Beer Jockey Boxes: The Secret Weapon for Throwing a Killer Party
If you’re planning a party and want to serve beer on tap, a beer jockey box should be at the top of your must-have list. A jockey box is a portable draft system that allows you to serve cold, fresh, and carbonated beer wherever you like – be it your backyard, a beach, or a remote camping site. In this article, we will take a closer look at what a beer jockey box is, how it works, and why it’s a game-changer for any beer-loving party host.
What is a Jockey Box?
A beer jockey box is a portable dispensing system that uses ice water and CO2 to cool and dispense beer. It typically consists of a cooler with a spout and a tap handle, a stainless steel coil, a shank, and a faucet. The beer is pumped from a keg into the stainless steel coil, which is submerged in ice water. As the beer passes through the coil, it gets chilled and carbonated, and then it’s dispensed through the faucet.
How Does a Jockey Box Work?
A beer jockey box is easy to set up and use. Here’s how it works:
1. Fill the cooler with ice water – you’ll need about 15 to 20 pounds of ice (depending on the size of the cooler) to keep the beer cold for several hours.
2. Place the stainless steel coil inside the cooler, making sure it’s submerged in the ice water.
3. Connect the CO2 tank to the regulator and the regulator to the keg coupler.
4. Connect the keg coupler to the stainless steel coil using a shank and a beer line.
5. Open the valve on the CO2 tank to start carbonating the beer.
6. Adjust the pressure on the regulator until the beer flows smoothly through the faucet – this usually takes a bit of trial and error.
7. Pull the tap handle to pour a cold, frothy glass of beer.
Why Use a Jockey Box?
There are several advantages to using a beer jockey box instead of traditional keg dispensing systems:
1. Portability – a jockey box is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport to any location. You don’t need a power source, and you don’t have to worry about keeping the keg cool.
2. Freshness – a jockey box keeps the beer cold and carbonated, ensuring that every pour is fresh and perfect. You won’t have to deal with flat or warm beer, which can ruin a party.
3. Variety – a jockey box allows you to serve multiple beers at the same time, as long as you have the kegs and the couplers. You can let your guests choose from a wide selection of craft beers, IPAs, lagers, and more.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about beer and want to impress your guests with a killer party, a beer jockey box is the way to go. It’s easy to use, portable, and versatile, and it ensures that your beer stays cold and carbonated. Plus, it’s a fun and interactive way to serve beer, and it adds a touch of professionalism to your party. So break out the cooler, the ice, and the kegs, and get ready to pour the perfect pint!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the beer stay cold in a jockey box?
A: The beer can stay cold for several hours, depending on the amount of ice you use, the outside temperature, and the size of the cooler.
Q: Can I use a jockey box for other beverages besides beer?
A: Yes, you can use a jockey box for any beverage that requires carbonation, such as cider, mead, or sparkling wine.
Q: How many kegs can I serve with a jockey box?
A: You can serve as many kegs as you like, as long as you have the couplers and the space to fit them inside the cooler.
Q: Do I need any special skills or tools to set up a jockey box?
A: No, you don’t need any special skills or tools. A jockey box is easy to assemble and use, and it comes with all the necessary components. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll be pouring beer like a pro in no time!