Beer Tap Towers: How to Choose and Install

Key Takeaways

• Beer tap towers are essential for delivering quality draft beer and enhancing bar aesthetics.
• Choose between single, double, or multi-tap towers based on your volume and space.
• Materials like stainless steel, brass, and chrome offer different durability and visual benefits.
• Cooling method matters—air-cooled for short runs, glycol-cooled for long distances.
• Generic towers are cost-effective; custom towers elevate branding and customer experience.
• Accessories like drip trays, faucets, and tap handles improve performance and style.
• Routine maintenance—including cleaning with professional solutions like Anchor—keeps your beer fresh and your system running smoothly.
• Proper installation and occasional expert servicing ensure long-term reliability.

A beer tap tower is far more than just a conduit for beer—it's a central feature of your bar that enhances service, brand perception, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re setting up a home bar, pub, or commercial venue, choosing the right draft beer tower is essential for achieving smooth, flavorful pours and an impressive visual experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about kegerator tap towers: styles, materials, cooling systems, installation, and maintenance—plus the accessories that take your setup to the next level.

What Is a Beer Tap Tower?

A beer tap tower is the visible component of a draft beer dispensing system that houses the faucets and connects to the keg through a beer line. It is mounted on the bar or countertop and allows bartenders or self-serve patrons to pour beer with ease. Not only does it play a crucial functional role, but it also serves as a showpiece in any bar setup.



Types and Styles of Tap Towers

When selecting a tap tower, style and function go hand-in-hand. Here are the most common types:

Single Tap Towers

Perfect for compact spaces or home bars, single tap towers are cost-effective and simple to install.

Double Tap Towers (2 Tap)

Ideal for offering two different beers from one central location, a 2 tap beer tower is common in restaurants and mid-sized venues.

Triple and Multi-Tap Towers

Designed for high-traffic bars, these towers let you serve multiple beers at once, from 3 up to any number of taps. Larger towers maximize variety and efficiency.

Common Styles

• T-Style

Traditional and widely used; supports 1 to 8 taps.

• Column/Standard Style

Slim, vertical column often used on kegerators.

• Double Pedestal

Wide base, supports high-volume pouring.

• Wall-Mounted and Under-Bar

Great for saving space and creating a sleek aesthetic.

• Vintage or Ceramic Towers

Designed for thematic bars or those wanting an old-world pub feel.

Choosing the right style depends on the volume of beer you plan to serve and your bar's layout and design.

Material and Finish Options

Tap towers come in a range of materials and finishes, allowing you to match your bar's aesthetics while maintaining durability.

Most Common Materials:

Stainless Steel: Durable, rust-resistant, and easy to clean—great for both commercial and home use.

• Polished Brass: Offers a warm, vintage look. Needs regular polishing to maintain its appearance.
• Chrome-Plated Brass: Shiny, modern finish with solid construction.
• Ceramic: A statement piece often found in European-style pubs.

Finish Types:

• Polished stainless steel
• Brushed stainless steel
• Chrome
• PVD coatings (for custom colors or extra durability)

Selecting a finish isn't just about looks—it also affects ease of maintenance and resistance to wear and tear.

Air-Cooled vs. Glycol-Cooled Systems

Your cooling system directly affects beer quality. Here's a breakdown:

Air-Cooled Towers

• Use ambient air or refrigeration to keep lines cool.
• Best for short runs—typically up to 5–6 feet between keg and faucet.
• Common in small bars and home setups.

Glycol-Cooled Towers

• Use a glycol chiller to keep beer at a consistent temperature.
• Ideal for long-draw systems (more than 25 feet).
• Great for large venues, multi-level bars, or outdoor installations.
• More expensive, but ensures consistent beer quality.

If you’re unsure, always consult a technician to evaluate the best fit for your space and beer dispensing needs.

The key difference lies in their cooling mechanisms and intended applications. Please read our blog Types of Draft Beer System: Complete Guide for more detailed information.

Generic vs. Custom Tap Towers

Generic Tap Towers

• Cost-effective and widely available.
• Quick installation.
• Perfect for venues that need functionality over style.

Custom Tap Towers

• Personalized designs, branded finishes, and logos.
• Ideal for craft breweries, upscale venues, or businesses that prioritize branding.
• Often more expensive, but delivers high ROI in ambiance and guest perception.

If branding and aesthetics matter to your venue, a custom tap tower can be a game-changer.



Essential Tap Tower Accessories

To make the most of your draft setup, consider these must-have accessories:

• Drip Trays: Keep your bar clean and prevent spills. Choose from wall-mounted, platform, or cut-out styles.
• Tap Handles: Custom or branded tap handles help identify beer types and add personality to your bar.
• Faucet Parts: Plastic knobs, flow regulators, and cleaning plugs enhance performance and maintenance.
• Tower Converters: Useful when adapting towers to different keg types or beer styles.


Installing a Beer Tap Tower: Step-by-Step

• Choose Your Location: Ensure the tower is mounted on a stable surface with easy access underneath.
• Drill the Hole: If necessary, drill a hole through the bar top for the beer leg(s).
• Secure the Tower: Use the included bolts or screws to attach the tower to the surface.
• Connect the Beer Line: Attach the vinyl beer line to the tower shank and secure it with clamps.
• Attach Tap Handles: Screw tap handles onto the faucets, ensuring a tight fit.
• Pressure Test: Before pouring, turn on the CO₂ and check for leaks or weak pressure.
• Test Pour: Pull a few test pints to ensure smooth, foam-free beer delivery.
• Pro Tip: Use a keg insulator jacket and line insulation for better temperature stability, especially in air-cooled setups.


Beer Tap Tower Maintenance Tip

• To keep your beer tasting fresh and your system running efficiently, regular maintenance is essential:
• Clean Weekly: Use a beer line cleaning solution like the Anchor beer line cleaning solution to remove residue and kill bacteria.
• Inspect for Leaks: Check connectors, clamps, and CO₂ lines monthly.
• Replace Vinyl Tubing: Every 12–18 months, or sooner if cracks or discoloration appear.
• Maintain Glycol Systems: Refill glycol levels annually and replace every 2–3 years.
• Polish Brass Towers: If you have brass or chrome finishes, polish periodically to keep them looking sharp.
• Keep Tap Handles Clean: Wipe them daily and deep clean weekly.

When to Call a Professional

Some issues—like poor beer flow, excessive foam, or inconsistent temperatures—might require expert attention. Don’t hesitate to call in a draft beer technician to inspect and fine-tune your system, especially if you notice persistent problems.



Final Thoughts

A beer tap tower is more than a delivery device—it's a symbol of quality, efficiency, and hospitality. Choosing the right one involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and cooling method to suit your needs.

Whether you go for a classic stainless steel column or a custom-branded 10-tap showpiece, make sure you maintain it well and accessorize it smartly. That way, every pour is a perfect one—and your guests will keep coming back for more.

If you have any questions about choosing the right tap tower for your needs feel free to contact UBC Group USA specialists via live chat, phone or form on the Contact Us page.