Taking a keg tap off is a relatively simple process, but it's important to do it correctly to avoid any spills or mess. As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I have untapped countless kegs and can guide you through the process step-by-step.
1. Lift the handle: Begin by lifting the tap handle. Depending on the type of keg tap you have, you may need to pull the handle outwards before it can be lifted up. This is a safety measure to prevent accidental dispensing of the beer.
2. Turn counter-clockwise: Once you have lifted the handle, you will notice that the tap is still securely attached to the keg. To remove it, you need to turn it counter-clockwise. This can be done by twisting the tap in the opposite direction of the clock's hands.
3. Apply gentle pressure: While turning the tap, it may feel slightly tight or resistant at first. Apply gentle pressure and continue to turn until you feel it loosen up. Be careful not to use excessive force, as this could potentially damage the tap or the keg.
4. Pop-off the tap: As you continue to turn the tap counter-clockwise, you will eventually reach a point where it pops right off. This indicates that the tap is fully detached from the keg. You can now set the tap aside.
5. Secure the keg: After removing the tap, it's important to secure the keg to prevent any leaks or spills. If you have a separate keg coupler, reattach it to the keg valve and ensure it is tightened properly. If the tap itself serves as the coupler, make sure it is tightly closed.
6. Clean and store the tap: Once the tap is off and the keg is secure, take a moment to clean the tap. Rinse it with warm water and use a brush to remove any beer residue. This will help to maintain the tap's cleanliness and prevent any unwanted flavors in future uses. store the tap in a clean and dry place until it is needed again.
Personal experience: I remember one time when I was working at a beer festival, and it was my responsibility to untap the kegs at the end of the event. The process was quite straightforward, but the sheer number of kegs made it a bit overwhelming. However, by following the steps mentioned above, I was able to efficiently untap each keg without any issues.
To summarize, untapping a keg involves lifting the handle, turning the tap counter-clockwise until it pops off, securing the keg, cleaning the tap, and storing it properly. By following these steps, you can successfully remove the tap from a keg without any spills or mess. Cheers!