One Keg Carbed Up, the Other only half way?

[SEPDX_Brewer]

Hey Guys/Gals,

new on here and after a quick search around I didn't find an answer, so here goes.

I have a single tank with a single regulator (tap rite) and a three way splitter. One beer is an IPA in one Corny Keg, the other is a Stout in a Corny Keg. The IPA seems carbed up right 2.5 Vol, while the stout seems to be maybe 1 - 1.5 Vol. I have had the regulator set at 20 PSI at 37F for a few days after 12 PSI for 3 days wasn't getting me there quick enough, as one would expect. Is it possible the Stout Keg is leaking slowly while the IPA is not? I have sprayed Star San and see no bubbling on top of keg. Any help is appreciated !

- SEPDX_Brewer

 

[zachattack]

It could be a few things. If the FG of the stout is higher, it could take a little longer. Or if there's a little less headspace in the stout keg, that will slow things down as well.

 

[TAK]

In addition to what's already been mentioned...

If the stout is older (say you were aging out a big stout, or maybe you secondaried with some adjunct ingredient, or whatever) it could be the stout was still and had less CO2 in solution to start in comparison to the IPA. Grasping at straws here, but it's a possible explanation.

If both went on CO2 at the same time, but the IPA was already cold while the stout was at room temp, the IPA would have started taking up CO2 quicker.

Just a couple more ideas.

 

[william_shakes_beer]

swap the co2 lines. If it brings the low carbing keg up its the co2 lines. If it doesn't matter its the keg.

co2 lines: disassemble and clean the gas fitting that connects to the keg gas post.

Keg: disassemble and clean the gas post. Apply keg lube to all the o rings, especially the little tiny one at the top of the keg valve.

 

[SEPDX_Brewer]

Thank you Guys for all your great comments and insight,... I've come to the conclusion that there was a very mild leak, not easily detected on that keg. I've added some keg lube and will wait to see if it carbs up! Thanks again, SEPDX_Brewer

 

[zachattack]

As long as the regulator is capable of maintaining the pressure in the keg, I don't think a leak would translate to less carbonation.

 

[SEPDX_Brewer]

As long as the regulator is capable of maintaining the pressure in the keg, I don't think a leak would translate to less carbonation.

That is a good point! Because yes the regulator has been doing great in that regard. And if that is the case and lets say it still won't carb up then what else to look for? Possibly a clogged gas line? would that make sense with brand new lines?

 

[TAK]

To test an issue with the gas line, do this. Disconnect the gas line to your stout. Then pull the pressure release valve on the stout, enough so that you know it definitely has less head pressure than what's on your regulator. Hook the gas line back up. Can you hear the gas rush in? Yes, then your gas line is good. No, then there's your problem.