No beer is coming from tap?Updated a year ago
Are you experiencing difficulties with serving your beer? Fear not, as we've compiled a comprehensive troubleshooting guide to help you overcome any clogs or obstructions hindering the flow of your beloved brew. Below are some steps to diagnose and resolve common issues:
Check Tubing Connections: Ensure that the tubing is correctly connected to the Tap connector and not inadvertently attached to the CO2 regulator. Incorrect connections can impede beer flow.
Inspect Keg Handle: Confirm that the keg handle can freely move between open and closed positions. A stuck handle could indicate internal blockages.
Clean Beer Tap Thoroughly: If your beer tap seems clogged from previous use, it may disrupt beer flow. A comprehensive cleaning of the beer tap should alleviate this issue.
Consider Dry Hopping Effects: If you're fermenting a beer requiring dry hopping during secondary fermentation, hop particles may clog the tube entering the keg lid. Be mindful of this potential cause.
Additional Steps:
Vigorous Keg Shaking: Shake the keg vigorously to dislodge any hop pellets or debris obstructing the beer flow. This simple action can often resolve minor blockages.
Trub Removal: After each pour, ensure that you remove the trub, which is the sediment settling at the bottom of the keg. Attaching a trub container can facilitate this process and prevent blockages.
Ensure Hygienic Handling: Before delving into troubleshooting, prioritize cleanliness to prevent beer contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap or use hand sanitizer to minimize the risk of introducing unwanted bacteria or impurities into your brew.
Release Built-Up Pressure: Use the pressure relief valve, such as the Pressure Relief Valve from minibrew.io, to safely release any built-up CO2 pressure within the keg. This step is crucial for ensuring safe handling and maintenance.
Access Keg Interior: Unscrew the Smart keg lid carefully to access the interior components. By opening the keg, you gain necessary access for cleaning and inspection.
Disconnect Beer Tube: Unplug the beer tube from its connection point within the keg. This step is essential for thorough cleaning and maintenance of the beer delivery system.
Close Keg Lid: While the beer tube remains unplugged, securely close the Smart keg lid. This step prevents any accidental spillage or contamination during the cleaning process.
Prepare Cleaning Solution: Utilize the Chemsan solution included in the Minibrew Starter Pack or any suitable cleaning agent recommended for beer line maintenance. Prepare the solution according to the provided instructions for optimal cleaning efficacy.
Rinse and Soak Beer Tube: Prior to immersion in the cleaning solution, rinse the beer tube with tap water to remove any surface debris. Submerge the beer tube inside the prepared cleaning solution for a recommended duration of 5-10 minutes to thoroughly cleanse and sanitize the internal surfaces.
Reinstall Beer Tube: After the cleaning process is complete, reinstall the beer tube securely back into its designated connection point within the keg. Ensure proper alignment and tightness to prevent leaks or blockages.
Reconnect CO2 Cartridge: Once the beer tube is securely in place, reconnect the CO2 cartridge or regulator to restore pressure within the keg. This step is vital for maintaining carbonation and proper dispensing of your brew.
If the issue persists despite these efforts, it's advisable to inspect the keg coupler and tap for any signs of damage or leaks. Any identified problems with these components should be addressed promptly.
Should you find yourself still grappling with clogged keg woes, don't hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance. Our dedicated support team is here to ensure your brewing experience remains smooth and satisfying. Cheers to troubleshooting success!