achieve its full flavor. Once the beer has settled, your keg is ready to be tapped and enjoyed.
Which way should faucet handles turn?
Faucet handles should turn clockwise to open and counter-clockwise to close. Tightening the faucet handles in a clockwise direction will help ensure the best possible water pressure. However, you should exercise caution when turning any faucet handle, as excessive force put on the handle can break the handle or valve.
If you feel a lot of resistance when turning, stop and check for existing damage or debris build up inside the faucet which may be causing the handle to stick. It is also a good idea to lubricate the handle and valve, as this will provide a smooth motion and reduce the pressure when turning the handle.
In cases where the handle is impaired and unable to turn, it may be best to replace the entire faucet with a new one rather than trying to fix the old one, as this will help preserve the water pressure.
Why does my faucet handle turn too far?
This could be due to a variety of possible factors. The most likely is that the valve seat or disc inside the valve has worn down or corroded over time. As the valve ages, it may become loose and cause the handle to turn beyond the normal shut-off point.
If this is the case, then you will need to replace the entire faucet assembly. If the handle turns too far but the water still turns off as it should, it might be an issue with the handle assembly and not the valve.
The handle screws may be loose or corroded, or the handle may be slightly out of shape, causing it to turn too far. You may be able to fix this by tightening the screws or replacing parts of the handle assembly.
How do I stop my faucet from turning off so far?
If your faucet is turning off too far, there may be a loose valve or incorrectly adjusted water pressure. To begin troubleshooting, first turn the water off and unscrew the faucet handle. Undo the valve, checking to make sure that it is securely tightened.
If it is loose, tighten it in a clockwise direction. Once it is securely fastened, screw the handle back on and turn the water back on. If the faucet is still turning off too far, you may need to adjust the water pressure.
This can be done by turning off the water source and opening the faucet. You can then use a flat head screwdriver to turn the screw on the underside of the faucet and increase or decrease the water pressure as desired.
Once you have adjusted the pressure, close the faucet, turn the water source back on, and try the faucet to check whether it is now turning off to your desired point.
Can you change a faucet without turning off the water?
No, it is not recommended to change a faucet without turning off the water first. Without turning off the water, water could potentially spray all over the room, and you may not be able to properly install the new faucet in the correct way.
If you do not turn off the water, you also risk causing potential water damage to the walls, ceilings, or floor in the area of installation. Additionally, any connections between existing pipes are very likely to loosen, causing potential leaks.
To avoid any potential damage, it is strongly recommended to always turn off the water before replacing a faucet.
How do you turn a tap off?
To turn a tap off, first begin by grasping the handle or lever of the faucet. It is important to take care not to apply too much pressure when turning the handle. If the handle is stuck, try gently pushing it back and forth to loosen the valve.
Once the handle is loose, turn it in a clockwise direction until the faucet is completely shut off. Depending on the design of the faucet, this may require more than one full turn. Once the faucet is fully turned off, it is important to also turn off the water supply for the faucet, if applicable.
This can be done by locating the valves under the sink, and turning them in a clockwise direction as well. In some cases, the water supply may be completely separate from the faucet, in which case there will not be any additional valves to turn off.
What size bolt fits a beer tap handle?
The size of the bolt required to fit a beer tap handle will depend on the type of beer tap handle you are using. Most standard beer tap handles come with a universal 1/4″ UNC mounting bolt for screws and nipples.
However, if you are using a larger, more decorative beer tap handle, you may need a larger bolt size to secure it properly. Examples of larger bolt sizes that could be used for different types of beer tap handles include 3/8″ UNC, 7/16″ UNC, or ½” UNC.
In order to ensure that you have the correct bolt size for your beer tap handle, it is recommended to measure the diameter of the mounting hole in the handle before making your purchase.
Are all tap handles universal?
No, all tap handles are not universal. Tap handles come in a range of shapes and sizes, making it difficult to produce one handle that would fit all types of faucets. In general, the size and shape of a specific tap handle is designed to be compatible with the corresponding faucet, although there is some variance between manufacturers.
Additionally, many faucets require a specific type of handle depending on what type of system is installed in the bar. For example, more modern draft beer systems may require a more specialized handle than more traditional systems.
Ultimately, it is important to double-check the dimensions and specifications of a tap handle to ensure compatibility with a specific system.
How far apart should tap handles be?
The general rule of thumb for standard distance between beer tap handles is 10 inches. However, this distance can vary depending on the type and size of faucet being used, as well as the environment in which it is placed.
For instance, in a crowded bar, tap handles may need to be spaced a bit further apart so that each tap is easily accessible. Additionally, if a beer tap handle is used in a smaller space such as a kitchen or office, the distance between each handle can be somewhat shorter.
The important thing to keep in mind is that no matter the distance, beer taps should not be too close together, and each handle should have its own space.
