The Krups BeerTender B90 is a state-of-the-art beer dispenser designed for home use, providing a professional-level experience when serving draft beer. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or someone who simply enjoys having a fresh, cold beer on hand, the BeerTender B90 delivers a perfect pour with ease. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about unboxing, setting up, and optimizing your Krups BeerTender B90 for the best performance.

Unboxing the Krups BeerTender B90

When you first receive your Krups BeerTender B90, the unboxing process is straightforward, but it’s essential to handle each component with care to ensure everything is intact and ready for setup. Here’s what you can expect when opening the box:

• Main Unit: The BeerTender B90 itself is a compact, sleek beer dispenser designed for easy countertop placement. It features a sturdy build and a user-friendly design.
• Beer Line (Tap Hose): The beer line is essential for connecting the keg to the dispenser. Make sure it’s free from any defects or damage.
• Drip Tray: The drip tray ensures that spills or overflows are contained. It’s removable for easy cleaning.
• Power Cable: Check the power cable for any visible signs of wear and tear. It should be long enough to reach your outlet without any issues.
• Instruction Manual: Always read the instruction manual thoroughly before starting the setup process. The manual provides essential information regarding safety precautions, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Tools Required

Before starting the setup of your Krups BeerTender B90, ensure you have the following tools and items on hand:

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Clean cloth or towel
• Compatible beer keg (such as Heineken or Amstel Light)
• Ice or chilled water (for cooling the BeerTender)
• Power outlet nearby

Setup Process

The setup of the Krups BeerTender B90 is relatively simple but requires careful attention to detail to ensure optimal performance. Follow the steps below to get started:

1. Position the BeerTender B90

Choose a flat surface for placing the BeerTender B90, ideally near a power source. The unit needs ample space for airflow and to avoid overheating, especially if it’s being used for long periods. Keep the unit away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

2. Install the Beer Keg

• Begin by carefully placing the keg of your choice (ensure it’s compatible with the BeerTender system) into the designated compartment in the BeerTender B90.
• Connect the keg to the beer line hose, ensuring that the fittings are securely attached to prevent any leakage.

3. Attach the Beer Line (Tap Hose)

• Attach the beer line to the keg tap. The tap should be correctly aligned to ensure a leak-free connection. Check both ends of the hose to verify a snug fit.
• You may need to use a screwdriver to tighten any screws or clips that secure the beer line in place.

4. Connect to Power

Plug the power cord into a nearby outlet. The BeerTender B90 will likely have an indicator light that signals when the unit is powered on. Make sure to check the manual to ensure you’ve properly connected the power source.

5. Start Cooling the Unit

Before pouring your first beer, allow the BeerTender B90 to cool down. Most users recommend filling the drip tray with ice or chilled water to speed up the cooling process. You can also let the BeerTender sit for about 15-30 minutes before use to ensure it’s at the ideal serving temperature.

Adjusting the BeerTender B90 for Optimal Performance

Once your BeerTender B90 is set up, you can make several adjustments to enhance its performance. These adjustments allow for the customization of the beer’s pour, temperature, and overall experience.

1. Adjust the Temperature Setting

The BeerTender B90 allows you to adjust the temperature of the beer. Typically, the optimal serving temperature for draft beer is around 35°F to 38°F (1.5°C to 3.3°C). Adjust the temperature according to your personal preference. Keep in mind that colder temperatures might result in less foam, while warmer temperatures may produce more foam.

2. Check the Beer Pressure

If your BeerTender B90 doesn’t pour smoothly or you encounter issues with foam consistency, you might need to adjust the pressure. A balanced beer pressure ensures the perfect flow rate and minimizes excessive foam. Refer to the manual for the ideal pressure settings, especially when switching between different types of kegs.

3. Set the Right Pouring Angle

Make sure the angle of the glass you’re pouring into is right. A 45-degree tilt is ideal to minimize foam, while a 90-degree angle may cause excessive froth. Experiment with different pouring angles to find the perfect one for your beer style.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

While setting up the Krups BeerTender B90, you may encounter a few issues. Below are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Leaking Beer Line

If you notice that beer is leaking from the beer line or keg, check the hose connections. Ensure that both ends are properly secured and tightened. If the leakage persists, replace the beer line, as it may be damaged.

2. Poor Pour Quality

If your beer is pouring with excessive foam or is too slow, it could be due to improper temperature or pressure. Double-check the settings to ensure they align with the recommended guidelines. Additionally, ensure the beer keg is correctly installed and the tap is fully open.

3. No Beer Dispensed

If no beer is coming out when you pull the tap handle, ensure that the keg is properly installed and connected. Check for any blockages in the beer line or tap, and confirm the keg has sufficient beer left to dispense.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring your Krups BeerTender B90 continues to function optimally. Follow these maintenance tips to keep the unit in top shape:

• Clean the Beer Line: After each use, it’s essential to clean the beer line thoroughly to prevent the buildup of bacteria or mold. Use warm water and mild detergent to flush the line, followed by a clean water rinse.
• Drip Tray Maintenance: Remove the drip tray after each use, clean it with warm, soapy water, and dry it before reattaching.
• External Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior of the BeerTender with a damp cloth regularly to keep it looking clean and free of dust or spills.
• Inspect the Power Cord: Check the power cord periodically for any wear and tear. If it appears damaged, replace it immediately.

Comparing the Krups BeerTender B90 to Similar Products

While the Krups BeerTender B90 offers an excellent balance of features, it’s essential to compare it to other beer dispensers to ensure you’re choosing the right one for your needs. When comparing, consider factors like compatibility with keg types, ease of use, customization options, and cooling performance.

• Krups BeerTender B90 vs. Heineken Draught Keg System: Both systems offer easy dispensing and cooling. However, the BeerTender B90 has a more versatile temperature adjustment range, allowing for better customization of beer styles.
• Krups BeerTender B90 vs. NutriChef PKBEVD40 Draft Beer Dispenser: The NutriChef offers a more compact design, but it lacks the temperature control feature that the BeerTender B90 provides, making it less customizable for various beer types.

Compatibility with Other Beer Products

The Krups BeerTender B90 is designed to be compatible with certain kegs, primarily Heineken and other similar 5-liter kegs. It’s crucial to ensure that any keg you use is compatible with the BeerTender B90 system. The BeerTender B90 will not work with standard homebrew kegs or larger keg sizes without an adapter or modification.