Nothing will damage the outcome of a party like the inability to tap a keg due to an incorrect keg tap. Following this guide can provide valuable insight for correct tap choosing as well as a little help for the actual tapping of the keg. Keg taps are available online or can be rented from the sight in which the keg was purchased. However, for people who regularly use kegs, it may be better to purchase a keg taps. Taps are affordable and durable and as long as they are properly maintained, they will last for a very long time.

There are several different types of keg taps on the market today. Each keg tap is designed to open a specific brand of beer. Domestic taps will not open an imported beer keg, while not all imported keg taps can be used for every imported beer. Here are several types and what style of beers they can help open.

Type D, known as the American Sankey is useful for beers such as Budweiser, Coors, and Miller. Type D is the most common type of tap sold and is often the easiest to use. Type S, sometimes called the European Sankey will tap kegs of Heineken, Beck's and Amstel. For lovers of Guinness and Harp, keg taps will require the U-type of coupler. The U-type received its name from the English manufacturing company UEC. The A-type, often called the German Slider is useful for fans of Spaten, Warsteiner, and Paulaner. The G-type coupler named from its developer Grundy fits beers such as Bass, Boddingtons's, Caffrey's and Anchor Steam. There are also M-System couplers, similar to the German Slider and is useful for Aventinus and Einbecker beers. Home breweries also have special couplers and twin probe taps are used sparingly by microbreweries.

While there seems to be an impressive amount of taps to choose from and one could find lost selecting the right keg handles for the keg, it is always the best option to consult the keg vendor or manufacturer for which tap to purchase and use. Talking to a trained and knowledgeable person can eliminate the waste of time and money spent on wrong couplers and even prevent the damage of the keg, ensuring a quick and easy return with no hassles. Keg taps are available through many online vendors or local state stores. Keg taps are affordable and durable and as long as they are properly maintained, will last for a very long time.

Once the appropriate keg tap handles are selected, the tapping process of the keg can begin. To do this simply align the coupler with the pump and steel pipe attached above the lug housing. Pushing down firmly, force the coupler through the housing unit and begin twisting clockwise to securely lock the coupler into place. Be sure to run off a few cups to release the built up foam and then sit back and enjoy what is sure to be a joyous night of friendship and gathering.