Best Beer Dispensers: Top Picks for Home
Introduction
Looking for the best beer dispensers to host your next party or wow your beer-loving guests? Look no further than this comprehensive guide, which will cover everything you need to know about beer dispensers.
From at-home beer dispensers to beer halls, this guide will cover it all. Learn about the different types of beer dispensers, where to buy kegs, and how to pour the perfect pint. Plus, stay tuned for the best Black Friday beer dispenser deals in 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just looking to up your hosting game, this guide has got you covered.
How We Test the Best Beer Dispensers
To ensure that only the best beer dispensers make it to our list of recommendations, our team has conducted thorough testing. We poured multiple pints using different compatible beers/kegs to guarantee a wide range of popular, quality brews are available for consumption. We assessed the cost, physical size, ease of pouring, and the overall quality of the build. Our team also evaluated the set-up process, including replenishing and cleaning the dispenser after use. We took into consideration the design, temperature control, and cooling system, as well as the eco-credentials of the product. We tested devices such as the PerfectDraft, The Sub, Fizzics DraftPour, Pinter, and Krups The Sub, among others. The devices were also assessed for their small footprint, maintenance, and battery power, where applicable.
What is a Beer Dispenser?
A beer dispenser, also known as a home beer dispenser or kegerator, is a device that allows beer to be dispensed from a keg or canister. It is typically designed for home use and can be placed on a kitchen counter or table. Some beer dispensers have a cooling system that keeps the beer at the optimum drinking temperature, while others use a built-in nozzle with dedicated CO2 cartridges for smooth pouring.
Beer dispensers come in a variety of styles and sizes, from small countertop models to larger freestanding units. They can also be customised with different tap towers, allowing users to pour multiple beers at once.
Many beer dispensers are part of a subscription service, which provides monthly top-ups to mini-kegs or cans. The largest kegs can hold up to eight litres, or roughly 14 pints. Alternatively, users can purchase their chosen beer from other sources to keep costs down.
Overall, beer dispensers are a great addition to any home, allowing users to enjoy a perfectly poured pint without having to leave the house. They are perfect for garden parties, matchday viewing sessions, or any social gathering.
What is Needed for a Draught Beer at Home?
To have a perfectly pulled pint of beer at home, one needs a beer dispenser. However, selecting the right dispenser is not enough. One also needs to choose the right beer that suits their taste. Some dispensers take kegs directly from brewers, while others require beer cans or bottles to be slotted or poured in.
Many services will come and collect complete kegs once they are done with them, which is a nice bonus for the ecologically-minded. Some dispensers, like PerfectDraft, will give you money off your next order when returning used canisters.
In addition to the dispenser and beer, one needs a pint glass to enjoy their drink in. Most retailers offer at least one glass as part of a bundle deal, so one is never short of something to drink out of.
The following table summarises some of the key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a beer dispenser:
| Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | The amount of beer the dispenser can hold, typically measured in pints, litres or cans. |
| Beer Style | The type of beer the dispenser is designed to accommodate, such as lagers, stouts or craft beer. |
| CO2 Cartridges | Some dispensers require CO2 cartridges to keep the beer fresh and carbonated. |
| Nitrosurge Cans | Some dispensers use nitrosurge cans to create a creamy head on the beer. |
| Hops | Some dispensers have a built-in hop infuser to add extra flavour to the beer. |
By keeping these considerations in mind, one can select the perfect beer dispenser to enjoy a perfectly pulled pint of beer at home.
Where to Buy Beer Dispenser Kegs?
Beer dispenser kegs can be purchased from a variety of retailers both online and in-store. Popular beer brands such as Heineken, Goose Island, Moretti, Guinness, Budweiser, Stella Artois, Birra Moretti, Leffe, Corona, and Tiger offer compatible kegs for their dispensers. Consumers can replenish their supply through beer delivery websites such as PerfectDraft, Beer 52, and Beer Hawk. Mini-kegs are also available for those who prefer smaller quantities. Check out our guide to beer subscription services for more options.
How to Pour the Perfect Beer
Pouring the perfect beer requires patience and practice. Follow these simple steps to pour a crisp, flavourful pint with a quality froth:
- Start with a clean glass that has been chilled in the fridge or freezer.
- Hold the glass at a 45-degree angle and pour the beer slowly down the side of the glass.
- Gradually straighten the glass as you pour, keeping the beer’s head at about an inch.
- Allow the beer to settle for a moment before topping it off with a final pour.
- Enjoy the perfect pour!
Remember, practice makes perfect. With time and patience, you’ll be able to pour the perfect pint every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Popular Brands of Beer Dispensers in the UK
There are several popular brands of beer dispensers available in the UK. Some of the most popular ones include PerfectDraft, Fizzics, Salter, Krups, and Beerwulf.
Choosing the Right Size Beer Dispenser for Your Home
When choosing the right size beer dispenser for your home, you should consider the amount of space you have available, the number of people you will be serving, and how often you plan on using it. If you have limited space, a smaller dispenser may be more suitable. However, if you plan on entertaining large groups of people, a larger dispenser may be necessary.
Using a Beer Dispenser for Other Types of Drinks
While beer dispensers are designed specifically for dispensing beer, they can also be used to dispense other types of drinks, such as cider, wine, and soft drinks. However, it is important to ensure that the dispenser is compatible with the type of drink you plan on dispensing.
Benefits of Having a Beer Dispenser at Home
There are several benefits to having a beer dispenser at home. Firstly, it allows you to serve beer at the perfect temperature, ensuring that it is always cold and refreshing. Secondly, it eliminates the need for bottles and cans, reducing clutter and making it easier to clean up. Finally, it is a great way to impress guests and make your home feel like a mini-pub.
Difference Between a Beer Dispenser and a Kegerator
While beer dispensers and kegerators both serve the same purpose of dispensing beer, there are some key differences between the two. Beer dispensers are typically smaller and designed for home use, while kegerators are larger and more commonly found in commercial settings. Additionally, kegerators are often equipped with additional features, such as temperature control and CO2 regulators.
Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Beer Dispenser in Good Condition
To keep your beer dispenser in good condition, it is important to clean it regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance. This may include cleaning the lines, replacing the CO2 canister, and checking for leaks. Additionally, it is important to store the dispenser in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent damage and ensure longevity.