How to Tap a Keg

Step 1: Purchase keg Purchase a keg from a beer distributor or liquor store. Full kegs are around 120 pounds, so bring a friend who can help you carry it.
TIP: Many beer distributors will deliver a full keg and pick it up when it’s empty.
Step 2: Get the right tap Make sure you have the right tap–domestic beer and imported beer sometimes require different ones.
TIP: Taps can be rented from wherever you got the keg.
Step 3: Chill keg Kegs must be chilled before they’re tapped into, so place it in an ice-filled garbage can or other large container.
TIP: At minimum, the level of ice should cover the bottom half of the keg, with more poured over its top–nobody wants to drink warm beer!
Step 4: Let keg sit & settle Let the keg sit and settle for an hour or two.
Step 5: Insert tap Insert the tap into the opening at the top of the keg, aligning the notches in the keg and the tap. Make sure to keep the lever on the side of the tap raised.
Step 6: Push down on tap Push down on the tap.
Step 7: Lock tap in place Continue to apply a downward force, and then twist the tap clockwise until it’s locked in place.
Step 8: Lower lever Lower the lever.
Step 9: Pump tap & serve beer Pump the tap, serve the beer, and enjoy!
FACT: A full keg provides 165 12 ounce servings.
FACT: A full keg provides 165 12 oz. servings.

Lessons in this Guide