Jockey Boxes - Beer Cooling Systems

Jockey Boxes - portable beer dispensing system

A jockey box is a type of portable beer dispensing system that is perfect for outdoor events and parties. It allows you to serve cold beer without the need for a large refrigeration unit or electricity. With the right parts list and cooling system, anyone can enjoy a cold, refreshing beer wherever they go.

Jockey Box - The Portable Kegerator

If you're a fan of cold, refreshing draft beer, then you're probably familiar with kegerators, which allow you to enjoy your favorite brews on tap at home. But what if you could take that experience on the road? Enter the jockey box, a portable kegerator that brings the joy of draft beer to any outdoor gathering or event.

What Is A Beer Jockey Box Cooling System?

A beer jockey box is a kit that contains all the necessary components to dispense beer from kegs without the need for a large refrigeration unit or electricity. The kit typically includes a cooler, a dispensing tap, a cooling system, and a drip tray. Some kits may also come with a cover to protect the system from the sun or other elements.

How The Jockey Box Works

A jockey box is essentially a compact and self-contained beer dispensing system. It typically consists of a cooler or container filled with ice, a beer line that runs through the ice, and a dispensing faucet. The ice acts as a cooling mechanism, chilling the beer as it flows through the line, ensuring a cold and refreshing pour every time.

One of the main advantages of a jockey box is its portability. Unlike traditional kegerators, which are large and often stationary, a jockey box is designed to be easily transported. Whether you're tailgating, hosting a backyard barbecue, or attending a picnic, you can bring your jockey box along and serve cold draft beer wherever you go.

The jockey box works by passing beer through a cooling system before it is dispensed. There are two main types of cooling systems used in jockey boxes: cold plates and coils.

• Cold plates: Cold plates are flat metal plates with channels that circulate a coolant. The beer flows through the cooling channels, where it is cooled by the surrounding ice or coolant. Cold plates are generally more expensive but offer better cooling performance and are more efficient for non-carbonated beverages.

• Coils: Coils are long metal tubes that are wrapped around the outside of the beer keg or container. As the beer flows through the tube, it is cooled by the surrounding ice or coolant. Coils are less expensive and easier to install and clean, but may not provide as consistent cooling performance as cold plates.

The Jockey Box cooler is the container that holds the beer kegs and the cooling system. It is usually an insulated container, such as a plastic cooler or a metal chest. The dispensing tap is attached to the cooler and allows the beer to be served. It typically has a lever or handle that opens a valve to release the beer. The drip tray is located below the dispensing tap and catches any drips or spills to keep the area clean and prevent contamination.

The Jockey Box Cold Plate Vs. Coil

Choosing between a cold plate and a coil depends on your specific needs. Consider the following:

• Cost: Coils are less expensive than cold plates.
• Ease of installation: Coils are easier to install and clean than cold plates.
• Cooling performance: Cold plates offer better cooling performance and are more efficient for non-carbonated beverages than coils.
• Consistency: Cold plates provide a more consistent cooling performance than coils.

It's important to note that both cold plates and coils require ice or a coolant to operate. The recommended pressure for dispensing beer from a jockey box is between 5-15 PSI.

In conclusion, a beer jockey box is a great solution for serving cold beer at outdoor events or parties. With the right parts list and cooling system, anyone can enjoy a cold, refreshing beer wherever they go. Consider your specific needs when choosing between a cold plate and a coil, and always follow recommended pressure guidelines for optimal performance.

Setting up a jockey box is relatively simple. First, you'll need to connect the keg to the jockey box using a CO2 tank or a hand pump to provide the necessary pressure for dispensing the beer. Then, fill the cooler or container with ice, ensuring that the beer lines are submerged in the ice. As the beer flows through the lines, it chills down, providing a crisp and enjoyable drinking experience.

Jockey boxes are available in various sizes, accommodating different numbers of beer lines and kegs. Some models even come with additional features like built-in taps, drip trays, and regulators to control carbonation levels. This versatility allows you to cater to the needs of small gatherings or larger events.

In addition to their portability, jockey boxes offer a practical advantage for events where a traditional draft system might not be feasible. For instance, outdoor festivals, camping trips, or beach parties often lack access to electricity or the space required for a full-size kegerator setup. A jockey box offers a convenient solution, allowing beer enthusiasts to enjoy draft beer without compromising on taste or temperature.

Whether you're a homebrewer looking to showcase your creations or simply a beer lover who enjoys the freshness and flavor of draft beer, a jockey box can elevate your drinking experience. Its portability, ease of use, and ability to keep the beer cold make it a great investment for anyone who wants to bring the joy of draft beer to any location.

So, the next time you're planning an outdoor gathering or hitting the road for an adventure, consider bringing a jockey box along. With its ability to turn any place into a mobile taproom, it's sure to be a hit among beer enthusiasts and partygoers alike. Cheers!