Setting up a jockey box can be a daunting task for those who are unfamiliar with the process. However, with the right equipment and a little bit of knowledge, anyone can set up a jockey box to serve cold, refreshing draft beer on the go. A jockey box is a portable draft beer dispensing system that uses a cooler, dispensing coils, and ice to chill beer as it is poured. In this post, you will discover the right jockey box setup and how to pour great beer at your next event.
Understanding Jockey Box
A jockey box, also known as a coil cooler or cold plate cooler, is a portable dispensing system used to serve chilled beverages, typically beer, at outdoor events, parties, and festivals. It consists of a cooler filled with ice, a stainless steel coil or cold plate, and a beer faucet. The beer is run through the coil or cold plate, which is submerged in the cooler completely with ice, to chill it before it is dispensed through the faucet.
Jockey boxes come in different sizes, shapes, and configurations depending on the number of taps and the type of cooling system used. They can have anywhere from one or multiple taps and can be powered by CO2.
One of the advantages of using a jockey box is that it allows for the dispensing of beer without the need for electricity or a bulky refrigeration unit. This makes it ideal for outdoor events and parties where access to electricity is limited or non-existent. Additionally, jockey boxes are highly portable and can be easily transported from one location to another.
Another advantage of using a jockey box is that it is refrigerated storage can help preserve the quality and flavor of the beer being served. Since the beer is chilled as it is dispensed, there is no need to keep the kegs or bottles cold, which can lead to temperature fluctuations and spoilage. This ensures that the beer being served is always fresh.
Overall, jockey boxes are a convenient and efficient way to serve chilled beer at outdoor events and parties. With their portability, ease of use, and ability to preserve the quality of the beer being served, they are a popular choice among beer enthusiasts and event organizers alike.
Essential Parts of a Jockey Box
A jockey box consists of several essential parts that work together to provide the perfect pour. In this section, we will discuss the main components of a jockey box.
Coils
The coils are the heart of the jockey box. They are responsible for cooling the beer as it flows through the system. The coils are usually made of stainless steel or copper and are designed to be submerged in ice water. The length and diameter of the coils will determine the cooling capacity of the jockey box. Longer coils will provide more cooling power, but they will also increase the resistance to flow, which can affect the pour.
Shanks
The shanks are used to connect the coils to the faucets. They are usually made of stainless steel and are threaded so that beer hex nut, nipple and gasket seals the connection. Shanks are designed to be easy to clean and sanitize. They come in different sizes and configurations to accommodate different coil lengths and faucet types.
Faucets
The beer faucets are the final component of the jockey box. They are responsible for dispensing the beer. The faucets are usually made of stainless steel and have a lever that controls the flow of beer. They come in different styles and sizes to accommodate different types of beer and pour rates. Some faucets have a flow control feature that allows the user to adjust the pour rate.
Cooler Box
The cooler box is the container that holds the ice water. It is usually made of plastic or stainless steel and is designed to be easy to clean and sanitize. The entire cooler box should be large enough to accommodate the coils and ice water. It should also have a drain plug to allow for easy draining and cleaning.
Regulator
The regulator is an optional component of the jockey box. It is used to control the pressure of the CO2 gas that is used to push the beer through the system. The regulator is usually mounted on the outside of the cooler jockey box model and is connected to the CO2 tank and the jockey box. It should be easy to read and adjust.
In summary, a jockey box consists of stainless steel parts: coils, plates, faucets, a cooler, coil jockey box itself, and a regulator. Each component plays an important role in providing a perfect pour. It is essential to choose high-quality components that are easy to clean and sanitize.
Setting Up Your Jockey Box
When setting up a jockey box, there are three main components to consider: coil installation, faucet assembly, and regulator connection.
Setting Up a Cold Plate Jockey Box
1. Tap the keg and run beer through the faucet before adding more ice back to the keg jackets the jockey box. This removes water left behind during the cleaning process before temperatures in the plate get cold enough to freeze it, causing turbulence or blockage of the beer flow.
2. Place ice both underneath and on top of the cold plate in the same temperature as the ice chest. As time passes, the ice will “bridge” and should be removed to allow the air line into better contact with the cold plate and remaining ice. Ice should be added periodically and water drained from the ice chest.
3. Set CO2 pressure at 25 to 35 psi. This is regulator pressure will vary depending on how much tubing is contained in the plate and thus how much resistance to flow is built into each line. Pressure can be adjusted to attain the desired flow rate.
Setting Up a Coil-Style Jockey Box
1. Tap the keg and run the remaining beer down through the coil and out the faucet.
2. Add some crushed ice to the ice chest and add ice to completely cover the coil.
3. Add cold water to the top of the coil. This creates an ice bath, giving excellent surface contact. Ice water is also a better heat conductor than straight ice.
4. Set CO2 pressure at 35 to 40 psi on 120 ft. coils. Shorter coils are not recommended but, if used, should dispense beer at an excess pressure of 30 to 35 psi. Since coil length varies, so too will psi. This is usually a trial-and-error process as opposed to an actual calculation.
Coil Installation
The first step in setting up a jockey box is installing the coils. Stainless steel jockey box coils come in different sizes and shapes, so choose the one that fits your needs. Once you have the stainless steel coils out, follow these steps to install them:
- Submerge the coils in an ice bath to chill them.
- Attach the hex nuts to the coils.
- Insert the coils into the cooler, ensuring that they are positioned correctly.
- Tighten the hex nuts to secure the coils in place.
Faucet Assembly
After installing the coils, the next step is to assemble the faucets. Follow these steps to assemble the faucets:
- Attach the shank to the faucet.
- Insert the shank through the hole in the cooler.
- Tighten the nut on the inside of the cooler to secure the shank in place.
- Attach the beer line to the nipple on the shank.
- Attach the faucet handle to the faucet.
Regulator Connection
The final step in setting up a jockey box is connecting the regulator. Follow these steps to connect the regulator:
- Attach the regulator to the CO2 tank.
- Connect the CO2 line to the regulator.
- Connect the other end of the CO2 line to the coupler or couplers.
- Adjust the regulator to the desired pressure.
With these three components installed and connected, your jockey box is ready to dispense cold beer.
Maintaining Your Jockey Boxes
Cleaning and Maintenance
Temporary dispensing beer equipment must be cleaned immediately after use. It is nearly impossible to remove the mold and biofilms that can result from storing cold plates, coils, or a jockey box that has had old beer left in the lines. For cleaning jockey boxes, refer to the detailed electric cleaning pump procedures outlined in the manual. After cleaning, the water in the lines must be blown out to prevent mold growth and preferably hung up vertically to remain dry.
Please note that the exact steps may vary depending on the specific model of your jockey box. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions when setting up and using the jockey boxes fitted your equipment.
Storage
Proper storage is essential to prevent damage to your jockey box. After each use, make sure to remove any leftover beer and thoroughly clean and dry all components. Store your jockey box in a cool, dry place, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
Regular Inspection
Regular inspection can help you identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems. Check your jockey box's coils regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as leaks, dents, or cracks in the coils or other components. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your jockey box running smoothly and enjoy fresh, delicious beer every time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Jockey boxes are a great way to serve cold beer at events, but sometimes issues can arise. Troubleshooting common issues can help ensure your jockey box is working properly and your beer is served at the right temperature.
Foamy Beer
One of the most common issues with jockey boxes is foamy beer. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Temperature
- Dirty lines
- Incorrect CO2 pressure
- Over-carbonated beer
To troubleshoot foamy beer, start by checking the temperature of the beer and the jockey box. Make sure the beer is chilled to the proper temperature and the jockey box is not in direct sunlight or a warm area. If the beer and jockey box are at the correct temperature, check the lines for any dirt or debris that may be causing the foam. If the beer lines are dirty, clean them with a pressurized cleaning kit.
If the beer is still foamy, check the CO2 pressure and adjust it as necessary. Over-carbonated beer can also cause foaming, so make sure the carbonation level is appropriate for the style of beer being served.
Leakage Issues
Leakage issues can also occur with jockey boxes. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Loose connections
- Damaged or worn-out seals
- Cracks in the jockey box or lines
To troubleshoot leakage issues, start by checking all connections to make sure they are tight. If the connections are tight and there is still a leak, check the seals for any damage or wear. If the seals are damaged or worn, replace them. These would be the gaskets for the faucets and couplers.
If the seals are in good condition and there is still a leak, check the jockey box and lines for any cracks or damage. If there is damage, replace the affected part.
By troubleshooting common issues with jockey boxes, you can ensure your beer is served at the right temperature and with minimal foaming or leakage.
Conclusion
Setting up a jockey box can seem daunting at first, but with the right equipment and a little bit of know-how, anyone can do it. By the proper setup, following the steps outlined in this guide, and using the resources available online, you can have a fully functional jockey box up and running in no time.
Once you have your jockey box set up and running, it's essential to make sure that the beer is being poured at the correct temperature. This can be achieved by adjusting the CO2 pressure and flow rate. It's also important to make sure that the lines are properly cleaned and maintained to prevent contamination and ensure a clean, crisp pour every time.
In summary, setting up a jockey box requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to learn. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the resources available online, anyone can set up a jockey box and enjoy a cold, refreshing beer on the go. For more information about draft dispensing check out the rest of my blog, and for questions reach out here.