A Guide to Beer Gas – Choosing the Right Gas for Your Beer
Gas plays a vital role in any beer dispense system. The correct gas mixture controls how beer flows from the keg, how it pours in the glass and even how the finished pint tastes and feels.
Different beers require different gas blends depending on their carbonation level and the style of pour the brewer intends. Using the wrong gas can lead to flat beer, excessive foam or an unbalanced mouthfeel.
Most breweries will recommend the correct gas mix for their beer. If you’re unsure which gas you need for your setup, please feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to advise.
All Hobbybrew gas bottles used for beer and drinks dispense are manufactured under strict quality control to ensure accurate gas mixes and high levels of purity.
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) – 100%
Bubble Size: Large
Flow: Lively
Mouthfeel: Crisp
Pure CO₂ produces larger bubbles and a lively carbonation level. This gas is typically used for drinks that require higher levels of carbonation.
Typical pairings
- Lagers
- IPAs
- Pilsners
- American style sours
- Highly carbonated drinks and soft drinks
CO₂ creates a more energetic pour and is commonly used where a crisp, sparkling finish is desired.
60/40 Mixed Gas (60% CO₂ / 40% Nitrogen)
Bubble Size: Medium
Flow: Dynamic
Mouthfeel: Balanced
60/40 mixed gas is one of the most commonly used gas blends for beer dispense. It provides a good balance between carbonation and smooth flow.
Typical pairings
- Craft lagers
- Pale ales
- Amber ales
- Session beers
- Ciders
Compared to pure CO₂, 60/40 produces a smoother pour while still maintaining enough carbonation to keep the beer lively.
30/70 Mixed Gas (30% CO₂ / 70% Nitrogen)
Bubble Size: Small
Flow: Cascading
Mouthfeel: Velvety
30/70 mixed gas contains a higher proportion of nitrogen. This creates a tighter head with very fine bubbles and a smoother, creamier mouthfeel.
Typical pairings
- Stouts
- Creamy ales
- Bitters
- Traditional smooth beers
This is the gas mix commonly used for drinks that require a cascading effect and a thick, creamy head.
Gas Bottle Information
Our gas cylinders operate on a simple deposit and refill system.
There are no rental charges or ongoing contracts.
Bottle deposit
A £60 refundable deposit is required when you first take a gas bottle.
This deposit is refunded when the bottle is returned or you can continue to exchange it for refills in the future.
Gas refill
Gas refills cost £35 per bottle.
Admin charge
A one-off £15 administration charge applies when the bottle is first issued.
Total upfront cost
£110 total
£60 bottle deposit
£15 admin charge
£35 gas fill
Once you have the bottle, future refills are simply £35 each time.
Collection Only
Due to transport regulations, all gas bottles are available for collection only.
Collection times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 4:00pm
There is no account required — simply complete a quick form when collecting your bottle and take your gas away with you.
Gas Capacity
One full 9 litre cylinder can dispense up to around 1100 pints (just over twelve 11-gallon kegs), making the gas cost as little as around 3p per pint.
Cylinder Specifications
- Cylinder height: 840mm
- Cylinder diameter: 160mm
- Water capacity: 9 litres
- Tare weight: approx. 13.7kg
Need Help Choosing the Right Gas?
If you’re unsure which gas blend is suitable for your beer or dispense setup, please get in touch. We’re always happy to help recommend the correct gas mix for your system.