Jockey Box Coils & Conversion Kits: A Guide for Beer Enthusiasts

Jockey Box Coils & Conversion Kits: A Guide for Beer Enthusiasts

If you’ve ever attended a beer festival or large outdoor event, chances are you’ve seen a jockey box in action. These portable draft beer dispensers are essential for serving ice-cold beer on the go, making them a favorite among breweries, event organizers, and homebrewers alike. Central to their operation are jockey box coils and conversion kits, the unsung heroes that ensure every pour is as refreshing as the first. In this blog, we’ll explore what jockey box coils are, how they work, and how conversion kits can help you create the perfect portable draft beer system.

What is a Jockey Box Coil?

A jockey box coil is a key component in a jockey box system, designed to cool beer as it’s being dispensed. Unlike traditional draft systems where beer is stored and cooled in kegs or refrigerators, a jockey box uses a coil submerged in ice water to chill the beer just before it reaches the tap.

Here’s how it works:

• Coil Construction: Jockey box coils are typically made of stainless steel, which is durable, corrosion-resistant, and excellent at conducting heat (or, in this case, cold). The coil can vary in length, with longer coils providing more surface area for the beer to chill as it passes through.

• Beer Cooling Process: As beer flows from the keg through the coil, it rapidly cools down as it passes through the ice-cold water surrounding the coil. By the time it reaches the tap, the beer is perfectly chilled and ready to be served.

• Efficiency: The coil system is incredibly efficient, capable of cooling warm beer to near-freezing temperatures in just a few seconds. This makes jockey boxes ideal for serving beer at outdoor events, where keeping kegs cold can be challenging.

Why Use a Jockey Box Coil?

Jockey box coils are essential for several reasons:

• Portable Cooling: Jockey boxes allow you to serve cold beer anywhere, without the need for a power source to keep the kegs refrigerated. This portability makes them ideal for festivals, tailgating, beach parties, and other outdoor events.

• Instant Chilling: Because the beer is chilled as it flows through the coil, there’s no need to pre-chill the kegs. This is especially useful when transporting beer to events, as it can be stored at a warmer temperature until it’s time to serve.

• Consistent Temperature: Jockey box coils ensure that every pour is at the perfect serving temperature, regardless of how hot it is outside. This consistency is crucial for maintaining the quality and taste of the beer.

What are Jockey Box Conversion Kits?

A jockey box conversion kit is a convenient package that allows you to convert a regular cooler into a fully functioning jockey box. These kits typically include all the components you need to set up a jockey box, including the coil, shank, faucet, and other necessary fittings.

Here’s what you can expect from a typical conversion kit:

• Stainless Steel Coil: The centerpiece of the kit, the coil is what cools the beer as it flows through the jockey box. Kits may include one or more coils, depending on how many taps you want to install.

• Shank & Faucet: The shank connects the coil to the faucet, allowing beer to flow from the coil to the tap. The faucet is where the beer is dispensed, and most kits include a high-quality faucet designed for smooth pouring.

• Thermoplastic Vinyl Tubing: This tubing is used to connect the keg to the coil, ensuring a secure and leak-free connection.

• Couplers: These are used to connect the tubing to the kegs. Conversion kits typically include standard couplers, but you can choose specialized couplers if you’re serving beer from different types of kegs.

• Other Accessories: Depending on the kit, you may also receive washers, clamps, and instructions to help you assemble your jockey box.

Setting Up Your Jockey Box

Setting up a jockey box using a conversion kit is a straightforward process, even for beginners. Here’s a basic guide:

1. Choose Your Cooler: Start with a high-quality cooler that can hold ice for extended periods. The cooler will house the coil and ice, so it should be large enough to accommodate both.

2. Install the Coil: Drill holes in the cooler to mount the coil and shank. Follow the kit instructions to ensure everything is securely attached.

3. Connect the Tubing: Attach the tubing from the coil to the keg coupler on one end and to the shank on the other. Use clamps to secure the connections.

4. Fill with Ice: Fill the cooler with ice, making sure the coil is completely submerged. This will chill the beer as it flows through the coil.

5. Tap the Keg: Attach the coupler to the keg and open the valve to start the flow of beer.

6. Pour & Enjoy: With everything in place, you’re ready to start pouring cold, refreshing beer straight from your jockey box!

Conclusion

Jockey box coils and conversion kits are game-changers for anyone looking to serve cold beer at events or gatherings. Whether you’re a homebrewer, a craft beer enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys a well-poured pint, understanding and utilizing these tools can take your beer-serving experience to the next level.

By using a jockey box, you ensure that every beer you pour is at the optimal temperature, no matter where you are. So, the next time you’re planning an event, consider the power of a jockey box with a high-quality coil and conversion kit—you’ll be the hero of the party, serving up ice-cold brews that everyone will appreciate. Cheers!