The Krups BeerTender B90 is a popular choice for craft beer lovers looking for a compact and efficient way to enjoy draft beer at home. This 5-liter mini kegerator is designed to deliver a fresh and frosty beer experience, offering convenience and style. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the BeerTender B90. Additionally, we will compare it with similar products, discuss compatibility with other beer products, and provide tips for optimizing its performance.

Installation of the Krups BeerTender B90

The Krups BeerTender B90 is easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced beer enthusiasts alike. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing the mini kegerator:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Unbox the BeerTender B90
   Carefully remove the BeerTender B90 from its packaging, ensuring that all parts are accounted for. You should find the main unit, a tap system, and the power adapter.
2. Place the Unit on a Stable Surface
   Place the BeerTender B90 on a flat, stable surface near an electrical outlet. Ensure it has enough ventilation space around it to keep the compressor cool.
3. Install the Beer Tap
   Attach the beer tap to the front of the unit by aligning it with the designated slot. Secure the tap system in place by turning it clockwise until it locks.
4. Connect the Beer Keg
   Insert your compatible 5-liter keg into the BeerTender B90. Make sure the keg is properly seated and that the connection port is aligned with the keg nozzle.
5. Plug In the Unit
   Connect the power adapter to the BeerTender B90 and plug it into the electrical outlet. Turn the unit on by pressing the power button.
6. Adjust the Temperature
   Use the control panel to adjust the temperature to your preferred setting. Typically, a temperature of 36°F to 40°F (2°C to 4°C) is ideal for serving beer.

Tools Required

• Krups BeerTender B90 unit
• Compatible 5-liter keg
• Power adapter
• Stable surface for placement
• Flathead screwdriver (if needed for tap installation)

Maintenance of the Krups BeerTender B90

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the BeerTender B90 performs at its best. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your mini kegerator running smoothly.

Cleaning the BeerTender B90

1. Clean the Beer Tap
   Regularly clean the beer tap after each use. Disassemble the tap system and rinse it with warm water. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap solution and let the parts soak for 10-15 minutes.
2. Sanitize the Keg Connector
   When changing kegs, clean the keg connector thoroughly. Use a sanitizing solution to ensure there’s no residue that could affect the flavor of the beer.
3. Defrost the Unit
   If the BeerTender B90 has accumulated frost inside, unplug the unit and let it defrost naturally. Do not use sharp objects to scrape off the frost.
4. Check the Condenser Coils
   Periodically check the condenser coils at the back of the unit for dust or dirt buildup. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently clean the coils.
5. Replace the Water Filter
   The BeerTender B90 does not include a water filter, but if you live in an area with hard water, consider using distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.

Storage Tips

• When not in use, store the BeerTender B90 in a dry, cool area.
• If storing the unit for extended periods, unplug it and clean the tap and keg system thoroughly before storage.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

While the Krups BeerTender B90 is relatively easy to set up, users may encounter a few common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to address these problems.

Issue 1: Beer is Not Dispensing Properly

• Solution: Ensure that the keg is correctly inserted into the unit and that the tap is fully engaged. If beer is not flowing, check for air bubbles or obstructions in the hose or tap system.

Issue 2: The Beer is Too Warm

• Solution: Check the temperature setting on the control panel. If it’s too high, adjust it to a cooler setting. Additionally, ensure the unit is in a well-ventilated area and not exposed to heat sources like direct sunlight.

Issue 3: The BeerTenders B90 is Not Turning On

• Solution: First, check the power outlet by plugging in another device. If the unit still doesn’t turn on, inspect the power cord for any visible damage or frays. Contact customer support if the issue persists.

Issue 4: Leaking Beer from the Tap

• Solution: A leaky tap could be due to improper attachment or a worn-out seal. Ensure the tap is tightly secured and check the seal for any damage. If needed, replace the rubber seal around the tap system.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Krups BeerTender B90 can be customized to suit different beer preferences. Here are some tips to enhance its performance and optimize your beer-drinking experience.

Temperature Control

• Cold Beer Consistency: Ensure the BeerTender B90 stays between 36°F to 40°F (2°C to 4°C) for optimal beer flavor. The mini kegerator is designed to keep beer at a steady cool temperature, but fluctuations can affect the taste.

Selecting the Right Keg

• Use Compatible Kegs: The BeerTender B90 is specifically designed to work with 5-liter kegs. Ensure that you are using the correct brand and type of keg, as certain brands may not fit properly in the unit.
• Opt for Fresh Kegs: Always use fresh kegs to get the best taste. Avoid using kegs that have been sitting for too long, as beer quality can deteriorate over time.

Comparison with Similar Products

Krups BeerTender B90 vs. Heineken Mini Keg System

• Size and Capacity: The Krups BeerTender B90 holds 5 liters of beer, while Heineken’s Mini Keg System typically holds 5 liters as well. Both are compact but offer similar capacities.
• Temperature Control: The BeerTender B90 features a specific temperature range (36°F to 40°F), while Heineken’s system maintains a fixed temperature which may not be as customizable.
• Design: The BeerTender B90 has a sleek and modern design, ideal for any home bar setup. In comparison, the Heineken Mini Keg System often has a more robust, utilitarian design.

Krups BeerTender B90 vs. Fizzics DraftPour

• Design: The Fizzics DraftPour uses a unique beer pressure system for carbonation, while the BeerTender B90 relies on standard keg pressurization.
• Performance: Both systems offer good beer quality, but the BeerTender B90 is easier to maintain and operates with fewer components than the Fizzics DraftPour, making it a more straightforward option for beginners.

Compatibility with Other Beer Products

The Krups BeerTender B90 is designed to be used with 5-liter kegs from select breweries, including Heineken, Amstel, and Paulaner. It works seamlessly with compatible kegs and is ideal for beer enthusiasts who enjoy specific brands in draft form. However, it may not be compatible with larger kegs or keg systems from other brands.

Additionally, the BeerTender B90 is designed to integrate with beer dispensers that are designed for home use. It is important to ensure that the keg system you are using aligns with the BeerTender’s connection system to avoid any issues.