The pump on a keg serves a crucial role in dispensing the beer from the keg and into your glass or cup. It essentially acts as a mechanism to create pressure within the keg, allowing the beer to flow through the tap and into your glass.
When you activate the keg pump tap, it introduces air into the keg, which then pressurizes the keg. This pressure forces the beer to move from the keg, through the beer lines, and out of the tap. The pump tap typically uses a hand pump or CO2 cartridge to create this air pressure.
The purpose of the pump is to provide a convenient and portable way to serve beer from a keg. It allows you to enjoy draft beer at events or parties without the need for a permanent draft system or kegerator. The pump tap is easy to use and can be set up quickly, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings, tailgating, or any occasion where you want to serve fresh draft beer.
However, it's important to note that the introduction of air into the keg through the pump tap can lead to the beer going flat and stale over time. This is because oxygen in the air can cause the carbonation in the beer to dissipate, resulting in a loss of carbonation and flavor. As a result, once the keg pump tap has been activated, the beer inside the keg will start to lose its freshness.
To ensure the beer stays fresh for as long as possible, it is recommended to consume the keg within approximately 24 hours after tapping. This timeframe may vary depending on factors such as the temperature and carbonation level of the beer, but generally, it's best to finish the keg within a day to maintain optimal taste and quality.
In my personal experience as a brewer and beer enthusiast, I have used keg pump taps for various events and gatherings. They are a convenient option for serving draft beer without the need for complex draft systems. However, I always make sure to plan accordingly and estimate the amount of beer needed to be consumed within the recommended timeframe to avoid any wastage or loss of quality.
The pump on a keg is a practical tool for dispensing beer and enjoying draft beer on the go. It provides a portable and efficient solution for serving fresh beer, but it's important to be mindful of the limited shelf life once the keg has been tapped.