This is a Kegerator owners worst nightmare. You've had a few friends come over to test out your new Kegerator and on the first pour nothing comes out but froth. Below we will provide a comprehensive guide to prevent excess froth/foam in your drink.
Causes
It's important that we first identify the cause of the problem so we can can rectify the issue. Below we've listed, in order of regularity, the cause of frothy drinks. It is often the case that these problems are not created by a single cause and for that reason it is important to use your own intuition to come to solutions. Leave a comment below when you've identified your cause so we can keep this accurate!
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The keg has been unsettled: When you shake/move a keg excess pressure will build up, not too dissimilar to what happens when you shake up a can or bottle. Even the process of driving the keg from the shop too you're house can result in this!
Solution: This can be solved simply by giving the drink some time do settle before you start pouring, I use half an hour as a rule of thumb.
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Dispensing pressure is too high: This causes excess foam simply through pouring the drink too quickly resulting in the drink being disturbed releasing CO2.
Solution: You will become an expert at this in no time, all it takes is a slight adjustment in pressure until your drink starts to pour at a comfortable rate. Start on the lower side (5-6psi) and work your way up (10-12psi).
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Bad Pouring Technique: The way in which you pour your drink is a significant contributor to the levels of froth, with the main factors being angle of the glass and distance between the tap and glass.
Solution: When pouring aim to tilt the glass to a 45° angle with the tap as close to the glass as possible. When the glass hits 2/3 full level the glass. Adjust the distance from the tap to get your ideal level of foam, we recommend approximately 2 fingers worth.
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Temperature: The temperature of both the drink and the glass will effect both the taste of your drink and the levels of foam so it essential you get it right based on the drink in the keg. It is often difficult to keep your Kegerator at a uniform temperature as parts such as the fountain and tap are exposed to the elements, often making the first drink frothy before they can cool down.
Solution: Firstly, research the ideal temperature for what you're drinking (expect a post on this soon) and set the thermoregulator to that temperature. Aim to keep your Kegerator in a cool place, not exposed to sunlight and store glasses in the fridge prior to use if possible (freezer would be too cold).
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Over-carbonation: If you are carbonating your drink from scratch this becomes a greater risk as if the drink is left on a high pressure for too long it will dissolve excess CO2.
Solution: It is important to research the appropriate pressure for carbonating your drink and aim for that to prevent this from occuring.
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Dirty Beer Lines: If not cleaned it can lead to build up of all kinds of sediments. As a result the beer may be disturbed as it flows through the lines. This can also occur as a result of dirty cups.
Solution: Ensure that beer lines are cleaned between Kegs and in the case there is still issues, look to replace them. (Expect an article on cleaning to come soon)
- Beer line length: This shouldn't be an issue with the Brew 2 You Kegerator Kit as it provides 1.5m of beer line, but if your beer line is too short/long it can be difficult to regulate the appropriate pressure and temperature.
Solution: Replace/adjust beer line to the appropriate length.
Feel free to contact us if none of the above solutions have solved the problem and we can discuss potential other causes.