Air-Cooled Remote Draft Systems for Short-Run Installations
Air-cooled draft systems use a blower to push cold air from the walk-in cooler through an insulated duct alongside the beer lines, keeping the beer cold from the cooler to the tower. They're simpler and less expensive to install than glycol systems — and the right choice for the right application.
When Air-Cooling Works
- Run length under 25 feet — the Brewers Association recommends glycol for any run exceeding 25 ft; air-cooling is reliable within that range
- Cooler-adjacent towers — ideal when the draft tower is directly above or very close to the walk-in
- Lower tap counts — fewer lines means less heat load; air-cooling handles it well
- Budget-conscious builds — no glycol power pack, no refrigerant, simpler maintenance
When to Choose Glycol Instead
If your run exceeds 25 feet, passes through a warm space (kitchen, outdoor area), or serves a high-volume bar, a glycol system is required. Air-cooling loses effectiveness quickly over distance and in warm ambient conditions.
What We Carry
- Draft tower blowers & fans — sized for single and multi-line applications
- Air shafts & cooling ducts — insulated conduit connecting the blower to the tower
- Mounting hardware & accessories — everything needed for a clean installation
Air-Cooled System FAQ
Can I convert an air-cooled tower to glycol later if I move to a longer run?
Yes, in most cases — the tower itself is typically compatible with either cooling method. You'd add a glycol chiller and run glycol lines alongside the beer lines, then remove or disconnect the blower and air shaft.
How loud is a draft tower blower?
Most commercial blowers run quietly enough to be unnoticeable in a normal bar environment, especially once mounted inside a cooler or cabinet. Noise is rarely a practical concern compared to the cooling performance tradeoff versus glycol.
