Help & Support
Drinks Dispense FAQs & Expert Advice
Whether you're setting up a home bar, running a microbrewery, or maintaining a commercial beer system, the right equipment and setup makes all the difference.
Below are answers to the most common questions we’re asked about beer dispense systems, fittings, gas regulators, cooling equipment and cleaning.
Home Bar Help
Why is my beer fobbing?
- Yeast build up in the lines
- Has the keg been degassed due to not replenishing the gas bottle?
- Check the seals are not worn on the keg connector
- Check the fob detector has been set in the correct mode
- Check you have the correct gas pressure
- Ensure your beer line is not too warm
- Clean your tap nozzle
How long does a keg stay fresh once opened?
When connected to gas and stored correctly, most kegs remain fresh for several weeks. Gas pressure prevents oxygen entering the keg and helps maintain carbonation.
What size beer line should I use?
Most home bar systems use3/16" or 3/8" beer line, depending on the setup and pressure requirements.
What gas do I need for a home bar?
We would suggest, if your kegs are stored at ambient temperature and you don't have any special cooling for the kegs. For lagers and ales use 60/40 gas, use 30/70 for Guinness and stouts. If your kegs are chilled, by means of a kegerator or cooling jackets, we would suggest CO2 gas.
What pressure should I set my regulator to?
Before you set your pressure, you must take into consideration the keg storage temperature, the type of beer, length of line and throughput.
Do I need a secondary regulator?
A secondary regulator allows you to run multiple kegs at different pressures from one gas supply, which is useful if dispensing different beer styles.
Cleaning & Maintenance
How often should seals and washers be replaced?
Seals and washers should be checked regularly and replaced if worn or damaged.
Old seals can cause leaks, pressure loss or poor beer dispense performance. Replacing them when needed helps keep the system running properly.
How often should I clean my beer lines?
Beer lines should be cleaned at least every 7 days to maintain hygiene and beer quality.
Over time, yeast, bacteria and beer residue build up inside the line which can affect flavour and cause foaming problems. Regular cleaning helps ensure the beer tastes exactly as the brewer intended.
How do I clean beer nozzles?
Sparklers and nozzles should be removed and cleaned regularly, especially in busy systems.
They can be soaked in cleaning solution and brushed to remove residue. Blocked or dirty sparklers can cause poor beer flow and excessive foaming. A dedicated nozzle cleaning kit is available here.
Why does my beer sometimes taste sour or stale?
This is usually caused by dirty beer lines or fittings.
If lines are not cleaned regularly, bacteria and yeast can build up inside the system and affect the flavour of the beer. Regular cleaning and maintenance helps prevent this.
Do beer taps and couplers need cleaning?
Yes. Beer taps, couplers and connectors should be cleaned regularly as part of routine system maintenance.
These components come into direct contact with beer and can collect residue over time, which may affect taste or hygiene.
Equipment & Parts
What is a secondary regulator?
A secondary regulator allows multiple beer lines to run at different pressures from a single gas supply.
This is useful when dispensing different beer styles or running several taps from one gas cylinder.
What is the difference between John Guest and DM Fit fittings?
Both John Guest and DM Fit fittings are push-fit connectors commonly used in drinks dispense systems.
They allow beer and gas lines to be connected quickly and securely without the need for tools.
What is a primary regulator?
A primary regulator is fitted directly to the gas cylinder and controls the pressure being supplied to the dispense system.
It ensures the correct gas pressure is delivered to the keg
Advice From Our Team
Our team has over 40 years experience working with beer dispense systems, installing and maintaining equipment for breweries, pubs and events across the UK.
If you're unsure which fittings, regulators or gas system you need, we're happy to help.