Skip to main content

Beer pouring tips: Is your beer pouring foamy, too fast or too slow?

5 Beer Pouring Tips...

Don't touch that regulator (at least not yet)!

It's always frustrating when we get called by a bar/restaurant manager or owner because their beer is literally getting poured down the drain due to the beer not flowing right (in most cases, foamy) and after we get to the account and do some simple troubleshooting, we discover that the regulator has been adjusted in an attempt to overcome the problem. Yes, instinctual response for most bar employees is to adjust the regulator to try to fix the issue. However, adjusting the regulator may not always be the solution. Let's explore some reasons why beer pours foamy, too fast, or too slow, and discuss some beer pouring tips to overcome these problems.

Temperature

One of the most common reasons for foamy beer is incorrect temperature. Beer that is too warm will not only taste bad, but it will also be foamy. On the other hand, beer that is too cold may pour too slowly. It's important to maintain the proper temperature for each type of beer to prevent these issues. A good rule of thumb is to keep the beer temperature between 36 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. This is one of the crucial beer pouring tips to ensure a smooth pour.

Dirty Beer Lines

Dirty beer lines are another common culprit of foamy or improperly poured beer. Over time, beer lines can build up with organic and inorganic materials that can clog the lines and affect the flow rate. Regular cleaning of beer lines is important to maintain the quality and flavor of the beer. A professional draught system installer can help with cleaning and maintaining beer lines to ensure that the beer is poured properly. Following these beer pouring tips can save you from many headaches.

Line Restriction

Another factor that affects the flow rate is line restriction. If the beer lines are too narrow, it can cause the flow rate to slow down, leading to over-carbonation and excessive foaming. If the beer lines are too wide, it can cause the beer to lose its carbonation and become flat. It's important to use the appropriate size beer lines for each type of beer to ensure that it pours smoothly and maintains its carbonation level. These beer pouring tips are essential for keeping the right balance.

Regular Settings

As mentioned earlier, adjusting the regulator should not be the first step in solving issues with beer flow and we usually only have to make adjustments because the regulator was the easiest place for the owner, manager or bartender to try and correct the problem. It seems logical right? In most cases, WRONG! Making unnecessary adjustments to the regulator can cause unintended consequences such as changes in the temperature and carbonation level of the beer. Before adjusting the regulator, it's important to first check the temperature and the size of the beer lines. Ideally, regulator adjustments should be made by a qualified professional such as a brewery or distributor representative who knows what they are doing. These beer pouring tips can prevent many common mistakes.

If you're experiencing problems with foam...or beer that's pouring too slow or too fast, the regulator is not the first thing that you should adjust. Instead, check the temperature, cleanliness of the beer lines, or line restriction first. Working with a professional draught technician can help identify and fix any issues with your system, and ensure that your customers are served high-quality beer that pours smoothly and tastes great. By understanding the reasons why beer pours foamy, too fast, or too slow, and following these beer pouring tips, you can prevent these issues and provide the best possible experience for your customers.



Contact us today to schedule a beer line cleaning, complimentary system assessment or to repair CO2 leaks! And be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook or X.