Hey guys, I'm thinking of finally investing in a keg system, but I wanted to make sure I got all the pieces and of good quality as well! Any opinions/comments are greatly appreciated! I was going to go for a simple 5 gallon single keg system:
Northern Brewer has a $50 off $250+ purchase so I was going to get a most of the pieces from there:
- Keg:
http://www.northernbrewer.com/draft-brewer-reconditioned-ball-lock-keg I figured a used pepsi keg wouldn't make much difference. $99
- Gas connector:
http://www.northernbrewer.com/gas-connector-kit-bl-ball-lock-version- Beverage line:
http://www.northernbrewer.com/foam-free-tubing-kit-bl-ball-lock-version for both of the connections, anyone have any input? I was only going to purchase these 2 since they were already on this site, but I'm not sure if there are higher quality ones out there that make a significant difference. both lines $27 total
- CO2 tank:
http://www.northernbrewer.com/co2-cylinder-5-empty it's just a simple 5lb tank for $99 new. Should i think of getting a larger size if I want to expand, or for any other reason? Also, should I look for a used one elsewhere?
-CO2 regulator. Here's where I have the most questions. I've heard pretty negative things about the regulators on NorthernBrewer so I thought I'd get something from Micro Matic.
Now they carry co2 regs, nitro regs, and co2/nitro regs. Can a normal co2 reg not be used with beer gas? Also, if I eventually want to play with nitro/co2 mixes, can a co2/nitro reg handle that AND 100% co2 tanks?
I was also thinking of getting a dual primary or a double gauge. But I've heard it's actually better to get a single primary double gauge and just add additions later on so I won't be limited to 2 kegs maximum.
Right now I'm eyeing
http://www.micromatic.com/beer-regulators/primary-beer-co2-regulators(the premium primary double gauge regulator. Any input?
On a slightly related note, preparing for my future first kegging:
1) If I fill a keg only halfway before carbing, do I need to adjust pressure somehow?
2) will trub in a keg affect the pour/carbonation?
3) at first I'll be carbing at room temperature. I've heard I'll have to lower carbonatio nas a result to reduce excessive foaming since I won't absorb as much co2 in a warmer temp. Anyone have a good resource for room temperature carbing/force carbing?
As usual, thanks a lot for any insight you can share!
trub