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Homebrewing Equipment

How can I force carbonate my brew using a mini keg

By:Gareth Davies
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MASHED ISSUE 9

Don’t overfill your mini keg

When filling your keg, leave plenty of room for the gas – so don’t fill all the way to the lid. In fact, don’t fill past the upright walls, leave the conical space at the top empty. More space allows more surface area which helps with faster carbonating.

Chill your brew before carbonating

Make sure your brew is chilled before force carbonating.

3 ways to force carbonate

Method 1: Set the pressure to 12-15psi for 48 hours+. This will not over carbonate your brew.

Method 2: Set the pressure to 20-25psi for 12-24 hours. Quicker than method #1 but you can run the risk of over carbonating your beer.

Method 3: This is the quickest method. Set the pressure to 20-25psi. Swirl and shake the keg and contents for a couple of minutes allow to rest. Repeat if necessary.  

What to do if your brew is under carbonated

If your brew is still under carbonated then leave it a bit longer, or swirl the keg whilst adding 25psi of CO2.

What to do if your brew is over carbonated

If your brew is over carbonated, close the CO2 valve and release some gas using the gas release valve. Simply pull the ring on the valve to release pressure. Don’t over do it in one go – keep testing by releasing a bit at a time.

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