The Krups BeerTender B90 is a sophisticated and compact home draft beer dispenser, designed for ease of use and premium performance. For beer enthusiasts looking to enhance their at-home beer dispensing experience, understanding the dimensions and capacity of the BeerTender B90 is essential for ensuring that the product fits perfectly in your home setup. This guide will walk you through the product’s dimensions, its beer capacity, installation tips, troubleshooting common issues, customization options, and compatibility with other beer products.
Dimensions of the Krups BeerTender B90
The Krups BeerTender B90 is built to offer both portability and performance. Here are its key dimensions:
- Length: 15.7 inches (39.9 cm)
- Width: 10.6 inches (27 cm)
- Height: 11.8 inches (30 cm)
- Weight: 11 pounds (5 kg)
These dimensions make the BeerTender B90 a compact appliance, ideal for those who are limited on counter space but still want to enjoy draft beer at home. Its size ensures that it can fit on most countertops without overwhelming the space, while still providing ample storage for beer kegs.
Capacity of the Krups BeerTender B90
The Krups BeerTender B90 is designed to accommodate most 5-liter keg systems. This includes kegs from popular brands like Heineken, which are frequently used with this unit. The specific capacity details are:
- Keg Capacity: 5 liters (1.32 gallons)
- Maximum Pour Size: 1 liter per pour
This 5-liter keg capacity is perfect for a small to medium-sized gathering. It offers the convenience of having fresh beer on tap, without the need for larger, bulkier keg systems. The BeerTender B90 ensures that each pour is fresh and chilled, giving you a bar-quality experience at home.
Installation of the Krups BeerTender B90
Proper installation is essential for optimal performance of the BeerTender B90. The installation process is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps:
- Place the BeerTender B90 on a flat surface – Choose a stable, level surface near an electrical outlet.
- Attach the beer keg – Open the top lid of the BeerTender and insert a compatible 5-liter keg (e.g., Heineken). Ensure that the keg is seated securely in place.
- Connect the cooling system – The BeerTender features a cooling system that helps keep the beer at an optimal serving temperature. Simply plug the unit into an electrical outlet, and the system will begin cooling automatically.
- Check the dispensing nozzle – Attach the dispensing nozzle to the front of the unit, ensuring it is tightly secured to avoid leaks.
Once installed, the BeerTender B90 is ready to start pouring cold, refreshing beer.
Adjusting the Krups BeerTender B90
While the BeerTender B90 is designed for ease of use, there are a few adjustment settings that can improve your experience:
- Temperature Control – The BeerTender B90 has a built-in temperature control to ensure that your beer stays cold. The unit should ideally maintain a temperature between 36°F and 40°F (2°C and 4°C). If you find that the beer is too warm, ensure the unit is plugged in and fully cooled before dispensing.
- Flow Rate Adjustment – If you notice that the beer is pouring too quickly or too slowly, you may need to adjust the flow rate. Check the nozzle to ensure there is no obstruction and ensure that the keg is properly connected.
- Cleaning and Maintenance – Clean the BeerTender regularly to maintain optimal performance. The nozzle and keg chamber should be washed after each use to avoid any beer buildup that could affect the taste or flow of the beer.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
While the Krups BeerTender B90 is designed to be user-friendly, there are a few issues you may encounter during set-up. Here are some common problems and solutions:
1. Beer Not Dispensing Properly
- Possible Cause: The keg may not be seated correctly or the nozzle may be blocked.
- Solution: Ensure that the keg is properly positioned in the unit and that the dispensing nozzle is clear of obstructions. Clean the nozzle thoroughly and check for any signs of leaks.
2. Beer Temperature Too Warm
- Possible Cause: The BeerTender is not plugged in or not cooling correctly.
- Solution: Check that the unit is plugged into a functioning electrical outlet. If the cooling system is not working, it may require service or further troubleshooting.
3. Keg Not Fitting Properly
- Possible Cause: The keg may not be compatible with the BeerTender B90.
- Solution: Ensure that you are using a 5-liter keg compatible with the BeerTender B90, such as Heineken’s 5L Draught Keg. Other kegs may not fit properly or may cause issues with dispensing.
Customizing the Krups BeerTender B90 for Better Performance
The BeerTender B90 can be optimized for better performance with a few adjustments and accessories. Here are some ways to get the most out of your unit:
- Chill the Keg Before Insertion – For the best experience, pre-chill the keg in the fridge for several hours before inserting it into the BeerTender. This ensures that the beer remains cold throughout the dispensing process.
- Use Premium Kegs – For enhanced flavor and freshness, consider using premium craft beer kegs. These kegs provide a higher-quality beer and maintain better taste than lower-quality alternatives.
- Install a Co2 Regulator – Although the BeerTender B90 doesn’t require CO2 to function, some users prefer to install a small CO2 regulator for a more consistent pour and to extend the freshness of the beer.
Comparison with Similar Products
When comparing the Krups BeerTender B90 to other similar beer dispensers, a few key features stand out:
- Krups BeerTender B90 vs. Heineken DraughtKeg Dispenser: While both products are designed to work with Heineken 5L kegs, the BeerTender B90 is more versatile and offers temperature control, making it a better choice for those who want to serve a variety of beers. The Heineken DraughtKeg is specifically designed for Heineken and does not offer the same customization options.
- Krups BeerTender B90 vs. HomeBeerDraft System: The HomeBeerDraft System is a more expensive option that offers larger keg capacities, but it requires more space and more complex installation. The BeerTender B90 is more compact, user-friendly, and ideal for casual beer drinkers who don’t need a full-sized keg setup.
Compatibility with Other Beer Products
The Krups BeerTender B90 is compatible with several other beer-related products, especially 5-liter kegs from brands like Heineken. However, it’s important to note that the BeerTender B90 may not be compatible with larger kegs or those designed for more commercial purposes. If you are looking to use the BeerTender B90 with other brands, always check that the kegs are compatible in terms of size (5 liters) and tap connection.
Additionally, the BeerTender B90 works seamlessly with a number of beer glasses and accessories. If you are looking to elevate your beer-drinking experience, consider pairing it with premium glasses designed to preserve the beer’s flavor profile. The BeerTender’s dispensing system ensures that the beer maintains its quality and carbonation, so the right glassware can enhance the taste.