Best Practices
Keep your carbonated water system running smoothly with these maintenance tips and best practices.
Regular Maintenance
Section titled “Regular Maintenance”Cleaning Schedule
Section titled “Cleaning Schedule”- Monthly: Rinse the faucet/tap with clean water
- Periodically: Clean the keg, tubing, and faucet with a cleaning solution
- Every 6-12 months: Replace the water filter (or as recommended by the manufacturer)
Cleaning Process
Section titled “Cleaning Process”- Disconnect the CO₂ and water lines
- Use a cleaning solution like PBW (Powdered Brewery Wash) or a food-safe sanitizer
- Clean the keg interior thoroughly
- Flush all tubing with cleaning solution, then rinse with clean water
- Clean the faucet/tap components
- Reassemble and reconnect all lines
Inspection Checklist
Section titled “Inspection Checklist”Regularly inspect:
- Fittings and seals: Check for leaks or wear
- Tubing: Look for kinks, cracks, or discoloration
- CO₂ levels: Monitor your CO₂ tank gauge
- Water filter: Check filter condition and replace as needed
- Pressure: Verify CO₂ regulator is maintaining correct pressure (~40 PSI)
Preventing Issues
Section titled “Preventing Issues”- Leaks: Tighten all fittings regularly, but don’t over-tighten
- Contamination: Always use food-grade components
- Clogs: Replace water filter on schedule
- Low Carbonation: Check CO₂ pressure and ensure water is cold
- Taste Issues: Regular cleaning prevents off-flavors
CO₂ Management
Section titled “CO₂ Management”- Keep a backup CO₂ tank on hand
- Exchange tanks before they’re completely empty
- Check for leaks around CO₂ connections
- Store CO₂ tanks upright and secure
- Signs of low/empty CO₂ tank: The regulator pressure gauge shows below your set value (e.g., below 40 PSI), the CO₂ tank feels light when lifted, or the water is not very carbonated. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to exchange or refill your CO₂ tank.
Water Quality
Section titled “Water Quality”- Use the inline filter to ensure clean water
- Replace filters according to manufacturer recommendations
- If you notice taste issues, check filter condition first
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Section titled “Troubleshooting Common Issues”Water Not Carbonating or Slow Carbonation
Section titled “Water Not Carbonating or Slow Carbonation”- Check Pressure: Ensure CO₂ pressure is set correctly (around 40 PSI).
- Check Temperature: Ensure water is cold (35-40°F). Colder water absorbs CO₂ more readily.
- Check Gas: Verify CO₂ tank isn’t empty.
- Check Leaks: Inspect for leaks in the CO₂ system.
Water Not Filling Keg
Section titled “Water Not Filling Keg”- Pressure Balance: If water isn’t filling the keg, the CO₂ pressure inside the keg may be higher than your water line pressure.
- Fix: Temporarily reduce the CO₂ pressure (vent the keg) to allow water to fill, then increase it back to your desired level (40 PSI) once filled.
Low Water Pressure at Tap
Section titled “Low Water Pressure at Tap”- Filter: Check water filter - may need replacement.
- Kinks: Inspect tubing for kinks.
- Supply: Verify water supply is turned on.
- Clogs: Check for clogs in the system.
Off Tastes
Section titled “Off Tastes”- Clean: Clean the entire system.
- Filter: Replace water filter.
- Tubing: Check for contamination in tubing.
- Materials: Ensure all components are food-grade.
- Fittings: Check all fittings and tighten as needed (do not over-tighten).
- Tubing: Inspect tubing for cracks or damage.
- Seals: Verify seals are in good condition.
Long-Term Care
Section titled “Long-Term Care”With proper maintenance, your system should provide years of reliable service. The key is regular cleaning and inspection to catch issues early.