Beer Forum

I exchanged my co2 tank last night for a new one, and slapped on a new Micro-Matic regulator that shows the
pressure in the actual C02 Tank as well as the pressure sent to the kegs. I noticed that the regulator says pressure in the keg is 700psi. The gauge goes up to 3000psi. Is 700psi enough, or am I getting ripped off?

How much does a tank hold?

The tank has 5# of liquid CO2 in there. The pressure that shows on the high side regulator is a function of temperature, at least until the tank is almost empty. If the tank is stored at the same temp, it will show the same PSI until empty.

In my Florida garage, the high side reads 1000# I think. In the fridge it might read 600#.

You're not getting ripped off; measure the tank by weight. They make hanging fisher's scales for propane tanks, not sure if they do the same for CO2.

My gas supplier places all the tanks on a scale as they fill them - your full tank should weigh 5lbs plus the tare weight of the empty tank that is sometimes stamped around the top of the tank. 700-900 psi is typical pressure on the guage when it is full depending on the temperature. Weigh your tank next time before and after if you want to see the difference.

Thanks Guys, you're the best. My tank says 700, and that is measured @ 45 degrees--so I guess @ room temp it would read closer to 900.

I believe the extra upward measure on your PSI gauge might be so that the regulator could be used on larger tanks as well? That is what I always assumed....

When I get filled, it usually reads right around 800 at room temp for me. (5# tank)