The Ultimate Guide to Micromatic Glycol Chiller

Choosing the right Micromatic glycol chiller is pivotal for maintaining the perfect temperature for your draft beer system. With models like the budget-conscious MMPP4301-EP, the beginner-friendly MMPP4302, and the professional-grade MMPP4303-PKG, our guide helps you navigate the specifics, ensuring optimal investment for your cooling requirements.

Introduction to MicroMatic Glycol Chiller Range

The MicroMatic Glycol Chiller range offers a variety of models, each tailored specially designed to accommodate a specific audience and need. Here are some options to consider:

1. MMPP4301-EP: An excellent choice for the budget-conscious. Also, short beer trunk line runs.
2. MMPP4302: A perfect fit for beginners. Most popular
3. MMPP4303-PKG: A versatile all-rounder suitable for professionals. Larger Trunk Line Runs.

Unveiling MMPP4301-EP: The Budget-Friendly Choice

Specifications:

• Energy efficient with a thermally-efficient bath
• Large glycol capacity
• Digital thermostat for accurate glycol temperature display
• Sight glass for easy glycol level check

Pros of using a rotary vane pump:

• Superior insulation reduces energy consumption
• Less frequent compressor cycling extends compressor life
• Digital thermostat allows precise temperature control
• Reliable and easy-to-service rotary vane pumps

Cons:

• Single pump for glycol re-circulation might be insufficient for larger setups
• For Small Beer Run Lengths. Not very long.

The Micro Matic Pro-Line™ Beer Glycol Chiller Power Pack MMPP4301-EP is a budget-friendly choice that proves you don’t have to compromise on quality to deliver cold draft beer and save money. Here are some of its features:

• Energy-efficient design, with superior insulation and a large glycol capacity, reduces energy consumption and extends the compressor’s life
• Digital thermostat allows precise temperature control
• Sight glass makes it easy to check the glycol level
• Reliable rotary vane pumps are easy to service

All these features ensure the overall value of this model.

However, the single pump for glycol re-circulation might be insufficient for larger setups. Despite this minor drawback, the MMPP4301-EP remains a cost-effective solution that delivers reliable performance.

Exploring MMPP4302: The Perfect Fit for Beginners

Price: Mid-range

Specifications:

• Digital thermostat for precise glycol temperature readings
• Energy-efficient design with foam insulation
• Lift-off deck lid for easy servicing

Pros:

• Designed to accommodate long draw draft beer systems by beer industry experts, ensuring a reliable system. For 10 Tap System over 170'. Using a 10+4 Trunk Line 3/8 I.D
• User-friendly features and reliable performance
• Strong warranty coverage and after-sales support

Cons:

• Continuous pump operation may increase electrical cost

The Micro Matic Pro-Line™ Glycol Power Pack MMPP4302, which utilizes propylene glycol, is an ideal choice for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly features and reliable performance. Some key features of this propylene glycol power pack include:

• Digital thermostat for precise temperature control
• Energy-efficient design with foam insulation to improve compressor longevity
• Lift-off deck lid for easy servicing

These features make it a great option for those new to using non-toxic food grade antifreeze mixture in glycol cooler systems, specially designed to accommodate the food-grade antifreeze mixture alongside other options.

While the continuous pump operation may increase electrical costs, the excellent warranty coverage and after-sales support more than compensate for it. Users can rely on an 18-month warranty against defects and a one-year labor warranty from the date of sale.

Reviewing Micro Matic Pro-Line MMPP4303-PKG: The All-Rounder

Price: Premium

Specifications:

• Large glycol bath and quality insulation
• Digital thermostat for precise temperature control
• Assembled upper deck for easy maintenance
• For Long draw draft beer systems. Longer Beer Runs.

Pros:

• Designed by industry experts for optimal performance
• Large capacity bath reduces energy consumption and extends hp air cooled compressor life
• Excellent warranty coverage

Cons:

• Higher price point might not suit all budgets

The Micro Matic Pro-Line™ Power Pack MMPP4303-PKG is a versatile all-rounder that delivers top-notch performance. Known for their efficiency and reliability, these units are designed by industry experts to meet professional standards, offering impressive power pack features.

Features of the Micro Matic Pro-Line™ Power Pack MMPP4303-PKG include:

• Large glycol bath and quality insulation to reduce energy consumption and extend the compressor’s life
• Digital thermostat for precise temperature control
• Assembled upper deck for simplified maintenance

While the higher price point might not suit all budgets, the excellent warranty coverage and top-of-the-line features make this unit a worthwhile investment for those seeking professional-grade performance.

Air-cooled chillers vs Water Cooled Chillers

When choosing a glycol chiller for a draft beer system, the decision between water-cooled and air-cooled models is significant. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on specific needs, including installation environment, efficiency requirements, and cost considerations. Here's a comparison to help you decide which is best for a draft beer system:

Water-Cooled Glycol Chillers

Pros:

• Efficiency: Water-cooled chillers are generally more efficient than air-cooled chillers, especially in environments with high ambient temperatures. They use water from an external source (like a cooling tower) to dissipate heat, which can be more effective than air in transferring heat.
• Lower Operating Costs: Due to their higher efficiency, water-cooled chillers often have lower operating costs over time, especially in areas where water costs are low.
• Quieter Operation: These chillers tend to operate more quietly than air-cooled models because the cooling process is less reliant on fans.

Air-Cooled Glycol Chillers

Pros:

• Simpler Installation: Air-cooled chillers are easier and cheaper to install since they don't require a water source or additional cooling equipment. They expel heat directly into the air around them.
• No Water Usage: These chillers do not use water for cooling, making them a good choice in areas where water is scarce or expensive.
• Flexibility: Air-cooled chillers can be installed outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces, offering more flexibility in placement.

Cons:

• Less Efficient in Hot Climates: In environments with high ambient temperatures, air-cooled chillers may not be as efficient as water-cooled models because the hot air has a lower capacity to absorb heat.
• Higher Operating Costs: Due to their lower efficiency, especially in warm climates, air-cooled chillers can have higher operating costs.
• Noise: They can be noisier than water-cooled chillers because of the fans used to dissipate heat into the air.

Best Choice for a Draft Beer System

The best choice between water-cooled glycol chiller and air-cooled glycol chillers for a draft beer system depends on several factors:

• Location and Climate: In hot climates, a water-cooled chiller might be more efficient. However, if water usage is a concern, an air-cooled chiller would be preferable.
• Space and Complexity: If space is limited or if a simpler installation is desired, an air-cooled chiller might be the better option.
• Noise Considerations: For installations where noise is a concern, such as in indoor or residential areas, water-cooled chillers might be preferred due to their quieter operation.
• Cost: Consider both the initial installation cost and the ongoing operating costs. Water-cooled chillers might have higher initial costs but potentially lower operating costs, especially in warmer climates.

In summary, for a draft beer system, if efficiency and quiet operation are paramount and water usage is not a concern, a water-cooled glycol chiller could be the best choice. However, if you're looking for ease of installation, lower initial costs, and have limited water resources, an air-cooled glycol chiller would be more suitable.

Navigating Your Purchase: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide

When purchasing a MicroMatic Glycol Chiller, it’s important to consider their warranty coverage. The base warranty covers an 18-month period for parts against material and workmanship defects, and a separate one-year labor warranty. An extended warranty specifically covers compressors for an additional three and a half years following the initial 18-month warranty period.

Customizing the MicroMatic Pro-Line propylene glycol chillers to include additional functionalities, such as dual tap systems, may result in extra expenses due to the purchase of new equipment including towers, regulators, and couplers. However, these additional features can significantly enhance your beer dispensing experience, especially when it comes to maintaining the quality of beer by circulating propylene glycol through beer lines and being able to deliver cold draft to beer lines.

Always remember to select the most efficient unit for your specific needs. MicroMatic provides a BTU Calculator to assist you in making the right choice.

Summary

After an in-depth review of the MicroMatic Glycol Chiller range, it’s clear that these models offer excellent value, reliable performance, and user-friendly features. Designed by industry experts, these units are perfect for maintaining the temperature of your draft beer and enhancing your beer dispensing experience.

Whether you’re a homebrewer on a budget, a novice looking for easy-to-use features, or a professional seeking top-grade performance, there’s a MicroMatic Glycol Chiller for you. So, why wait? Pick the one that fits your needs best and enjoy the perfect pour every time!

For any other questions regarding glycol power packs or other dispensing needs. You can always reach out to us here at Renny's.

Cheers!