Empty beer kegs are an essential part of the brewing process for homebrewers and commercial breweries alike. These sturdy containers are designed to hold and dispense your delicious brews, and investing in high-quality kegs is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your beer.
At Beverage Craft, we offer a range of empty beer kegs for sale, starting at around USD $100 and going up to $200, depending on the model. The price of a keg is often determined by its size, with larger kegs being pricier. However, it's important to note that kegs are a long-term investment and can be reused for many batches of beer, making them a worthwhile purchase.
Once you've used a keg to dispense your beer, it's time to clean and prepare it for the next batch. The first step is to vent the gas in the keg to relieve any pressure that may have built up during fermentation. This can be done by pulling the relief valve on the keg, allowing the gas to escape. Safety should always be a priority when handling kegs, so make sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear.
After venting the gas, it's time to rinse out the keg to remove any sediment or leftover beer. This can be done by filling the keg with water and swirling it around to dislodge any debris. It's important to use clean, filtered water to avoid introducing any contaminants into the keg.
Once the keg is rinsed, it's time to clean it using a dye-free and fragrance-free detergent. Since kegs are made of stainless steel, cleaning is relatively easy. Simply add the detergent to the keg, fill it with water, and agitate the solution to ensure all surfaces are cleaned. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the keg after cleaning to remove any residue from the detergent.
Proper maintenance and care of your kegs are essential to ensure their longevity. After each use, it's important to clean and sanitize the keg to prevent the growth of bacteria or other contaminants. Regularly inspect the kegs for any signs of damage, such as dents or leaks, and address them promptly to prevent further issues.
It's also worth noting that once a keg leaves the brewery, it cannot be returned for a refund, even if it's still full. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that you have access to the proper tapping equipment before purchasing a keg. This includes a keg coupler or tap, as well as a CO2 system for pressurizing and dispensing the beer.
Empty beer kegs are an essential part of the brewing process and investing in high-quality kegs is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your beer. Proper cleaning and maintenance of kegs are essential to ensure their longevity and prevent the growth of contaminants. By following these steps and taking care of your kegs, you can continue to enjoy delicious, fresh beer batch after batch.
How Much Is An Empty Keg Worth?
The value of an empty keg can vary depending on various factors such as the size of the keg, the material it is made of, and the condition it is in. Here are some estimated price ranges for empty kegs:
1. Stainless Steel Kegs:
– 5-gallon (19-liter) keg: $70 – $100
– 15.5-gallon (58-liter) keg: $100 – $150
– 30-gallon (113-liter) keg: $150 – $200
2. Aluminum Kegs:
– 5-gallon (19-liter) keg: $50 – $80
– 15.5-gallon (58-liter) keg: $80 – $120
– 30-gallon (113-liter) keg: $120 – $180
It's important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on the market demand, the brand of the keg, and the overall condition. Additionally, some keg manufacturers may require a deposit when purchasing a keg, which can be refunded upon returning the keg.
Please keep in mind that selling or purchasing kegs may be subject to local regulations and restrictions. It's always a good idea to check with local authorities or consult a professional in the industry to ensure compliance with any legal requirements.
What To Do When Keg Is Empty?
When a keg is empty, there are several steps you can take to ensure it is clean and ready for the next use:
1. Vent the gas: Before doing anything else, it's important to relieve the pressure in the keg. This can be done by disconnecting the gas line and briefly opening the relief valve. Make sure to do this in a well-ventilated area to avoid any potential gas buildup.
2. Rinse out the keg: After venting the gas, it's time to rinse out the keg to remove any remaining liquid or sediment. Start by removing the keg's lid or disconnecting the liquid line. Then, fill the keg with water and swish it around to ensure that all surfaces are cleaned. You can also use a brush or sponge to scrub away any stubborn residue.
3. Clean the keg: Once the keg has been rinsed, it's time to give it a thorough cleaning. You can use a dye-free, fragrance-free detergent specifically designed for cleaning kegs. Apply the detergent to the keg's surfaces and use a brush or sponge to scrub away any remaining residue. Pay special attention to the inside of the keg, as this is where any contaminants may reside.
4. Rinse again: After cleaning, it's important to thoroughly rinse the keg to remove any detergent residue. Fill the keg with clean water and repeat the rinsing process, making sure to swish the water around to cover all surfaces. This step is crucial to ensure that no detergent flavors or residues are left behind.
5. Sanitize: To further ensure the keg is ready for use, it's recommended to sanitize it. You can use a food-grade sanitizer, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help eliminate any remaining bacteria or contaminants that may be present.
6. Dry and store: After sanitizing, it's important to let the keg air dry completely before storing it. This will help prevent any moisture or mold buildup. Once dry, reassemble the keg, ensuring that all parts are securely in place.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your keg is clean and ready for the next batch of your favorite beverage.
Conclusion
Purchasing an empty keg for your beer brewing needs is a cost-effective and practical solution. While the price of a keg may range from $100 to $200, it is important to consider the long-term benefits and convenience it offers. Kegs are made of stainless steel, making them easy to clean and maintain. After each use, a simple rinse with detergent is sufficient to remove any sediment and ensure a fresh and clean container for your next batch. However, it is crucial to have the proper tapping equipment before purchasing a keg, as they cannot be returned once they leave the brewery. With a keg in your brewing arsenal, you can easily keg your batches, vent the gas, and enjoy the convenience and efficiency of storing and serving your beer in a professional manner.
