Planning Your Draft Line Installation Placement
Planning your draft installation starts with assessing your space to determine optimal system placement. Start by mapping the direct route between the cooler and the taps, and assess walls, beams, utilities, and ceiling cavities to avoid heat sources. Observing peak-hour service helps you decide tap placement, counter height, and equipment access, and confirming utilities keeps servicing accessible and easy.
Different types of systems serve specific purposes, and their ideal placement changes based on the setup. You can choose from:
Direct Draw Systems
Direct draw systems are designed to efficiently deliver beer to the tap. This setup preserves beer temperature and quality, making it ideal for small to mid-size bars, cafes, and restaurants where space is limited, and the bar and cooler are close together.
The best placement for this type of system is directly below or immediately behind the service bar in a temperature-controlled environment, such as a dedicated kegerator or a walk-in cooler. You will want to keep the placement easy for staff to change kegs without interrupting service.
Forced Air Systems
Forced air uses an air duct to move cold air from the cooler to the tower when they are located close by. Forced air keeps the beer cold as it travels a short distance, making it best for bars and restaurants with a cooler near the serving area but not directly connected to it.
For placement of forced air systems, components are best located for maximum efficiency in a central, conditioned, and accessible location. Supply vents should be placed high on walls or in the ceiling for optimal cooling, while return vents should be located low on walls to pull in cool air, ensuring even circulation.
Glycol Systems
Long-draw glycol systems pump beer through a protected trunk line, often routed through ceilings or walls. Chilled glycol maintains beer temperature over longer distances, making this system perfect for busy restaurants, stadiums, and event spaces where the cooler and taps are farther apart.
Position the glycol chiller as close to the walk-in cooler/kegs as possible to reduce the distance for the glycol coolant loop, which improves efficiency. When planning placement, consider that a well-ventilated area helps remove heat, and avoid hot, confined spaces, as high heat can damage the compressor.
Self-Service Beer Walls
Installed on an interior wall, self-service beer walls allow patrons to pour their own drinks, reducing the need for additional wait staff. These systems are best suited for food halls, breweries, and entertainment venues that prioritize speed and customer autonomy.
Placement for this system focuses on visibility and flow. You will want to position self-service areas so that they are immediately visible to customers upon entering your establishment. Ensure the placement allows ample room around the taps for customers to queue and move freely. Also, they shouldn’t be installed right next to a main bar, as this will cause congestion.
