7 Essential Tips for Choosing the Best Beer Tap Handles

When it comes to serving beer, the right tap handle makes a big difference. Not only does it enhance the look of your bar or home brewing setup, but it also serves as an important branding tool. Whether you’re a bar owner, a home brewer, or a beer enthusiast, knowing how to choose the best beer tap handles can elevate your beer-serving experience. Here are 7 essential tips for choosing the best beer tap handles that will help you make an informed decision.

1. Consider the Material

One of the first factors to think about when choosing beer tap handles is the material. Beer tap handles can be made from various materials such as wood, metal, acrylic, or plastic:

• Wood: Offers a classic feel and can be customized easily.
• Metal: Durable and often comes in stylish designs; great for modern bars.
• Acrylic: Lightweight and can come in colorful designs; great for showcasing branding.
• Plastic: Economical and available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Choose a material that fits your style and the overall theme of your bar.

2. Think About Design and Shape

The design and shape of the tap handle can grab attention and create an inviting vibe:

• Unique Shapes: Eye-catching designs (like a pint glass, bottle, or even theme-related shapes) can attract customers.
• Logos and Branding: Be sure the tap handle has space for your brewery’s logo, name, or beer type, enhancing brand recognition.
• Colors: Bright colors can stand out, while more muted tones may suit a vintage bar.

When considering design, think about your target audience and what might appeal to them.

3. Height Matters

The height of your beer tap handle plays a crucial role in functionality and style. Taller handles can draw attention but may not fit well underneath low shelves or draft beer systems:

• Standard Height: Generally, tap handles range from 8 to 14 inches. Make sure they are high enough to be noticed but low enough to be practical.
• Visibility: A handle that’s easy to reach will enhance customer interaction and satisfaction.

Take measurements before purchasing to ensure your new handles will work well with your existing setup.

4. Durability is Key

Beer tap handles need to withstand constant use. Look for materials and designs that can handle the wear and tear over time:

• Weather Resistance: If located outdoors, tap handles should be able to withstand various weather conditions.
• Ease of Cleaning: Choose materials that are easy to clean, as spills will happen.

Investing in durable beer tap handles saves money in the long run, as you’ll avoid frequent replacements.

5. Customization Options

Many breweries take advantage of customization for their beer tap handles. This creates a unique touch that enhances your brand:

• Personalized Designs: Look for suppliers that offer custom designs, whether it’s your logo, special colors, or unique shapes.
• Seasonal Variations: Think about rotating your tap handles during holiday seasons or special promotions to keep things fresh.

Customization can set you apart from the competition and keep your brand in customers’ minds.

6. Ease of Use

Choosing beer tap handles that are easy to operate is essential for both bartenders and customers:

• Comfortable Grip: Make sure the handles are comfortable and easy to hold, allowing for smooth pouring.
• Mechanism Quality: Bet on handles that have a reliable mechanism to ensure they won’t get stuck or malfunction.

A user-friendly tap handle will improve the pouring experience and keep customers happy.

7. Pricing and Value

When shopping for beer tap handles, consider both your budget and the overall value you’re getting:

• Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Tap handles can range from affordable to high-end collector items.
• Evaluate Quality vs. Cost: Cheaper shouldn’t always equate to lower quality. Invest in good-quality handles for longevity.

Balancing price with quality will ensure you get the best value for your money while choosing the best beer tap handles.

Conclusion

Choosing the best beer tap handles involves a blend of style, functionality, and durability. The 7 essential tips for choosing the best beer tap handles highlighted in this post will guide you to make a decision that aligns with your needs and brand identity. Take the time to evaluate materials, design, height, durability, customization options, ease of use, and pricing to find tap handles that not only look great but also provide an exceptional customer experience. Invest wisely, and your beer tap handles will enhance the enjoyment of every pour!