This document describes the Krups BeerTender VB31/VB32, a home beer dispensing system designed for optimal draft beer enjoyment.

Function Description:

The BeerTender is an appliance exclusively designed for dispensing cool draft beer from a special container called a BeerTender® Keg. It is intended for domestic use within households and at altitudes below 2000m. The system ensures high-quality, long-lasting draft beer and is designed for ease of use. It features a cooling system that regulates the BeerTender® Keg's temperature, offering two modes: "stand-by" cooling for normal operation with minimal fan noise, and "active" cooling when the internal temperature is too high. Once the target beer temperature is reached, the system reverts to stand-by cooling. The appliance includes an LED control panel to indicate operation status and ideal beer temperature.

Important Technical Specifications:

Model: VB31/VB32
Dimensions (w x h x d): 273 x 453 x 505 mm
Weight: 5.5 kg (5.3 kg without drip tray)
Cord length: 1.1 m
Beer container: BeerTender® Keg
Control panel: Top
Operating conditions: With 80% R.H. min 12°C max 30°C
Rated voltage, power, and supply: See plate on bottom of appliance
Insulation class: II
Cooling class: SN
Casing material: Thermoplastic

The manufacturer reserves the right to make constructive and engineering changes due to technological advances. The appliance complies with European Directive 89/336/EEC (Legislative Decree 476 of 04/12/92) concerning electromagnetic compatibility.

Usage Features:

Keg Compatibility: Only original BeerTender® Kegs marked "Compatible BeerTender®" (from the Heineken group) can be used. Using other beer containers or inserting any other materials is prohibited.
Pre-chilling: BeerTender® Kegs must be chilled before use to prevent excessive foam. This can be done inside the BeerTender® appliance (approx. 15 hours to reach 4°C from 20°C ambient temperature) or in a refrigerator (approx. 12 hours). Freezing kegs is strictly prohibited as it can cause them to explode and diminishes beer quality.
Installation: The appliance should be placed on a flat, stable, heat-resistant surface, away from heat sources or direct sunlight, in a room with an ambient temperature between 12°C and 30°C. The drip tray and grill must be properly fitted. The dispensing spout (the only part in direct contact with beer) must be cleaned before first use and with every new keg.
Power Connection: Ensure the main switch is set to "0" before plugging the appliance into a suitable, properly installed electric socket. The appliance will start cooling immediately once the main switch is set to "I".
Keg Insertion: Open the lid by pressing the handle. Insert the BeerTender® Keg, then remove the upper part of the dispensing head (6) by lifting it upwards. Install the BeerTender® keg tap and position the beer tube (fig. 15). Return the upper part of the dispensing head to its initial position, ensuring it is correctly seated in the beer pump mechanism to avoid damaging the beer pipe. Gently close the lid until it locks.
Dispensing Beer:
- Always check the "best before end" date on the keg.
- Use a clean, cold glass, rinsed with cold water (fig. 20).
- Position the glass at a 45-degree angle under the tap (fig. 21).
- Pull the serving handle down firmly and quickly as far as it will go.
- Avoid contact between the dispensing spout, the glass, and the beer to prevent excessive foaming.
- The first glass from a new keg may contain mostly foam; let it settle on the drip tray before continuing to fill.
- Dispensing too slowly or opening the tap only slightly will also generate more foam.
- For optimal quality, beer should have a head of about 3 cm, evenly distributed and adhering to the glass, be clear with bubbles, and be served at 4-6°C.
Children's Safety: The tap's handle can be removed to prevent children from using the appliance. Ensure the handle is in an upright position before pulling it upwards (fig. 28).

Maintenance Features:

Daily Cleaning: The drip tray and grill should be emptied and cleaned after every use (fig. 23). They can be washed with warm water and a mild detergent.
Cleaning After New Keg Installation: The dispensing spout must be cleaned with hot water (dishwasher-safe) before installing a new keg (fig. 24, fig. 9). The beer dispensing mechanism should be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent (fig. 25). The upper part of the dispensing head can be washed with water and thoroughly dried (fig. 26).
Routine Cleaning: The cooling chamber should be regularly cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent (fig. 27). Do not fill the cooling chamber with water. The ventilator grill at the back of the machine should be kept clean and regularly dusted with a vacuum cleaner. The upper part of the cooling head can be removed and washed with hot water and a gentle detergent, but not in a dishwasher.
General Cleaning Precautions: Never use aggressive cleaning agents such as vinegar, acids, solvents, or petrol. Do not immerse the appliance, power cord, or plug in water or other liquids. Unplug the machine before cleaning and if not in use for a prolonged period.
Disposal: The appliance contains recyclable materials. When no longer in use, it should be rendered unusable (unplugged, power cable cut) and taken to a suitable waste collection facility for proper disposal of special components, including the TEM – Module (Peltier’s cell), in accordance with local regulations.

Krups Beertender VB32 - Page 118

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