How to Choose the Right Draft Beer System for Your Bar

Draft beer is a popular choice for bars and restaurants because it offers a fresh, consistent taste and can be served quickly and easily. However, choosing the right draft beer equipment can be a daunting task, as there are many different systems and components to consider.

In this post, we will compare various draft beer systems and explain what factors to consider when making a purchase.

Topics

Types of Draft Beer Systems


There are two main types of draft beer systems: direct draw and long draw.
Direct draw systems are the simplest and most common type of draft beer system. In a direct draw system, the beer is cooled in a keg and then dispensed directly to the tap.
Image
Long draw systems are more complex than direct draw systems but offer several advantages. The beer is cooled in a central cooler in a long draw system and then dispensed to the taps through a network of lines.
Image

Consult your draft service technician for a professional opinion on what is best for your bar.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Draft Beer Equipment


When choosing draft beer equipment, there are several factors to consider, including:

  • The size of your bar
  • The number of taps you need
  • The type of beer you will be serving
  • Your budget
What is Tap Trackers?

Comparing Draft Beer Systems

Here is a comparison of the two main types of draft beer systems:

Feature

Direct Draw System

Long Draw System

Complexity

Simple

Complex

Cost

Less expensive

More expensive

Maintenance

Less maintenance

More maintenance

Flexibility

Less flexible

More flexible

Which Draft Beer System is Right for You?


The best draft beer system for your bar will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you have a small bar with a limited number of taps, a direct draw system may be the best option for you. If you have a larger bar with a wide variety of beers, a long draw system may be a better choice.