The Krups BeerTender B90, a home draft system, has been a popular choice for beer enthusiasts who seek the experience of fresh draft beer at home. In 2025, however, new competitors and advancements in home draft technology have raised the question: Is the Krups BeerTender B90 still worth it? This article will analyze the performance, maintenance, and compatibility of the BeerTender B90 to help you determine whether it remains a top option for your home beer dispensing needs.

Installation of the Krups BeerTender B90

Setting up the Krups BeerTender B90 is a relatively simple process, but it does require careful attention to detail to ensure optimal performance.

Step-by-Step Installation Process:

1. Unbox the Unit: Begin by removing the BeerTender B90 from the box. Ensure that all components, including the unit itself, power cord, tap handle, and drip tray, are present.
2. Set Up the Base: Place the BeerTender B90 on a flat surface, ideally near a power outlet. Ensure there is adequate space around the unit for ventilation.
3. Connect the Beer Keg: Insert the keg into the BeerTender B90. The unit is compatible with Heineken and Amstel Light mini kegs, which are designed to fit snugly into the system.
4. Connect the CO2 Cartridge: The BeerTender B90 uses a CO2 cartridge to maintain the beer’s pressure. Carefully attach the CO2 cartridge according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper pressure is applied.
5. Power On the Unit: Plug the BeerTender B90 into a power outlet and turn the power button on. The cooling unit will begin to chill the beer to the ideal serving temperature.
6. Test the System: Once the unit is powered on, press the tap handle to check for proper flow and beer quality. Make sure the beer is being dispensed at the correct temperature.

Adjustment and Maintenance

Maintaining your BeerTender B90 will ensure that it continues to perform optimally, delivering fresh and cold beer every time.

Regular Adjustments for Optimal Performance:

• Temperature Settings: The BeerTender B90 is equipped with an integrated cooling system, but it may need occasional adjustment to ensure the beer is served at the perfect temperature. Aim for a serving temperature between 37-41°F (3-5°C). If the beer is too warm or too cold, adjust the temperature by turning the unit off and on or adjusting the settings if available.
• CO2 Cartridge Replacement: Over time, the CO2 cartridge will deplete. Make sure to replace it when you notice the pressure dropping or when the beer no longer flows smoothly. Always use the manufacturer’s recommended CO2 cartridges for optimal results.

Maintenance Tips:

• Cleaning the Unit: Regularly clean the BeerTender B90 to prevent buildup and ensure optimal beer flavor. Use warm water and a mild detergent to clean the tap handle and drip tray after each use. Ensure that all components are dried thoroughly before reassembling.
• Keg Cleaning: Always clean and sanitize the mini kegs after each use. If you’re not using the kegs for an extended period, store them in a cool, dry place to avoid contamination.
• Dealing with Residual Beer: If beer is left in the keg for more than a few days, it can become stale. If you plan to store a keg for any length of time, ensure that the CO2 cartridge is removed and the keg is kept sealed properly.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

While the BeerTender B90 is designed to be user-friendly, you may encounter some common setup issues. Below are solutions for the most frequent problems.

Beer Not Dispensing Correctly:

• Possible Cause: Insufficient CO2 pressure or a loose connection.
• Solution: Ensure the CO2 cartridge is securely in place and replace it if necessary. Also, check the hose connections to make sure there are no leaks.

Beer Too Warm or Too Cold:

• Possible Cause: Temperature settings or inadequate cooling.
• Solution: Check the temperature of the BeerTender B90. If it’s too warm, the cooling unit might need more time to chill. If it’s too cold, adjust the temperature settings or turn the unit off for a few minutes to allow the beer to warm up slightly.

Beer Foam Issues:

• Possible Cause: Over-pressurized CO2 or incorrect keg placement.
• Solution: Adjust the CO2 pressure and ensure the keg is inserted correctly. Too much pressure can cause excessive foam, while too little pressure can lead to poor flow.

Customization and Optimization

For beer aficionados who are keen on optimizing their experience, the Krups BeerTender B90 offers some potential for customization. However, it is somewhat limited compared to more advanced draft systems.

Customizing the BeerTender B90 for Enhanced Experience:

• Cooling Efficiency: Consider placing the BeerTender B90 in a cooler environment to improve the cooling efficiency, especially in warmer climates. A lower ambient temperature can help the unit maintain its cooling performance.
• Alternative Beer Options: While the BeerTender B90 is designed for Heineken and Amstel mini kegs, there are third-party adapters available that may allow you to use different types of kegs. Be aware that using non-compatible kegs could impact the system’s functionality and performance.

Optimizing Beer Flow:

• Cleanliness is Key: Regular cleaning, especially of the tap and beer lines, will ensure a smoother pour and better taste. Build-up in these areas can result in inconsistent beer flow and poor flavor quality.
• Correct Pressure Settings: Ensure that the CO2 pressure is set according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal flow and minimal foam production.

Comparison with Similar Products

When evaluating the Krups BeerTender B90 against other home draft systems, it is important to consider the specific needs of the user, including keg compatibility, beer quality, and ease of use.

Krups BeerTender B90 vs. Philips PerfectDraft HD3720/25:

• Keg Compatibility: The Philips PerfectDraft HD3720/25 supports a wider variety of kegs, including more brands beyond Heineken and Amstel, providing greater flexibility for users.
• Cooling Capacity: The Philips PerfectDraft also offers slightly more robust cooling features, maintaining a consistent temperature over longer periods.
• CO2 Cartridge vs. Built-in CO2: The Krups BeerTender B90 requires a CO2 cartridge, while the Philips PerfectDraft uses a built-in CO2 system, eliminating the need for regular cartridge replacements.

Krups BeerTender B90 vs. Fizzics DraftPour:

• Design: The Fizzics DraftPour is a more portable option that uses sound waves to enhance the beer’s carbonation and pour, creating a smoother and more consistent flow. The BeerTender B90, on the other hand, is more geared toward home setups with a fixed system and mini kegs.
• Performance: The BeerTender B90’s cooling system is more effective for longer beer preservation, but it lacks the versatility of the Fizzics DraftPour in terms of beer styles and keg options.

Compatibility with Other Related Beer Products

The Krups BeerTender B90 is specifically designed to work with Heineken and Amstel mini kegs. However, its compatibility with other beer products is limited.

• Beer Kegs: The BeerTender B90 works only with select mini kegs, which limits the choice of beer brands compared to more versatile draft systems. It is not compatible with standard-sized kegs or homebrew kegs.
• Beer Dispensers: If you already own a home draft system, the BeerTender B90 may not be compatible with other dispensers, as it uses a specific CO2 pressure system and keg design.
• Kegerators: If you’re looking for a more extensive home draft system that works with a variety of keg sizes, a kegerator might be a better choice. The Krups BeerTender B90 lacks the flexibility and capacity of a full kegerator.

Conclusion

In 2025, the Krups BeerTender B90 remains a solid option for those who enjoy Heineken or Amstel Light and want the experience of draft beer at home. While newer systems offer more versatility, such as compatibility with a wider range of kegs and more advanced cooling options, the BeerTender B90 still provides excellent value for users looking for a simple, compact solution. With proper maintenance and care, it can continue to provide refreshing, cold beer for years to come.