First, narrow it down
Are several soda or draft stations having trouble at once? Check whether the site uses a small replaceable CO₂ cylinder, a bulk tank with gauges, or a larger liquid cylinder.
What you're seeing
| Symptom | Possible cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Exchange cylinder seems empty | May have low product despite stable pressure | Use the supplier’s level/weight method. |
| Bulk internal gauge low | Tank may be depleted or unable to build pressure | Contact bulk gas supplier. |
| Bulk internal okay; outlet low | Delivery/regulator path issue | Record both gauges; call service. |
What to check
Start with the symptoms across stations
Flat soda, several weak BIB pumps, and no gas at multiple draft faucets can share a CO₂ problem. A single flavor out is less likely to be the main CO₂ supply.
For exchange cylinders, use the provided level or weight method
A high-pressure gauge on a cylinder containing liquid CO₂ can stay relatively steady until much of the product is gone. Do not use its pressure alone as a precise fuel gauge. Have trained personnel check the normal tank-monitoring method.
For bulk tanks, find the two different gauges
Carbonator’s bulk CO₂ sheet describes a 0–400 psi gauge for internal tank pressure and a 0–200 psi gauge for outgoing gas. These are measuring different things. Do not assume either number is a tank percentage.
Read the setup-specific limits without changing them
The supplied bulk flowchart uses over 70 psi on the internal-pressure gauge as one screening check and around 90–120 psi on the outgoing gauge for its listed system. Those numbers are not universal: compare to the range recorded for your tank and equipment.
Consider unexpected gas consumption
A BIB pump that runs constantly, an open unused beer-gas line, or a fitting leak can consume gas. Only inspect accessible areas that are adequately ventilated; do not search for leaks in a confined room.
Arrange delivery or service based on the pattern
If the tank indicates low supply, contact the supplier. If the tank appears supplied but the outgoing pressure is low, the regulator, valve, or vaporization equipment may need service.
Why it happens
Tank inventory, internal pressure, and delivery pressure are three different measurements. The troubleshooting flowchart provided by Carbonator is designed around a particular bulk system; always compare with your installed equipment.
Need service?
Request a delivery if product is low. Request service if readings are inconsistent, gas use is unexpectedly high, or equipment stops despite available product.
Contact us (215) 726-8000