Frequently Asked Questions

Technical

1. How can it clean so quickly?

The combination of high pressure water which produces a 'scrubbing' action in the beer line during the rinse and a higher concentration of top quality cleaning fluid during the soak period.

2. Is there disruption to my trade when it is installed?

There's no disruption provided early access to the site is allowed. All bar work should be done prior to lunchtime trade, cellar work is done whilst trading and bar work and training is finished late afternoon prior to the next trading session.

3. Does it clean cask as well as keg?

Yes, it is recommended for supporting the licensee in delivering a quality product.  Some of our customers have gone on to achieve industry awards for their real ale.

Commercial

1. Is maintenance and training included in the price?

All maintenance and additional training is included in the standard rental package.  Please ensure that you take maximum advantage of this inclusive benefit.

2. How quickly do you respond to service calls?

Within 24 - 72 hours dependent on the nature of the call.

3. I am not a high turnover pub. Is it right for me?

Whether you are a high turnover establishment or not, beer lines still have be cleaned.  The quality of the beer served is of paramount importance to any business - please arrange to discuss the viability with one of our Sales Consultants.

4. If it is so good, why don't the breweries provide them?

Breweries are primarily concerned with selling the licensee as much beer as possible, ie. they do not mind if you waste beer whilst cleaning as the licensee has to buy it from the brewery.  The Beer Piper is so good - see the testimonials.  "It does what it says on the tin."

5. How can you afford a free trial without obligation?

Providing that your site meets the qualification criteria, The Beer Piper Company believes that the 'Beer Piper concept' will benefit your business.  As such, we are prepared to make that investment in your business to demonstrate the full benefits.  Remember it is free and there is no obligation.

However there are two points.

• We do respectfully request that you do actually use the Beer Piper during the trial and wholeheartedly try the Beer Piper concept.
  
• That the Sales Consultant completes a weekly trial progress report with the customer.
  

6. How does it pay for itself?

Primarily by being able to sell the beer that you currently pour down the drain during line cleans. Additionally, there is the additional saving of your and your staff's time as beer line cleaning is now going to be done whilst trading as opposed to out of hours.

7. How and when, realistically, can I actually achieve these financial benefits?

This is the primary purpose of the free, no obligation trial.  Does it do for your business what our sales team believe it can achieve?  The 21 day trial should give the operator an insight into what, realistically, can be achieved.

General

1. Why do beer lines get dirty?

The nature of the product means that yeast and other micro-organisms can build up in the lines over time.

2. Why does it matter if beer lines are dirty?

Good hygiene is essential to prevent a food safety hazard.  Contaminated lines can lead to hazy beers with a poor palate that can cause sickness.

3. How often should beer lines be cleaned?

Beer is classified as a food under The Food Safety Regulations (1995) and the same standards of hygiene should therefore be applied to cellars as to kitchens.  Cleanliness of dispense equipment is essential to maintain high standards of quality, and The Beer Quality and Safety Panel stress that the objective of line cleaning is to maintain a constant state of hygiene and not to wait for yeast to accumulate.  The guidance therefore recommends the cleaning of beer and cider dispense systems at least every seven days.

4. Are beer lines normally cleaned according to the guidelines?

The most quality-conscious landlords ensure that their lines are contamination free.  However, due to the nature of line cleaning and the related time and expense, these recommendations are often not adhered to.

5. Is the cleaning solution hazardous?

Yes - if you do not follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding dilution and handling.  Whilst manually cleaning lines you should always use protective clothing, goggles and gloves.  Also, make sure that you add the detergent to the water - doing the reverse can result in severe burns.