Bonneville

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So, I got a kegging system for Xmas. The basics are:

New 5 lb Aluminum CO2 tank, a brand new 5 gallon soda keg, a new dual gauge cornelius regulator, a gas side connector and tubing, a 10' long 3/16" i.d. dispensing set-up with connectors and cobra-head tap

Any advice and do's/don'ts for kegging the next batch? Sanitation advice? Common problems? Etc. It seems simple enough, but that's usually when the trouble starts....

Thanks.

knipknup

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A good leak check on the gas side is worth it. The gas is relatively cheap, but you don't want to be filling your tank again just because of a leak.

I also never leave my gas on to the keg. I turn the valve on at the regulator until the kegs are pressurized, then I turn it off and only open it every couple days to re-charge. I have had a leak or two, and this keeps the tank from pissing away.

Start saving, because you will be buying more and more kegging stuff in the near future.

Otherwise, happy pulling!

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abracadabra

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Check for leaks with soapy water or star-san solution. Look for bubbles to indicate the presence of leaks. It the lid doesn't seal rotate it 180* and try again.

If you want to force carbonate you really can't turn the CO2 tank off and recharge everyday or so unless you want to take a month to carbonate.

Check valves or gas valves with built in check valves are a good investment to keep from getting beer in your regulator.

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Chello

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+1 on the start saving and reason is several fold...

You'll want a kegerator...
You'll want several on tap at a time...
You'll need more kegs...
You'll drink more beer...
You'll brew more beer!!!

But keep going and never look back!

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Dave the Brewer

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I agree! I'm neck deep in brew stuff and I just roll in it like a pile of money, while my girlfriend (who appreciates my hobby and drinks my beer) goes crazy because I am constantly reading my brew books, and making recipes. I brew twice a month, every other weekend, every weekend, twice a weekend! I enjoy it so much, Ive got 5 carboys and a kegerator with 2 kegs. Five months ago I was just thinking about brewing my own beer and reading a little bit on the subject.

Ill stop throwing this thread I just got excited

OblivionsGate

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I love getting excited about brewing...I'm the same way, i started in late August 2007 and I've brewed 25, 30 gallons, have more on the way, have a two keg kegerator, a few books, the whole nine yards!

yay for over zealous brewers!

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Bonneville

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Thanks for the advice guys.

I also share your enthusiasm. I'm 6 months and 35 gallons into it. So long as the girlfriend enjoys the brews, everyone is happy.