A tap handle, also sometimes referred to as a beer handle or a draft handle, is a handle used to dispense beer from a keg or other vessel containing the alcoholic beverage. Tap handles can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials depending on the device and preference of the user.
Traditional tap handles are made of wood or metal, although there are some more creative materials like plastics being used. The handle usually has the logo or name of the brand of beer printed or engraved.
Tap handles exist to draw attention to the different beer varieties that a bar or pub has to offer and to make it easy for patrons to identify the available selection of beers. They are also used to differentiate between the different draught beer varieties between bars.
Tap handles are most commonly associated with pubs and breweries, but can also be used in private settings for home brewers. They provide an easy and attractive way to serve draft beers.
How do beer tap handles work?
Beer tap handles work in a very simple way. When you pull on the tap handle, it opens a valve inside the faucet, allowing beer to flow out of the keg. Inside the keg, the beer is under pressure from nitrogen or carbon dioxide gas, which pressurizes the beer and forces it out of the tap.
Once the tap is activated, the pressure from the gas forces beer out of the tap. When the beer pressure is released, the tap handle is pushed back to its original position and the valve is closed, stopping the beer from flowing.
The tap handle is usually connected to the valve by a metal rod or linkage.
In some situations, the beer tap handle is directly connected to the keg, eliminating the need for a separate valve. In other cases, beer tap handles are connected to a system of beer lines that run from the keg to the tap.
This system of beer lines allows the bar to move multiple kegs of different types of beer to the same tap handle. This allows bar patrons to enjoy a variety of different beers from a single tap. This type of system is known as a beer line manifold.
No matter the type of tap handle, the fundamentals of how beer tap handles work are the same. Pulling on the handle opens the valve inside the faucet and allows beer to flow out of the keg. Releasing the handle closes the valve, stopping the flow of beer.
Are beer tap handles universal?
No, beer tap handles are not universal. Different breweries sometimes use different types of tap handles, depending on the type of beer, the shape of the beer bottle, or the brewery’s individual style.
Some tap handles are designed to be specific to a particular brewery, while others may be designed to fit the style of different brands. The size and shape of a tap handle also differs depending on the size and style of the beer bottle and the make of the tap system.
Some breweries have their own unique tap handles that are not universal across brands. In addition, some types of draft systems will require a different type of tap handle since they may not accept the universal type.
What are the parts of a keg called?
A keg consists of various components, all of which work together to keep the beer pressurized, cooled and ready to serve. The following are a few of the parts of keg that are most important:
1. Keg Shell – This is the rust-proof, stainless steel cylinder that holds the beer. The top lid is removable and it acts as a secure seal, keeping the beer safely stored inside.
2. Sankey Tap – This is the most common type of tap used to connect to the keg. This valve connects the beer line to the keg and allows the beer to be dispensed.
3. Lid – The lid securely seals the top of the keg and holds all of the components in place. It also provides a secure opening for the tap to connect with.
4. Tank Seal – This is the rubber seal between the lid and the keg itself. It is designed to create a tight seal and protect the beer from any outside air.
5. Pressure Relief Valve – This valve prevents the build-up of too much pressure inside the keg and safely releases and excess pressure.
6. Regulator – The regulator controls the flow of beer and is connected to the regulator knob. It is usually adjustable and allows you to dial in the proper amount of flow.
7. Keg Coupler – This is the piece of equipment which connects to the Sankey Tap, allowing you to draw beer from the keg.
What is a beer coupler?
A beer coupler is a device used to attach a draft beer line to a keg. It is a key element of any draft beer system that allows beer to be conveniently poured and served. The coupler connects to the top of the keg and works by pressing down the handle which activates a spring-loaded valve and allows the beer to flow from the keg and through the beer line, eventually reaching the faucet and being served from the tap.
Beer couplers are typically made out of brass or stainless steel and come in a variety of types, such as a lever-action, button-action, or the standard A and D, which are the most popular models. The type of coupler required for a specific keg will depend on the type of beer, as each type generally requires a different coupler.
Properly connecting a beer line to a keg is essential for serving high-quality draft beer; a poor connection can cause foaming and pouring issues as well as a decrease in beer freshness and flavor.
What are draft handles called?
Draft handles are also known as beer taps or faucets. They are devices that allow beer to be poured out of a keg or cask. Draft handles are usually made up of metal parts and are connected directly to the keg.
The metal arms can be adjusted to allow carbon dioxide to be introduced and create the ideal pour. The handles allow for a consistent pour, and regulate the amount of beer being drawn from the tap. Draft handles often have a curved arm, which allows for an easier and more fluid draw of beer.
Some faucets come with a spout or a nozzle, which can be placed into your beer glass or mug. These spouts or nozzles create the perfect beer head at the end of your pour.
Are beer taps standard size?
No, beer taps come in a range of sizes and other specifications. Generally speaking, when it comes to beer taps, there are two major types: kegerators and draught beer tower systems. Kegerators are much smaller in size and dispense beer through a single tap, while draught beer tower systems usually dispense beer through several taps.
The size of the taps depends on the type of kegerator or draught beer tower system being used. For example, a typical American kegerator uses a D-system coupler, which typically has a diameter of 9/16 inches and a height of about 4.5 inches.
Meanwhile, the larger European kegerator typically uses a G-system coupler (or Grundy tap) which generally has a diameter of 18.8mm and a height of 11mm. It is important to note that there are other variations on the size of the taps, so you should always check the specifications of your kegerator or draught beer tower system before buying or installing beer taps.
How tall should a tap handle be?
The height of a tap handle can depend on a variety of factors including the height of the bar surface and the distance between the floor and the underside of the counter. Generally speaking, it is best to keep the tap handles between 12-14 inches in order to ensure that they can easily be reached by bartenders and patrons.
It is also important to take into account the bottle or can size, as the handle should easily allow the user to pour without disruption or spilling. In addition to height, the length of the tap handle should also be accounted for as it needs to provide comfortable and ergonomic gripping for the bartender.
Tap handles that are too short can cause the bartender to have to lean forward or down to reach, whereas tap handles that are too long can become cumbersome and clunky for the user.
How do you make your own beer tap handles?
Making your own beer tap handles requires some basic tools, a little patience, and some creativity. The first step is to choose the material you want to use. Wood is the most common material for making beer tap handles, but you can also use metal, plastic, and even glass.
You’ll also need some tools to cut and shape your handle, such as a drill, saw, and a lathe if you’re using wood or plastic. You’ll also need supplies that you can find at your local craft store, such as epoxy glue, wood glue, sandpaper, and paint.
Once you have the supplies, you’ll need to cut the wood or plastic to the desired size and shape. Using a template can help make this step easier. Once you have your shape, use the drill to make holes for the hardware, such as the screws, knobs, and plugs.
Next, you’ll want to make sure that the handle is properly sealed, with epoxy glue and wood glue. Once the glue has dried, you can add the finishing touches, such as painting, sanding, and polishing.
If you are using a metal or plastic material, you may need to have it professionally machined to get a perfect finish.
Finally, you’ll want to attach the hardware and make sure that everything is secure. You’ll also need to make sure that the tap handle is the correct size and shape for your kegerator or beer dispenser.
Once you’re satisfied with your creation, you’ll be be able to proudly show off your custom beer tap handle.
Are all tap handles the same size?
No, not all tap handles are the same size. Each type of beer or beverage might require a different size to fit the corresponding beverage size and container. For example, a larger handle may be required for a 17-ounce bottle of beer, while a smaller handle may be used for a 12-ounce can of beer.
In addition, different restaurants or breweries may choose different sizes to best suit their decor or style. For instance, some may opt for a larger handle to provide an eye-catching look while some might prefer a smaller handle that doesn’t take up too much space.
The type of material and construction can also determine the size and shape of a tap handle as well. Ultimately, you’ll find a wide variety of sizes and shapes when it comes to tap handles on the market.
How do you stop a beer tap from dripping?
In order to stop a beer tap from dripping, there are a few short-term and long-term solutions that you can try. First and foremost, as soon as you finish pouring a beer, make sure to close the faucet handle.
This can prevent the dripping from occurring in the first place.
If the beer tap is already dripping, the first step would be to try to adjust the level of the beer, giving it time to set for a few minutes before re-opening the faucet handle. If this still doesn’t reduce or stop the dripping, then it is a sign that you are dealing with a bigger issue.
Next, you can try to clean the air line or replace it with another air line line of the same length and diameter. If replacing the air line line doesn’t work, or you see that there is still leakage or air coming from the line, then it may be time to replace the entire faucet assembly.
Before replacing any parts, it is important to take a close look at any O-rings or washers and check if they are leaking or need to be replaced.
Finally, it is also important to confirm that the drip tray is securely and properly installed below the faucet. With time, the drip tray will start to get clogged with dirt, which can disrupt the flow of beer in the line.
If this is the case, it will be necessary to empty and clean the drip tray.
If you have tried the above solutions and the faucet continues to drip, then it is possible there is a bigger issue that needs to be addressed by a certified beer technician.
How do you remove a tap head with no screws?
If there are no screws visible on the tap head, it likely has an internal fixing system, which means that the head is held in place by a small collar, or grub screw, located behind the spout of the tap.
To begin to remove the tap head, turn off the water supply to the tap. Then use a pair of flat-nosed pliers or a wrench to loosen the grub screw, which is located behind the spout at the base of the tap head.
You may need to use a small mirror to be able to spot where the grub screw is. Once the grub screw is loosened, you should be able to twist the tap head off manually. If the head does not come off easily, you may need to use a bit of WD-40 or piercing oil and try again after a few minutes.
Once the head is removed, you should be able to inspect the internal mechanism and make the appropriate adjustments or replacements as required.
What is a forward sealing faucet?
A forward sealing faucet is a type of tap or faucet that has a built in mechanism to help prevent backflow of water. This type of faucet’s design helps to prevent water contamination and increase the efficiency of the water supply.
The forward sealing faucet consists of a valve stem with an extended stem, which closes the valve when it is not in use, and a valve seal that is inserted into the stem so that water cannot backflow out of the tap itself.
The forward sealing faucet helps to ensure that water is not contaminated by coming in contact with a previous user’s plumbing system, as well as preventing water from flowing into a neighbouring property.
As the name implies, the forward-sealing faucet is designed to seal the water inlet to the faucet, which helps to reduce the water consumption. The forward sealing faucet has steadily become the preferred faucet for both commercial and residential applications.
How do you put together a Kegerator?
Putting together a Kegerator is a multi-step process, and it’s important to ensure that each step is completed correctly in order to ensure that your Kegerator will work optimally.
First, you’ll need to purchase all of the necessary components. This typically includes the actual Kegerator itself, a CO2 tank, a dual gauge regulator, a keg, a tap, and several feet of beer line. Once you have all of your materials, you’ll need to assemble the Kegerator according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
This may include inserting the door seal or adding shelves, depending on the Kegerator model.
Next, you’ll need to assemble the CO2 tank and regulator. You’ll need to attach the regulator to the tank and attach the keg to the regulator. Once you’ve assembled the hardware, you’ll need to set the CO2 levels.
This is an essential step that ensures your beer will dispense at the desired pressure and carbonation levels.
The last step is to attach the beer line to the tap and to the keg. Make sure to adjust the length of the beer line so that it’s just long enough to reach the keg from the tap, as too-long beer lines will cause the beer to become over-carbonated.
Once all of these steps are complete, you’ll be ready to enjoy a cold one on tap with your new Kegerator!
How far apart are beer taps?
Beer taps typically require a minimum of 12 inches apart. It is important to measure the distance between the faucet and handle to ensure your taps are set up correctly. Some places may require the taps to be further apart than 12 inches due to the size of the room, which will require additional planning and adjustments.
The spacing between the taps depends on the size of the keg, the layout of the beer dispensing system, and how much room is available. It is best to consult a professional to ensure you are maximizing the amount of space while allowing adequate beer flow.
Additionally, the height of the faucet should typically be up to 15 inches so the beer will pour down correctly.
