Can You Return a Keg With Beer in It?
Few experiences compare to the joy of tapping a freshly filled keg. The hiss of gas, the slosh of golden nectar, that first foamy pour – pure bliss. But what if tragedy strikes? What if, halfway through the party, the keg starts kicking weak foam? Can you return a half-empty keg to get your deposit back? Should you try to pawn off flat swill on innocent partygoers? Let’s explore the etiquette, logistics, and legalities around refunding draught gone bad. From retail policies to moral quandaries, we’ll fizz up some insights on whether it’s kosher to take back a keg with beer still in it. One thing’s for sure – don’t let a taproom taboo leave you paying for pisswater!
Snapshot Summary
Whether you can return a keg with beer still in it depends on the retailer’s return policy. Most will only allow returns on empty barrels to get your deposit back. Once tapped, sales are final. However, if the beer tastes terrible – sour, skunky, weak foam – the store may make an exception and swap it for a fresh keg. Be ready to provide a receipt and explain the issue. Don’t try to sneak it by; they can tell if beer’s missing! Your best bet is to communicate with the staff to find a fair resolution. Returning half-empty kegs is unlikely with high keg deposits, but it always helps to ask kindly.
Ownership of the keg
Who Owns the Keg?
Renting a keg can be a great way to provide beer for a party, event, or other social gathering. With a keg, you get volume and the ability to serve draft beer fresh on tap. However, while you possess the barrel, it is essential to remember who the owner is. There are good reasons why you need to return the keg when you are finished with it.
The keg rental company or liquor store owns the actual keg container. They have purchased the stainless steel or aluminum kegs and rented them out to customers like yourself when you want to buy beer. So, while you paid a deposit to take possession of the barrel to use it, it is still legally owned by the company, not you. This means:
- You cannot sell, scrap, or keep the keg – it must be returned. The keg is a costly asset, often $100-200 each for a full-size 1⁄2 barrel keg.
- You are responsible for any damage or abuse of the property while in your custody. Just like with a rental car, you assume liability for taking care of it properly while using it temporarily.
- There are usually mandatory return dates, often 1-4 days after renting the keg. Please complete the return date to avoid additional charges.
Returning the keg promptly is crucial for several reasons:
Freshness of the Beer
- Once a keg is tapped, oxygen and light start degrading the quality of the beer. The flavor and carbonation suffer over time after serving.
- The keg owner wants to be able to recover any unused beer in sellable condition. But beer deteriorates rapidly after exposure to air.
- Returned kegs need to be cleaned and sanitized for reuse. Delayed returns slow down their operations.
Getting Your Deposit Back
- Most keg deposits are $30-$75 or more. You want to get this sizable cash deposit back when returning the keg.
- Any delays or issues means you get your money back later than you’d like.
- Unreturned kegs often forfeit the deposit funds entirely.
Avoiding Extra Fees
- Most keg rental agreements charge late return fees if you don’t return the keg on time. These are often $10-$20 per day late.
- Unreturned kegs can also face an unreturned equipment fee while losing your deposit. This extra penalty can be $200 or higher.
Reduce Waste
- Unreturned kegs cause the vendor to save time, effort, and money dealing with the lost equipment and untapped beer that goes bad. This unnecessary waste and cost gets passed on to customers.
- By promptly returning your keg, you ensure the vendor can reuse all the resources efficiently. This helps minimize their costs and keep your beer prices affordable.
So, while you enjoy draft beer from the keg for your special event, party, or other occasion, remember that the physical keg container itself is the property of the brewery or vendor you rented it from. Be sure to return the keg within the agreed-upon time frame and in reasonable condition to avoid unnecessary costs and headaches for you and the vendor. This ensures the process can work smoothly for everyone.
Etiquette for returning kegs
Proper Etiquette for Returning Your Keg
Renting a kegerator and a keg is a great way to provide draft beer for a party, event, or gathering. However, there is some etiquette you should follow when it comes time to return the keg to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are some tips on how to politely and adequately return your barrel when you are finished with it.
Understand the Rental Agreement and Your Deposit
When you rent a keg, you likely pay a $30 to $150 deposit. This deposit is held as security in case the barrel is damaged or not returned. Be sure you get a receipt with the date to return the keg to get your deposit back in full. Most keg deposits are refunded when you promptly return the undamaged barrel. But you must adhere to the rental agreement to avoid losing some or all of your deposit amount.
Returning the Keg on Time
- Be sure to note the exact return date and time you are expected to return the keg. Mark it on your calendar. Returning it late can result in fees.
- If you need the keg longer, call the vendor ASAP to make arrangements. Please don’t assume it’s okay without their approval. Extra rental fees often apply.
- When finished with the keg, start cooling it immediately to keep the beer fresh as best as possible. Store it cold until returning.
- Return the keg as early as possible on or before the return date. This gives the vendor time to tap it, assess how much beer is remaining, and clean & refill it again.
- If you can’t make it before closing time, ask if you can return the keg to an after-hours drop-off. Some locations have this option available.
Carefully Transport the Keg
- Protect the keg during transport so it doesn’t get damaged. Keep it upright and prevent unnecessary jostling.
- Bring any rental accessories you were loaned, like taps, tubing, and fittings. Don’t discard or lose these parts.
- If you no longer have the tapper, cap the keg so it is sealed for transit. This keeps the beer fresher.
- Handle the heavy barrel safely and get help lifting it if needed. Don’t injure yourself or drop it.
Be Polite and Appreciative When Returning the Keg
- Thank the vendor for their service when you return the keg. A friendly attitude goes a long way.
- Apologize politely if the barrel is a bit dirty and needs cleaning before they can refill it. Don’t seem entitled or rude.
- Refrain from arguing if they assess reasonable restocking fees for unused beer. Accept it as part of the rental.
- Ask when your deposit will be refunded. It is often credited back to your card within a few days.
- Tip: Bringing a six-pack or making a small purchase when you return the keg is a nice gesture.
Following this proper etiquette shows you respect the vendor’s policies and appreciate their keg rental service. Adhering to the rental terms, returning the keg promptly, and being polite increases the chances you’ll get your full deposit back and be able to rent from them again in the future.
Legal considerations
Be Aware of Laws and Penalties Regarding Keg Returns
When renting a keg, it is essential to understand there are certain legal considerations, regulations, and potential penalties surrounding the proper return of the keg container. Here is an overview of fundamental laws to keep in mind.
Laws Related to Beer Keg Containers
- In the United States, kegs and beer containers are highly regulated under both federal and state laws. There are legal requirements for labeling, tracking, and recycling programs.
- Most states have keg registration laws requiring the renter’s information to be recorded when purchasing a beer keg. This is to hold the renter accountable for proper return and legal use.
- It is illegal in all states to tamper with, remove, or deface the officially tagged keg registration numbers. Doing so can lead to fines.
- Specific regulations vary by state, but kegs are intended for personal use by those of legal drinking age, not for unauthorized or underage drinking parties.
Penalties for Unreturned Kegs
Failing to return a rented keg on time or at all can lead to various legal and financial penalties:
- The renter will be charged the total retail cost to replace the unreturned keg, often $100-$300.
- The keg deposit paid upfront, often $30-$150, will be forfeited and not refunded.
- Late fees typically apply if the keg is returned after the agreed rental period, usually $20-$50 per day late.
- Legal action may be taken for theft of property or breaking rental contracts. This can include being taken to civil or criminal court.
- For repeat violations, renters may be banned from renting kegs in the future.
- In states with keg registration, violating those laws can lead to additional fines imposed.
The potential penalties make it imperative to properly return your keg on time or risk severe financial and legal consequences. Always adhere to all laws and rental agreements.
Best practices for keg management
Proper Keg Handling and Management Tips
Renting kegs for your special event comes with specific best practices you should follow. Here are some tips for properly managing kegs in your possession.
Keeping Track of Your Kegs
- Create a keg log to record details on the kegs you rent, like vendor, deposit, beer type, dates, rental conditions, etc.
- Take photos of each keg’s serial numbers and your keg log for documentation.
- Designate keg managers at your event who are responsible for monitoring and handling the kegs.
- Mark your kegs with removable Tags or stickers to identify which are yours. Do not deface or remove official tags.
Proper Keg Storage and Transport
- Keep kegs cold at 38°F or below when storing for any length of time. Use a refrigerator, cooler, or chilling tub.
- Handle barrels gently and avoid bumps or drops, which can cause foaming or leaks. Do not stack barrels.
- Transport kegs carefully by vehicle. Secure them upright and prevent movement.
- Cap open keg valves during storage and transport after tapping. CO2 purge if possible.
- Use keg lifts, hand trucks, or another safe method for moving heavy kegs. Get assistance.
Following best practices ensures you keep close track of rental kegs and handle them properly during use and return transport.
FAQ
Can I return a damaged or faulty keg?
If your keg starts leaking beer or isn’t working correctly, you should be able to return it for a replacement. Just be prepared to show proof that the keg is defective. Please take note of any issues immediately and document them before pouring any beer. Video or pictures of the problem can help with your claim.
Most vendors will exchange a clearly damaged keg if no beer has been dispensed. But it becomes trickier once you’ve started serving from it. You may only get partial credit if you used some of the kegs before identifying issues with the container.
Always inspect kegs carefully for dents, cracks, or leaks before accepting and using them. And let the vendor know right away if anything seems off to get the best outcome. Damaged kegs are a health hazard and shouldn’t be tolerated.
Related Video: This One Simple Change Transformed My Kegerator [Upgrading Beer Lines]
Conclusion
The answer comes down to the retailer’s discretion. While most won’t allow returns on tapped kegs, if you’re polite and explain the issue, the staff may work with you – especially if the beer tastes off. Don’t try to pull a fast one; they’ll know if it’s partially consumed. Your best bet is to be upfront about the situation and ask if they can check the batch or swap for a fresh keg. With the high deposits on kegs, returning half-empty ones is uncommon. But if you encounter bad beer, communicate with the retailer rather than pawn off subpar brew. With mutual understanding, you can recoup your costs on a defective draught. Ultimately, a spirit of reasonableness and honesty will gain you the most goodwill.