When setting up a draft beer system, understanding how much beer you can dispense with a single CO₂ tank is key to planning and efficiency. A common size for home or small commercial draft systems is a 5-pound CO₂ tank. This size tank is compact, relatively affordable, and capable of dispensing a surprising amount of beer.

The number of kegs a 5lb CO₂ tank can dispense depends on the size of the keg and the pressure used, but here’s a general breakdown:

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Sixth Barrel Kegs (1/6 Barrel)
• Dispensable Kegs: 13 to 16
• Volume per Keg: 5.16 gallons
• Why So Many? These smaller kegs require less CO₂ per keg to push the beer out. Perfect for variety and smaller servings, sixth barrels allow the CO₂ tank to go further.

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Quarter Barrel Kegs (1/4 Barrel)
• Dispensable Kegs: 9 to 11
• Volume per Keg: 7.75 gallons
• Use Case: Often used in smaller parties or for home setups, quarter barrels are a good middle-ground, and a 5lb tank can handle nearly a dozen of them before needing a refill.

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Half Barrel Kegs (Full Size Kegs)
• Dispensable Kegs: 5 to 6
• Volume per Keg: 15.5 gallons
• Why Fewer? These full-sized kegs are standard in bars and larger events, and they naturally require more CO₂ to dispense due to their larger volume.

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Other Considerations
• Pressure Settings: Most draft systems run at 10–12 PSI. Higher pressure or excessive foaming can increase CO₂ use.
• Temperature: Warmer temperatures cause more CO₂ usage due to expansion and increased absorption in beer.
• System Design: Long beer lines or poorly maintained connections may cause leaks and lead to faster depletion of CO₂.

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Conclusion

A 5lb CO₂ tank offers efficient dispensing across a range of keg sizes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or running a small bar, knowing your system’s capability helps with inventory planning and ensures you never run out mid-pour.

Quick Reference:
• Sixth Barrel: 13–16 kegs
• Quarter Barrel: 9–11 kegs
• Half Barrel: 5–6 kegs

Always keep a backup tank if you’re pouring for an important event—just in case!