What is "volumes of CO2"?

Volumes of CO2 (vols CO2) measures carbonation level — one volume means one liter of CO2 dissolved per liter of beer at standard conditions. Most ales target 2.2–2.5 vols; lagers 2.4–2.8 vols; stouts 1.8–2.2 vols.

How long does force carbonation take?

At the correct equilibrium pressure, carbonation reaches near-full saturation in 24–72 hours. Colder beer and shaking the keg can speed it up, but patience at a stable pressure gives the smoothest result.

Why does temperature matter?

CO2 dissolves more readily in cold liquid (Henry's Law). Warmer beer requires significantly higher pressure to achieve the same carbonation level, so temperature is the most critical input.

Can I use this for serving pressure?

Yes — the equilibrium pressure is also the ideal serving pressure for a properly carbonated keg, assuming your beer line length and diameter are balanced to that pressure. Line-balance calculators account for the length/resistance separately.

What if my beer is already carbonated from fermentation?

Residual CO2 from fermentation (typically 0.5–0.85 vols) is already present. You can subtract that from your target and charge to the lower pressure, or simply set to the full equilibrium pressure and let the keg stabilize naturally.

Keg Carbonation Calculator

Name: Keg Carbonation Calculator
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter your target CO2 volumes and beer temperature to get the regulator pressure needed to carbonate your keg.

Carbonation Settings

Beer Temperature

Temperature of beer in the keg (not room temp)

Target CO₂ Volumes (vols)

Typical range: ales 2.2–2.5 | lagers 2.4–2.8 | stouts 1.8–2.2

Style Presets

Required CO₂ Pressure

Enter your settings and click Calculate

CO₂ Pressure Reference Table (PSI)

Equilibrium PSI at common temperatures and volumes

Temp	1.8 vols	2.0 vols	2.2 vols	2.4 vols	2.6 vols	2.8 vols	3.0 vols

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Summary

Enter your target CO2 volumes and beer temperature to get the regulator pressure needed to carbonate your keg.

How it works

Enter your beer temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius.
Enter your target carbonation level in volumes of CO2 (vols CO2).
The calculator applies the Henry's Law equilibrium equation to find the required dissolved CO2 partial pressure.
The result is shown in PSI and kPa — set your regulator to that number.
Leave the beer connected at that pressure for 24–72 hours for full carbonation.

Use cases

Force-carbonate a homebrew keg to style-accurate levels.
Dial in the correct regulator pressure for a commercial-style lager.
Determine serving pressure for a draft beer system.
Cross-check carbonation levels when troubleshooting flat or over-carbonated beer.
Calculate CO2 pressure for sparkling water or cider kegs.
Convert between PSI and kPa for different regulator gauges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-07-01 · Reviewed by Nham Vu