Overall, kegging beer has several advantages over bottling, such as convenience and consistency in carbonation. However, there are also drawbacks to kegging, such as the initial cost and space requirements. Below, we will delve into the pros and cons of kegging beer compared to bottling.
Pros of Kegging Beer:
- Convenience: Kegging beer is often seen as more convenient than bottling. Once the beer has finished fermenting, it can be transferred directly into the keg without the need to clean and sanitize multiple bottles.
- Time-saving: Kegging beer can save a significant amount of time compared to bottling. Instead of capping and labeling individual bottles, you can simply connect the keg to the CO2 tank and carbonate the beer in a fraction of the time.
- Consistent Carbonation: With kegging, you have more control over the carbonation levels of your beer. You can adjust the CO2 pressure to achieve the perfect level of carbonation for your taste preferences.
- Easy Serving: Kegged beer is easy to serve, especially if you invest in a kegerator or keezer. You can pour a pint of beer with a simple tap handle, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Less Risk of Oxidation: When beer is bottled, there is a risk of oxidation over time. Kegged beer is sealed under pressure, reducing the risk of oxidation and ensuring the beer stays fresh longer.
Cons of Kegging Beer:
- Initial Cost: Kegging equipment can be expensive upfront, especially if you are starting from scratch. You will need to invest in a keg, CO2 tank, regulator, lines, and fittings, which can add up quickly.
- Space Requirements: Kegging beer requires more space than bottling. You will need room for the keg, CO2 tank, and other equipment, as well as a dedicated space for dispensing the beer.
- Portability: Bottled beer is more portable than kegged beer. It is easier to transport bottles to events, parties, or as gifts compared to hauling around a heavy keg and CO2 tank.
- Cleaning: While kegging may save time on bottling day, cleaning and maintaining kegging equipment can be more labor-intensive. Kegs need to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between batches to prevent off flavors and infections.
- Carbonation Issues: While kegging allows for more control over carbonation levels, it can also lead to issues if not done properly. Overcarbonated or undercarbonated beer can be a problem if the CO2 pressure is not adjusted correctly.