Well, let me tell you about my experience with purchasing and setting up a cold brew tap. I’ve always been a fan of cold brew coffee, and I decided it was time to have my own tap at home. So, I did some research and found that a nitro tap would be the best option for me.
First off, I had to purchase a kegerator, which is essentially a refrigerator specifically designed to hold kegs. I found one that was the perfect size for my kitchen and cost me around $500. This kegerator came with all the necessary components like a temperature control system and taps.
Next, I needed to get the gas tanks for the nitro tap. I opted for a dual-gauge CO2 regulator, which cost me around $100. The gas tanks themselves were an additional expense, and I paid about $150 for two tanks. This would ensure that I always had a backup tank ready to go when one ran out.
Of course, I couldn’t forget about the kegs. I decided to start with two kegs, each holding around 5 gallons of cold brew coffee. These cost me about $150 each, so a total of $300 for both kegs. The kegs came with the necessary gas lines and connections.
In terms of brew equipment, I already had most of what I needed since I had been brewing my own cold brew coffee for a while. However, I did invest in a stainless steel mesh filter specifically designed for kegs, which set me back about $50. This filter would help ensure a smooth and clean pour every time.
Lastly, I needed cleaning equipment to keep everything in top shape. I purchased a keg cleaning kit for about $50, which included a cleaning solution and brushes to clean both the kegs and the tap lines.
So, in total, I estimate that I spent around $1,150 on the kegerator, gas tanks, kegs, gas lines, brew equipment, and cleaning equipment. But, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate based on my own experience and the prices I paid. The actual cost may vary depending on where you purchase the equipment and any additional accessories you might want.
Additionally, I should mention that there was a bit of a learning curve when it came to setting up and using the nitro tap. It took some trial and error to get the perfect pour and dial in the right amount of nitrogen for that creamy, smooth texture. But once I got the hang of it, I was able to enjoy a refreshing cold brew coffee on tap whenever I wanted.
Having a cold brew tap at home can be a bit of an investment, but if you’re a true cold brew enthusiast like me, it’s definitely worth it. The convenience and quality of having fresh cold brew on tap is unmatched, and it’s a great way to impress your friends and family too. So, if you’re considering getting a cold brew tap, I would highly recommend it. Just be prepared for the upfront cost and the learning curve that comes along with it.