18 Taps Beer Tower: A Guide to Choosing and Installing Your Beer Dispensing System

Tap towers are an essential part of any bar or pub that serves draft beer. The insulated box within the draft beer tower houses the glycol lines, maintaining optimal temperature for the beer. They are responsible for delivering beer from the keg to the glass, and they come in various styles and materials to suit different needs and preferences. Tap towers also play a crucial role in the overall customer experience, as they are often the centerpiece of the bar and can make a lasting impression on patrons.

Draft beer is a popular choice among customers due to its freshness and unique flavor profile. Tap towers are an integral part of the draft beer system, as they help to regulate the flow of beer and maintain its quality. Different types of tap towers are available, including single, double, and triple tap towers, depending on the number of beers that need to be served. Materials such as brass, stainless steel, and a chrome finish are commonly used to construct tap towers, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

When choosing a tap the right draft beer tower, however, it is important to consider factors such as the type of beer being served, the volume of beer being dispensed, and the overall aesthetic of the bar or pub. A well-designed tap tower can enhance the overall customer experience, while a poorly designed one can detract from it.

Understanding Your Beer Dispensing Needs

When it comes to selecting a beer dispensing system, understanding your specific needs is crucial. Start by considering the number of beer lines you require. If you plan to serve multiple types of draft beer, a system with several lines will be necessary. The type of beer you’ll be serving also plays a role; some beers may require specific dispensing conditions to maintain their quality and flavor.

Space constraints are another important factor. A double pedestal draft beer tower is an excellent option for commercial or heavy-duty use, as it provides ample space for multiple beer lines and faucets. This two pedestal setup not only enhances efficiency but also adds a professional touch to your bar or pub.

Additionally, think about the cooling system you’ll need to keep your beer at the optimal temperature. Glycol cooling systems are a popular choice due to their efficiency and effectiveness. These systems ensure that your beer remains at the perfect temperature from the keg to the glass, providing a consistently enjoyable experience for your customers.

Types and Styles of Draft Beer Tap Towers

Tap towers come in a variety and wide selection of types and styles, each with its own unique features and benefits. In this section, we will discuss the different types and styles of tap towers available on the market.

Material and Finishes

Tap towers are available in a range of materials and finishes to suit different preferences and decor styles. Some of the most common materials used for tap towers include stainless steel, brass, chrome, and polished brass. Each material has its own unique look and feel, with stainless steel being the most durable and easy to clean, brass offering a classic and elegant look, and metal and chrome providing a sleek and modern appearance.

Tap towers can also come in a range of finishes, such as polished stainless steel, brushed stainless steel, chrome plated, and polished brass. The finish of a tap tower can affect its appearance and durability, with a mirror-like quality or finish being highly desirable for many restaurant customers.

Dimensions and Design

Tap towers come in different dimensions and designs to suit different needs and preferences. The most common size for a standard draft beer tower is 14” tall with a 3” diameter column, but there are many other sizes available as well. Some draft beer tap towers are designed to accommodate a specific number of taps, such as a 3” column with one or two taps, while others can accommodate up to six taps or more. The quantity of faucets per side is crucial in the overall design and functionality of the product, as it determines the number of beers that can be served simultaneously.

Tap towers can also come in different styles, such as T-style, L-style, and U-style, with each style offering its own unique benefits. T-style towers are the most common and offer a classic look, while L-style and U-style towers can be more space-efficient and offer a unique appearance.

Specific Brands and Models of Faucets

There are many different brands and models of tap towers available on sale in the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. The specific item can be picked up in store, emphasizing its physical nature and specifications. Some of the most popular brands of tap towers include Perlick, Banner, and Micromatic

Dual tap kegerators built with double pedestal towers and kegerators with multiple tap towers are popular choices for man caves and bars, while standard draft beer towers are a great choice for home use. When choosing a tap tower, it is important to consider factors such as the number of taps needed, the style and design of the tower, the amount of room in a walk-in cooler, and the material and finish that best suits your needs and preferences.

Cooling Systems for Beer Dispensing

Cooling systems are a crucial component of any beer dispensing system, as they ensure your beer is served at the ideal temperature. Glycol cooling systems are particularly popular for their ability to maintain a consistent temperature, even in high-traffic establishments. These systems use a mixture of water and propylene glycol to cool the beer lines, ensuring that your beer is always served at the perfect temperature.

Another option is air-chilled systems, which use a combination of air and refrigeration to cool the beer. While these systems can be effective, they may not provide the same level of temperature consistency as glycol systems, especially in larger or busier establishments.

When selecting a cooling system, consider factors such as the number of beer lines, the distance between the keg and the faucet, and the ambient temperature of your establishment. By choosing the right cooling system, you can ensure that your beer is always served at its best, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation Process

Installing a tap tower involves several key steps, with a typical setup outlined below:

1. Mount the Tap Tower: Securely attach the tap tower to your chosen location using the provided mounting hardware.
2. Connect the Beer Lines: After mounting, connect the beer lines. For a basic kegerator, attach the vinyl tubing to the shank with an Oetiker clamp. Ensure proper restriction for remote systems for optimal beer flow.
3. Install Tap Handles: Securely attach the tap handles to the tower, ensuring they're tightened to avoid loosening during use.

1. Pressure Test The Lines: Before connecting the keg couplers it's nice to pressure test the lines to verify there aren't any leaks.
2. Connecting The Keg Coupler: Connect the keg couplers to tap the kegs.
3. Testing the Flow: Turn on the CO2 tank and test the flow of beer through the tap. Adjust the pressure as necessary to achieve the desired flow rate.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining a tap tower is easy and straightforward, and can be done with a few simple steps: Customers can obtain detailed maintenance information upon request.

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean the tap tower and tap handles regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants. Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for beer lines and tap towers. Here are some Beer Line Cleaning FAQ’s
2. Insulation: If using an air-cooled system, ensure that the tap tower is properly insulated to prevent condensation buildup and to maintain proper temperature.
3. Glycol Cooled System: If using a glycol-cooled system, ensure that the glycol level is maintained at the proper level and that the glycol is changed every couple of years.
4. Hose Replacement: Replace hoses as needed to prevent leaks and ensure proper flow. Vinyl lines should be replaced every 12-18 months.
5. Professional Help: If experiencing issues with the tap tower or flow, seek professional help to diagnose and fix the issue.

Overall, tap towers are easy to install and maintain, and with proper care and maintenance, can provide years of trouble-free service.

Accessories and Add-Ons

Tap towers are not just functional, but they can also be stylish and customizable. There are a variety of accessories body styles and add-ons available to enhance the look and presentation of your tap tower.

One popular accessory item is the tap handle. Tap handles come in a variety of styles and materials, from simple plastic to elaborate wood carvings. They can be personalized with logos or designs to add a touch of personality to your tap tower.

Presentation is also important when it comes to tap towers. Adding LED lighting or a backlit sign can create a visually appealing display that draws attention to your tap tower. Some manufacturers even offer custom branding options to create a cohesive look with your business or event.

Overall, there are many accessories and add-ons available to customize and enhance your tap tower. Whether you want to add a personal touch or expand functionality, there are options available from a variety of manufacturers.

Budgeting and Cost Considerations

When budgeting for a beer dispensing system, several factors need to be considered. The cost of the tower itself, including the faucets, and cooling system, will be the largest expense. Additionally, consider the cost of installation, maintenance, and replacement parts. These ongoing costs are essential to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently.

The cost of the beer lines is another important consideration. The price can vary depending on the material and length of the lines. High-quality lines are crucial for maintaining the taste and quality of your beer, so it’s worth investing in good materials.

When requesting a quote, be sure to provide detailed specifications, including the number of faucets included, the type of cooling system, and any custom features you require. This will help ensure that you receive an accurate estimate and that your beer dispensing system meets your needs. By carefully considering your budget and cost considerations, you can ensure that your beer dispensing system provides a consistent and reliable beer dispensing experience.

Summary

Tap towers, also known as draft towers, beer towers, or beer tap towers, are an essential component of any draft beer system. The tower is the center of the system where beer is poured and served. Draft beer towers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and settings. They can be made of different materials, such as brass, chrome, or stainless steel. The majority of beer faucets are made of brass, with some polished to a sleek finish and some with a chrome-plated finish. Some beer towers are designed to be glycol-cooled, while others are air-cooled.

The beer tap tower can have a single tap or multiple taps, depending on the needs of the establishment. A one beer tower 18 or single tap beer tower, is suitable for small bars, while multiple tap towers are ideal for busy bars that serve a variety of beers. The number of taps also affects the size of the tower.

In addition to their functionality, tap towers also add a touch of style and convenience to the beer-drinking experience. They come in various shapes and designs, such as T-shaped, L-shaped, or cylindrical, and can be customized to match the decor of the establishment.

Overall, tap towers are an essential component of any draft beer system. They provide a convenient and stylish way to serve beer, and their same price and variety of shapes and sizes make them suitable for any establishment, from small bars to large breweries.

For questions or more information on tap towers please contact us here, and for more information from our beer education blog click here.

Cheers!

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