Want fresh, crisp beer on tap at home? Your CO₂ cylinder is the secret ingredient. Whether you're brewing with the F1 or S1, your SodaStream cylinder plays a vital role in keeping beer fresh and carbonated for up to 30 days. It even powers Sparkling Mode, letting you add bubbles to any drink—not just beer.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about CO₂ cylinders: what they are, how to install them, when to replace them, where to buy them, and how to troubleshoot common issues. Let’s dive in.
1. What Is a CO₂ SodaStream Cylinder and Why Do You Need It?
A CO₂ cylinder—also known as a carbonator—is a pressurized tank filled with carbon dioxide gas. In beer brewing, it serves two essential purposes:
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Carbonates the beer: It injects CO₂ to give your beer its signature fizz.
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Keeps beer fresh: It prevents oxidation and spoilage by creating a protective layer over the liquid.
The F1 and S1 brewers are designed to work seamlessly with SodaStream 60L Blue Cylinders, which are widely available and easy to install. Each cylinder can carbonate up to 20 gallons of beer, making it a key player in every pour.
2. How the CO₂ System Works in the F1 and S1 Brewers
F1 Brewer
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Built-in CO₂ adapter located at the back of the unit.
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Compatible with SodaStream Blue 60L cylinders (TR21*4 thread).
S1 Brewer
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Supports CO₂ through an external CO₂ Cylinder Adapter.
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Works with SodaStream cylinders or a CO₂ tank with a regulator using iGulu's CO₂ Cylinder Adapter.
3. Choosing the Right CO₂ Cylinder
Standard Option Recommended:
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SodaStream Blue 60L CO₂ Cylinder
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Thread: TR21*4
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Compatible with both F1 and S1 brewers (S1 Brewer requires CO₂ Cylinder Adapter)
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How Long Does a 60L CO₂ Cylinder Last?
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A single 60L cylinder can carbonate up to 20 gallons of beer.
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On average, this lasts users 6–10 months, depending on:
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How often you brew
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How long your recipes take to complete
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How long beer stays inside the brewer (especially for cooling and storage)
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3. Choosing the Right CO₂ Cylinder
Standard Option (U.S. Customers):
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SodaStream Blue 60L Cylinder (TR21*4 thread): Recommended for both F1 and S1 users.
How Long Does It Last?
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One 60L cylinder can carbonate up to 20 gallons of beer.
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For most users, that’s 6-10 months, depending on how long your recipes take to brew and how long you keep your beer in the F1 brewer to cool.
7. Where to Buy a CO₂ Cylinder
For U.S. Customers:
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SodaStream 60L Spare Carbonator (Blue Version)
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Buy from:
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In-store or online at Walmart, Target, or Best Buy
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For International Customers:
CO₂ Cylinder Specs:
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Look for thread size TR21x4 or M18x1.5 model cylinders
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Available on SodaStream.com in select international markets
For Australian and New Zealand Customers:
You may need a CO₂ adapter to connect local tanks to your brewer.
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Adapter Option (variety of TR21*4 to G1/2 Type 30 options):
eBay Adapter Search
Steps to Install CO2 Cylinder:
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Remove the dust cap from the pressure regulator screw port.
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Ensure the pressure regulator switch is in the off position.
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Invert the carbon dioxide cylinder & insert it into the pressure regulator screw port along the guide frame then tighten it by turning clockwise.
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Open the pressure regulator switch. If the pressure gauge shows a reading, it means the installation was successful and the cylinder has gas.
Pro Tip: Keep the dust cap safe and place it when the cylinder when it's not in use.
Step-By-Step Video Tutorial:
5. When and How to Replace the CO₂ Cylinder
Signs It’s Time for a Replacement:
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Beer pours flat or under-carbonated.
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Pressure gauge is low or reads zero.
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Sparkling Mode no longer works.
Replacing the Cylinder:
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Turn off the pressure switch.
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Unscrew the cylinder counterclockwise.
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Expect a small hiss of gas—that’s normal.
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Swap in a new one using the same installation steps above.
How to Adjust the CO2 Pressure
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Go into craft/pressuring & long press the button on screen to add pressure from the CO2.
9. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Cylinder won’t fit?
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Double-check threading. It must be TR21*4 (standard SodaStream size).
Poor carbonation?
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Check for low pressure or an empty tank. Also make sure the regulator is fully open.
Gas leak?
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Confirm all connections are tight and secure.
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Always install or remove with the pressure switch turned off. Avoid removing or installing the cylinder without closing the pressure regulator first. It’s not dangerous, but the gas will be ejected quickly and in large quantities.
Beer is too Foamy?
- Check out our blog on How to Reduce Foaming when Pouring from the F1: https://igulu.com/blogs/brewers-workshop/beer-foam-101-the-science-behind-the-perfect-pour?_pos=1&_sid=d9a791449&_ss=r
Conclusion
Your CO₂ cylinder is more than just a cartridge—it’s what brings your homebrewed beer to life. With the right setup and regular maintenance, your F1 or S1 brewer can keep every batch tasting fresh, bubbly, and perfectly carbonated for weeks.
FAQs About CO₂ Cylinders
Q: How long does a 60L CO₂ cylinder last?
A: On average, 20 gallons of beer or 6-10 months, it varies based on how often you brew, how long each recipe takes to brew, and how long you keep your beer in the brewer to cool.
Q: Can I use non-SodaStream CO₂ cylinders?
A: Only if they’re compatible with TR21*4 threading and similar specs. Always check before using off-brand options.
Q: What if I hear a CO₂ leak or hissing?
A: Turn off the regulator, re-tighten the cylinder, and check the seal. A leak may indicate an improper connection.
Q: Can I keep the cylinder connected to the brewer?
A: Yes, the F1 is designed to keep the cylinder installed for long periods of time. Just ensure the pressure switch is off when not in use.
Q: Are CO₂ cylinders safe?
A: Absolutely—but always handle with care. Don’t expose cylinders to extreme heat, and follow the installation steps closely.
