Perlick Beer Dispenser Cleaning
Perlick’s beer dispensing systems provide a convenient way to serve thirsty customers cold, refreshing brews. To make sure that your beer stays tasty and safe to consume, regular beer dispenser cleanings are a must. Follow the instructions below to learn how to clean your Perlick beer dispensing system properly so you can help keep your unit running efficiently throughout each shift.
Supplies
- Beer Line Cleaning Kit
- Buckets
- Water
Cleaning the Beer Lines
It’s recommended that you clean your beer lines at least every two weeks or more as needed. Be sure to check your state’s required cleaning frequency first to ensure you’re in legal compliance.
- Step 1—Turn off the CO2 at the cylinder or at the air distributor.
- Step 2—Remove the keg coupler tapping device from the barrel.
- Step 3—If your tapping device contains a check ball, use the check ball lifter from the cleaning kit by inserting it into the bottom of the coupler.
- Step 4—Place the tapping device into a small bucket.
- Step 5—Using the spanner wrench from the cleaning kit, remove the beer faucet from the dispensing head.
- Step 6—Fill the cleaning pump jar from the cleaning kit with warm water.
- Step 7—Attach the cleaning pump jar connector along with the washer to the faucet connection on the dispensing head.
- Step 8—Pump warm water from the cleaning pump jar through the system to remove any remaining beer. Then, empty the tapping device bucket and rinse it out. Place the tapping device back into the bucket.
- Step 9—Fill the cleaning pump jar with water and the cleaning chemical from the cleaning kit, making sure to follow all provided directions.
- Step 10—Pump the cleaning solution into the system, making sure to leave about ½ of the solution in the cleaning pump jar.
- Step 11—Let the solution stand for 15 minutes, then pump the remaining solution through the system.
- Step 12—Clean the exterior of the tapping device with the brush from the cleaning kit, then rinse with clean water.
- Step 13—Rinse out the cleaning pump jar thoroughly with water.
- Step 14—Fill the cleaning pump jar with water, then pump the entire jar through the system.
- Step 15—Repeat Step 13. You can now move to the Cleaning Beer Dispenser steps while the solution is sitting in the system during the 15-minute duration.
- Step 16—Remove the cleaning pump jar from the dispensing head and reinstall the faucet.
- Step 17—Turn the CO2 back on and tap a new keg.
Cleaning the Beer Dispenser Faucets
Cleaning the faucet for your Perlick beer dispenser can be done while the cleaning solution is sitting within the dispensing system of your unit.
- Step 1—While the solution is soaking in the system, mix water and the cleaning chemical in a small container or bucket. Disassemble the faucet and let the components soak in the solution.
- Step 2—Clean the faucet components with the cleaning brush.
- Step 3—Thoroughly rinse all components of the faucet in clean water. Inspect all components for any signs of wear or damage. Replace as needed.
- Step 4—Reassemble the faucet.
- Step 5—Reinstall the faucet onto the dispensing head.
Cleaning the Cabinet
Perlick keg cooler cleaning instructions involve using a mild detergent and warm water to wash the interior and non-metallic exterior surfaces of the cabinet. You may also add a little baking soda as necessary. Be careful not to get water on electrical components, like the lights, controllers and fan motors or the unfinished wood wine rack faces. Make sure you rinse and dry the treated areas thoroughly with a fresh towel once finished.
Note: Never use abrasive cleaners or tools on the cabinet, as this can scratch and damage the equipment.
Cleaning the Stainless Steel
To maintain the stainless steel’s shine and prevent corrosion and rust, you’ll need to properly care for the metal. Water, chlorides and physical damage from wire brushes, scrapers or other abrasive cleaning tools should be avoided. Instead, use an alkaline, alkaline chlorinated or non-chloride cleaner without quaternary salt.
Immediately wipe away water droplets if they come in contact with the stainless steel, as naturally occurring chlorides in water can break down the metal’s protective layer and lead to pitting. If you accidentally use a chlorinated cleaner, immediately rinse and dry the area.
Spray the approved stainless steel cleaner directly onto a soft cloth and wipe in the direction of the grain. If you can’t discern a grain, polish in a straight back-and-forth motion, avoiding circular movements.
Cleaning the Glass
You can clean the glass panels using any reputable glass cleaner. Spray the solution directly onto a clean cloth to wipe down the glass.
Cleaning the Condenser
You can access the condenser behind the front grille cover. Vacuum any dust and lint buildup using a soft bristle brush to aid in debris removal. This should be done once every three months.
Note: Be careful not to bend or otherwise damage the condenser fins or tubing while cleaning.
How Often Should You Clean a Perlick Beer Dispenser?
Perlick recommends flushing the beer lines with water after emptying a keg. From there, it’s best to chemically clean the beer lines at least every two weeks or more often if necessary. The condenser should also be vacuumed at least once every three months.
Additional Resources
For more information, how-to guides and preventative maintenance tips, check out our extensive library of Perlick manuals and diagrams.
