Everything You Need to Know About Setting up a Kegerator with Nitrogen for Two Kegs

The Kegerator Kit for Two Kegs with Nitrogen/Beer Gas is an all-in-one solution for dispensing beer at home or in commercial settings. The kit includes everything needed to set up and maintain a kegging system with two kegs. The primary nitrogen regulator can provide up to 60psi, which is sufficient for dispensing beer with nitrogen or beer gas. The two thermoplastic vinyl hoses are 100 feet in length, providing enough flexibility to move the kegs around without the need for additional extensions. The kit also includes two UBC keg couplers, each with a stainless steel probe, which connects the kegs to the hoses. Six stainless steel gear clamps are included to ensure a tight and secure connection between the hoses and couplers.

One of the key benefits of using nitrogen/beer gas for dispensing beer is that it provides a smoother and creamier mouthfeel compared to carbon dioxide. Additionally, nitrogen doesn't dissolve in a beer like carbon dioxide, which can affect the beer's flavor and aroma. This makes nitrogen a popular choice for serving stouts, porters, and other beers with a creamy and rich texture.

Setting up the Kegerator Kit for Two Kegs with Nitrogen/Beer Gas is relatively simple and straightforward. The first step is to assemble the components according to the instructions provided with the kit. Once assembled, the kegs are connected to the UBC couplers, and the hoses are connected to the couplers and the air distributor. The air distributor ensures that the nitrogen/beer gas is evenly distributed between the two kegs. The gauge guard protects the primary nitrogen regulator from accidental bumps or falls, which can damage the regulator.

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of the Kegerator Kit, regular maintenance and care are essential. The hoses should be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria growth and mold buildup. The couplers and fittings should also be cleaned and sanitized before use. The primary nitrogen regulator should be checked periodically to ensure that it's functioning correctly and calibrated to the desired pressure. It's also essential to store the kit in a dry and cool place to prevent rust and corrosion of the components.

In summary, the Kegerator Kit for Two Kegs with Nitrogen/Beer Gas is an excellent choice for dispensing beer with a smooth and creamy mouthfeel. The kit includes all the necessary components for setting up and maintaining a kegging system at home or in commercial settings. Regular maintenance and care of the components are crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the kit.

Let's take a look at the various components of the kit and their specific features and functions.

1. Primary Nitrogen Regulator: This regulator is used to regulate the flow of nitrogen/beer gas from the tank to the keg. The regulator can handle up to 60psi of pressure, making it ideal for dispensing beers that require higher carbonation levels.

2. Thermoplastic Vinyl Hose: The kit comes with two 100-foot coils of red PVC tubing for air supply, measuring 5/16" ID and 9/16" OD. The hoses connect the kegs to the couplers and air distributor, allowing the beer to flow from the kegs to the tap.

3. UBC Keg Couplers: The kit includes two D-type UBC couplers with stainless steel probes. These couplers are designed to fit most American-style kegs and ensure a secure connection between the keg and the hose.

4. Fittings: The kit comes with six stainless steel gear clamps that fit hoses with a diameter of 5/16-3/8". These fittings ensure a tight seal between the hoses and couplers, preventing leaks and ensuring optimal performance.

5. Air Distributor: The two-way air distributor is designed to evenly distribute the nitrogen/beer gas between the two kegs, ensuring consistent carbonation levels and preventing over-carbonation or foaming.

6. Gauge Guard: The Tapright gauge guard protects the primary nitrogen regulator from accidental bumps or falls, which can damage the regulator and affect its performance.

The Benefits of Using Nitrogen/Beer Gas

Nitrogen/beer gas is a popular carbonating option for beers that require a smooth and creamy mouthfeel, such as stouts, porters, and cream ales. Here are some of the advantages of using nitrogen/beer gas over other carbonating options like CO2:

1. Smooth and Creamy Mouthfeel: Nitrogen/beer gas produces smaller bubbles than CO2, resulting in a smoother and creamier mouthfeel. This enhances the beer's flavor and aroma, making it more enjoyable to drink.

2. Less Carbonation: Nitrogen/beer gas produces less carbonation than CO2, which is ideal for beers that require lower carbonation levels. This also reduces the risk of over-carbonation, which can cause foaming and affect the beer's taste.

3. Longer Shelf Life: Nitrogen/beer gas can help extend the shelf life of certain beers by preventing oxidation and staling. This is because nitrogen is an inert gas that does not react with the beer's compounds.

How Nitrogen Affects the Beer's Flavor and Aroma

Nitrogen can have a significant impact on the beer's flavor and aroma. When nitrogen is used to carbonate beer, it produces smaller bubbles that enhance the beer's creaminess and smoothness. This can make the beer taste richer and fuller, with a velvety mouthfeel. Nitrogen can also enhance the beer's aroma by releasing more of the beer's aromatic compounds, resulting in a more pronounced and enjoyable aroma.

Comparing Nitrogen/Beer Gas with Other Carbonating Options

Nitrogen/beer gas is just one of many carbonating options available for beer. Here's how it compares to other popular options like CO2:

1. Nitrogen/Beer Gas: Produces smaller bubbles, resulting in a smoother 

   and creamier mouthfeel. Nitrogen doesn't dissolve in beer as readily as CO2, so it's often used in beers with lower carbonation levels. The use of nitrogen also enhances the aroma and flavor profile of the beer, making it ideal for stouts, porters, and other dark beers.

2. CO2: Produces larger bubbles and a sharper, more prickly mouthfeel. CO2 dissolves easily in beer, allowing it to create a higher level of carbonation. CO2 can be used for all beer styles, but it's particularly well-suited for hop-forward beers like IPAs and pilsners.

3. Overall, the choice of carbonating option depends on personal preference and the beer style being served. Many beer enthusiasts appreciate the smooth mouthfeel and enhanced flavor profile that nitrogen/beer gas provides, while others prefer the sharper carbonation of CO2. It's worth experimenting with different carbonating options to find the perfect fit for your kegerator kit and beer selection.