Commercial beer systems
Adding beer taps to an existing commercial venue
Planning more beer taps at your venue? Review the existing system, keg storage, cooling, bar layout and installation scope before ordering equipment.
Adding beer taps can change more than the appearance of a bar. Before ordering fonts or arranging installation, give the system contractor a clear picture of the extra outlets, intended use and existing equipment.
The aim is to assess the proposed change as part of the complete dispensing system. That gives the venue a defined installation scope and helps avoid discovering missing work after the bar has been altered.
Describe the extra service capacity
Explain how many outlets you want, where they will be located and whether the change supports a wider product range, another service point or heavier trading. Describe busy periods and any functions or seasonal changes that affect demand.
Identify existing pouring or cooling problems before the expansion is designed. Ask the contractor to distinguish work needed to address those problems from work required for the additional taps.
Have the existing system assessed
Provide available drawings, service records and equipment details. Ask the contractor to assess the proposed change against the keg room, product lines, python, glycol equipment, gas arrangements and controls.
Confirm which components can remain and which need alteration or replacement. Request the basis for that recommendation and any assumptions about operating conditions. An additional tap position is only one part of the proposed system.
Where drawings are unavailable, arrange a site assessment before relying on a fixed equipment list. Routes, access and existing connections may need to be confirmed at the premises.
Plan the bar and keg handling together
Review keg storage and the way staff move and connect stock. Check that the proposed arrangement leaves suitable access for operation, cleaning and servicing.
Coordinate tap and font positions with the bar layout, drainage, cabinetry and any associated building work. Ask who is responsible for each connection and finish. Record what must be completed before the beer-system installer attends.
Agree on the work window and handover
Explain the periods when the venue can release the affected bar or system. Ask how installation and testing will be staged and what disruption to existing service is expected.
Confirm the commissioning and operating checks included in the quote, together with staff handover and records of the altered installation. Identify any follow-up assessment needed under normal trading conditions.
Review maintenance and cleaning arrangements for the expanded system. Beer-line cleaning and equipment servicing address different work; ask for each scope to be stated clearly so neither is assumed to be included in the other.
Scope the change with Beer Works
Beer Works provides commercial beer-system design and installation and glycol-system support across South East Queensland. Send your venue location, photographs, existing system details and proposed tap layout to start the discussion.
If the current installation also has faults, include them in the brief so service and repair work can be assessed alongside the expansion. Call 07 3204 0607 to discuss the next step.