It is possible that the power electronic board of your beer dispenser is defective and needs to be replaced if you notice one of the following problems:
- the beer dispenser does not turn on or the lights do not turn green
- dispenser no longer cools: the beer coming out is too hot or too cold.
It will have to be tested with a multimeter before replacing it.
The electronic board is under the protective cover of the device.
Beer dispensers are a game-changer for beer enthusiasts, bringing the pub experience right into your home or business. They offer convenience, quality, and the pleasure of a perfectly poured pint. An essential component of these devices is the electronic card, which helps regulate temperature, pressure, and other vital aspects of the dispensing process. However, like any component, it can malfunction or wear out over time. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to test and change the electronic card of a beer dispenser.
Disclaimer: Dealing with electronic components can be hazardous if not done correctly. It’s always advised to consult with a professional if you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing these tasks yourself.
Testing the Electronic Card
Before deciding to replace the electronic card, it’s important to ascertain whether it’s the root cause of your dispenser’s problems. Here are a few signs that your electronic card may need testing or replacing:
- The dispenser isn’t cooling the beer to the correct temperature.
- The display panel (if available) is showing incorrect readings or isn’t working at all.
- The dispenser isn’t dispensing beer at the correct pressure.
To test the electronic card, you’ll need a multimeter, a device that measures electrical properties like voltage, current, and resistance.
- Disconnect the dispenser: First and foremost, disconnect the beer dispenser from its power source to ensure safety.
- Access the card: Open the dispenser’s casing to access the electronic card. The location and method of accessing the card will vary based on the model, so consult your dispenser’s user manual.
- Inspect the card visually: Before using the multimeter, do a quick visual inspection of the card. Look for any obvious signs of damage such as burns, cracks, or bloated capacitors.
- Use the multimeter: Set your multimeter to continuity mode. Then, probe each circuit on the electronic card. The multimeter should beep if there’s a continuous path for the current to flow (which is good). If there’s no beep for any circuit, it means there’s a break in the path, indicating that the card may be faulty.
If testing confirms the electronic card is faulty, you’ll need to replace it.
Changing the Electronic Card
- Order the correct replacement part: Ensure you order the correct replacement card for your specific beer dispenser model. Using an incompatible card could lead to further issues.
- Disconnect the dispenser: As before, start by disconnecting the dispenser from the power source.
- Access the faulty card: Open up the dispenser to reach the electronic card.
- Remove the faulty card: Carefully disconnect the wires attached to the card. It can be helpful to take a picture before you start so you remember where each wire goes. After disconnecting the wires, remove the card from its slot.
- Install the new card: Insert the new electronic card in place of the old one. Reconnect the wires as they were in the old card, referring to your picture if needed.
- Test the dispenser: Reassemble your beer dispenser and reconnect it to the power source. Test the dispenser to ensure it’s working correctly with the new card. It should now function and respond as expected.
Conclusion
Maintaining your beer dispenser and keeping it in top shape ensures that you continue enjoying your favorite brews in the best way possible. Understanding how to test and change the electronic card is a valuable skill, especially for those who love DIY projects. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to call a professional to avoid damaging your dispenser or voiding the warranty. Here’s to many more perfectly poured pints!
