What Keg Coupler Do I Need?
Identify which coupler fits your beer brand and learn how to connect it. Different kegs use different valve types — use the wrong coupler and the beer will not pour. Our keg hire includes the correct coupler for every keg.
What Is a Keg Coupler?
A keg coupler is the connector that links your gas line and beer line to the keg. It fits onto the valve on top of the keg. Each coupler type has a different internal layout — pins, probe length, and valve shape — so a G-Type coupler will not fit an S-Type keg. Using the wrong coupler means the beer will not pour, or you may damage the valve.
Main Coupler Types in the UK
| Type | Also known as | Common brands |
|---|---|---|
| S-Type | European Sankey (UK standard) | Stella Artois, Amstel, Heineken, Carlsberg, Kronenbourg 1664, Peroni, Estrella Damm, Birra Moretti, San Miguel, Aspall Draught Cyder |
| G-Type | Grundy | Carling, Guinness Draught, Tennent's, Old Speckled Hen, Coors Light, Budweiser, Strongbow (some) |
| A-Type | German / Euro | Guinness (some variants), Hoegaarden, Pimm's, Bitburger and Erdinger (usually A-Type; some UK fills differ), some other German beers |
| D-Type | US Sankey | Corona, some American craft beers |
| U-Type | — | Some craft kegs, KeyKeg-style containers |
S-Type and G-Type are the most common for UK events. When you hire kegs from us, we supply the correct coupler. If you are hiring dry (keg only) and using your own dispense system, check your bar has the right coupler type for the beer you have ordered.
How to Connect a Keg Coupler
- Position the keg. Place the keg upright. Ensure the valve on top is clean and free of debris. If the keg has a rubber cap, remove it.
- Align the coupler. Hold the coupler so the probes (the parts that enter the keg) line up with the valve. The coupler should sit flat on top of the keg valve.
- Press down and turn. Press the coupler down firmly onto the valve, then turn it clockwise (usually a quarter turn, about 90°) until it locks. You should feel or hear it click into place. Do not force it — if it will not turn, the coupler type may be wrong.
- Connect gas and beer lines. Attach your gas line to the gas-in port (often on the side or front of the coupler) and your beer line to the dispense port. Ensure the connections are secure.
- Open the gas. Turn on the gas at the regulator. Set the pressure according to your beer type — see our gas and pressure guide.
- Pour. Pull the tap handle to dispense. The first pour may be foamy as air in the line clears. See our how to use a beer tap guide for pouring tips.
How to Disconnect a Keg Coupler
Turn off the gas. Turn the coupler anticlockwise until it releases, then lift it off. Some beer may escape when you disconnect — this is normal. Replace any cap on the empty keg if you are returning it.
Common Problems
Beer will not pour: Check the coupler is fully engaged (turned until it locks). Confirm the gas is on and the regulator is set correctly. If you have multiple keg types, ensure you have the right coupler on the right keg.
Coupler will not lock on: Wrong coupler type for the keg. Do not force it. Check the keg brand against the table above and swap to the correct coupler.
Excessive foam or flat beer: Usually a gas pressure issue rather than a coupler problem. See our pressure guide.
Need kegs with the right couplers for your event? Our keg hire includes couplers, gas, and setup. We can also supply full mobile bar hire with staff. Contact us for a quote.
Related Guides
How to Use a Beer Tap
Step-by-step guide to pouring draught beer.
Gas & Pressure Guide
Calculate the correct beer pressure for your keg.
Keg Size Guide
Learn about different keg types and volumes.
Keg Cooling
Flash coolers, python lines and outdoor jackets.
Keg Hire
Kegs with correct couplers included
Draught System Hire
Beer taps and dispense equipment
How to Use a Beer Tap
Pouring draught beer correctly
All Guides
More guides for bar setup
Need kegs with the right couplers?
Our keg hire includes the correct coupler for every beer. Get a quote or call 0800 861 1471.
Areas We Cover
Midlands-based. We cover most of England and Wales. Confirm the venue postcode before you book:
Wales & NI
We are Midlands-based and cover most of England and Wales. We do not claim nationwide coverage.