Building a kegerator and installing it in your countertop is a relatively straight-forward process. You can buy all of the necessary parts and pieces online or at a local home appliances store, but here are the basic steps for the process:
1. Obtain a kegerator conversion kit and make sure it includes the necessary components such as the pressure regulator, tap handle, faucet shank, beer line, air line, fittings, and a carbon dioxide tank.
2. Decide on a suitable location for the kegerator. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can make beer warm. The location should also have access to an electrical outlet.
3. Next, begin assembling the parts. Start by connecting the gas fittings to the regulator, followed by connecting the gas line to the regulator. Then, attach the shank to the outside of the refrigerator.
After that, attach the beer line to the shank and finally the faucet.
4. Once the pieces are assembled, it is time to clean and sanitize them. Fill a plastic bucket with 12 ounces of unscented liquid bleach and two gallons of warm water and mix together. Submerge all of the pieces and let them sit for 2-3 minutes before rinsing them separately with cold water.
Allow all of the pieces to air dry.
5. Secure the regulator to the outside of the refrigerator and connect the gas line, beer line, and faucet shank to it.
6. Connect the power cord and thermometer to the refrigerator and plug it into the wall outlet.
7. Place the beer and carbon dioxide tanks in their allocated spots next to the refrigerator and use the connecting hoses to secure them in place.
8. With all of the pieces hooked up, turn the gas and power on and begin the carbon dioxide purge process. This process involves allowing the cold air to mix with the carbon dioxide before introducing the beer line.
9. Once the power, gas, and beer lines are all connected and the carbon dioxide purge process has been completed, it is time to fill the beer tank with the beer of your choice. Make sure the line is connected and securely attached to the regulator and beer shank.
10. Fill the carbon dioxide tank with carbon dioxide.
11. Allow the beer in the tank to carbonate for 24-48 hours before serving.
12. Check the pressure of the carbon dioxide tank every few days to make sure it is at the appropriate level.
13. If a countertop kegerator is desired, measure and cut the countertop to size and attach the kegerator to the top with clamps or adhesive.
14. Place the tap handle on the shank of the faucet and make sure it is secure.
15. Enjoy your cold beer!
How do I build a custom kegerator?
Building a custom kegerator can be an exciting project, especially if you’re a beer enthusiast! To get started, you’ll need some basic materials, tools and knowledge.
First, choose the type of enclosure you’d like to use to house the keg. You can use a regular refrigerator, a chest freezer, a plastic home brewing barrel, or a wooden bar cooler. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so make sure to think carefully about which one would suit your needs.
Once you’ve chosen the enclosure, you’ll need to drill holes in it for the components needed for the kegerator. Your components will include a carbon dioxide tank, a regulator, a coupler and a beer line.
Make sure to watch tutorials or follow instructions from the manufacturer to ensure you have the correct dimensions for these components, so that the kegerator will be safe to use.
Next, you will need to install the components in the enclosure. You may need to purchase additional pieces or adapters, based on the setup you are creating. Make sure to arrange the components carefully and secure them before connecting the beer line.
Once the components are installed, connect the beer line and test the carbon dioxide pressure. Then, you should be able to enjoy beer from your custom kegerator!
If you’re looking for additional guidance, consider consulting with a professional or experienced kegerator builder, or even visiting a brewery or homebrew supply store to get tips. Happy brewing!
How do you mount a kegerator under the counter?
Mounting a kegerator under the counter is a great way to easily access your favorite draft beer and keep it cold at a convenient height. Here are the steps to properly mount your kegerator:
1. Before you begin, make sure you have the right measurements. Measure the width and depth of your kegerator and the height of the counter you plan to mount it beneath.
2. Next, cut the necessary hole in the counter top. Make sure the hole is slightly smaller than the width and depth of your kegerator; you’ll need enough space to allow the kegerator to fit through the hole, but too much and you’ll be left with large gaps.
3. Once your hole is cut, you’ll need to create a mounting box beneath the counter top. Use 1×4 boards and attach them to the underside of the counter top so that they form a large, square U-shape – the sides should be tall enough to fit the width and depth of the kegerator.
4. Place the kegerator into the mounting box and secure it tightly against the walls of the box by drilling screws through the top of the box and into the kegerator. Make sure the kegerator is securely in place prior to connecting any tubing.
5. Connect the hoses from the keg or beer lines to the shank and attach the air lines to the kegerator before securing the lid tightly.
6. Plug the kegerator into an electrical outlet nearby to complete the process, and enjoy your cold beer!
Can a chest freezer be used as a kegerator?
Yes, a chest freezer can be used as a kegerator. The first step is to purchase a temperature controller to regulate the temperature of the freezer. You’ll also need some basic supplies such as a CO2 tank and regulator, a 3/16” tap shank with a strain relief, a beer line that’s long enough to reach from the tap shank, a beer faucet, a coupling nut, a beer line washer, and a beer line cleaning kit.
To use it for kegging, you’ll need to drill a hole for the tap shank and install it. This will allow the CO2 and beer line to attach securely and prevent leaking. Once the supplies are in place, you can attach the CO2 tank to the regulator and then attach the regulator to the tap shank.
Make sure to check levels with a CO2 pressure gauge and adjust to your preference. You can then attach the beer line to the coupling nut and the beer faucet and set it in place. Finally, you can fill your keg with beer, attach it to the CO2 tank, and chill it according to your desired temperature.
Your chest freezer can then double as a kegerator!.
How can I make a cheap kegerator?
Making a cheap kegerator is not an impossible feat – it just takes a bit of ingenuity and some careful budgeting. The great thing about kegerators is that you can customize them to fit your needs and budget.
To get started, you’ll need to purchase a mini refrigerator, and the most important part of a kegerator is the draft system itself. You can purchase a two-tap system for around $100 or you can shop around and compare prices to find the best deal.
Once you have the mini fridge and draft system, you’ll need to assemble the kegerator. You’ll want to measure the interior dimensions of the fridge and cut two holes that will house the taps on one side, and the CO2 tank on the other.
Be sure that the holes are wide enough for components to fit, but not so wide that the insulation or metal of the fridge is compromised. Now you can install the CO2 tank and taps inside the fridge.
The final step is the insulation – you’ll need to wrap the entire inside in foam or fiberglass insulation to help keep the temperature even. This can be done DIY or you can purchase a pre-wrapped kegerator kit for around $40.
Finally, you’re ready to enjoy your cold, freshly tapped beer! Just be sure to perform regular maintenance to ensure that your kegerator is in tip-top condition.
How do you make a kegerator freezer or keezer?
Making a kegerator freezer or keezer is a great way to bring the professional beer-tapping experience into your home. The process for assembling one of these pieces of equipment isn’t overly complicated but does require some specific instructions to ensure the safety of your finished product.
To get started, you’ll need a standard chest freezer or refrigerator, some basic tools and supplies, and a few hours of your time.
First, you’ll want to plan out how to arrange your taps. Generally speaking, a five-tap system requires two lines each running to the refrigerator and three lines running to the chest freezer. You can then use a manifold to allow multiple taps to run on a single line.
Second, you’ll need to drill holes into the side of your freezer and/or refrigerator to accommodate the lines and taps. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the correct size and placement of the holes.
When drilling, double-check to make sure you aren’t puncturing any wiring or cooling tubes.
Once the holes are created and the lines are installed, it’s time to fill the freezer/refrigerator. Generally, you’ll want to start with the coldest item- typically the kegs- then work in the bottles and cans.
Finally, attach the regulators and taps to the manifold and line. Make sure the lines are secure and the regulators are properly hooked up. Then, you’re ready to enjoy a cold beer from the comfort of your own home.
Can I drill holes in chest freezer?
Yes, you can drill holes into a chest freezer, but it needs to be done with precision and exact measurements to avoid potential damage. You will need to take into account the location of any wires or other internal components that could be affected by the drilling.
Pre-measured templates or stencils should be used to guide the drilling process and to make sure that it is done right the first time. It is also important to use the right drill bit, as the wrong material or size can cause major problems and damage.
Finally, make sure to wear the appropriate safety gear, such as eye protection and gloves, during the entire procedure.
What size freezer do I need for a keezer?
The size freezer you will need for your Keezer will depend on the size of equipment you plan to store inside. If you plan to store a Cornelius keg and the accompanying hardware in the freezer, you will need a freezer that is at least 7 cubic feet.
Most full-size fridges and freezers have between 9 and 17 cubic feet of storage space, so you will have plenty of space with these models. Some more compact models of freezers may be small enough to fit in a tight space but make sure to check the dimensions.
It’s also important to consider other pieces of equipment you plan to store in the freezer, as this will affect the size you’ll need. If you have a large fermentation vessel or other equipment that requires more internal space, you may need to consider a larger model.
Be sure to read the dimensions carefully before making a purchase.
Can you put a kegerator inside a cabinet?
Yes, you can put a kegerator inside a cabinet. To do this, you’ll need to make sure there is ample ventilation and space between the kegerator and the walls of the cabinet. Without adequate ventilation, the compressed gas and heated liquids can cause an increased risk of fire, as well as produce unhealthy levels of condensation.
The bottom of the kegerator should be raised off the ground, and you may need to make some adjustments with the shelving inside the cabinet to provide proper clearance. Additionally, consider installing an exhaust fan inside the cabinet to help protect the electronic parts and reduce the risk of a fire, as well as create a cooler and drier atmosphere in the cabinet.
Finally, make sure you consult the installation manual that came with your kegerator for more detailed instructions.
How much does it cost to build your own kegerator?
It can cost anywhere from around $200 to over $1,000 to build your own keg fridge, depending on the route you go. Building your own fridge gives you more control over the final product, but is more expensive and time-consuming than buying a ready-made kegerator.
Factors that will affect the cost of building your own kegerator include the cost of the fridge itself, how much insulation and sound-proofing you need, what kind of tap system you want, and whether you want to include any additional features like a growler filler or a beer line chiller.
The most expensive part of the build is usually the fridge itself. A used fridge can be had for as little as $50, but you’ll likely want to spend a bit more for something that’s more energy-efficient and easier to adapt to your needs.
Newer, mid-range fridges can cost around $200 to $400.
After the fridge, you’ll need to factor in the cost of insulation and sound-proofing. This is especially important if you’re planning on building a kegerator that will live in your home, as you don’t want it to be too loud or vibrate too much.
Insulation and sound-proofing materials can cost around $100 to $200.
The tap system is another important consideration. You can go with a simple single-tap system for around $100, or a more elaborate multi-tap system for $200 to $300. If you want to include a growler filler or beer line chiller, you can expect to add another $100 to $200 to the cost of the build.
In total, you can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to over $1,000 on your kegerator build. The final cost will depend on the quality of the fridge, the complexity of the tap system, and whether you include any extra features.
Is it cheaper to buy a keg or cases of beer?
It depends on the type of beer, quantity purchased, and where it is purchased. Generally speaking, kegs are usually more cost effective than cases of beer. This is because when buying a keg, you typically pay for the beer only, and do not have to pay for packaging.
Kegs are generally sold by the gallon, so the more you buy, the better the price per gallon. Cases of beer usually require paying for packaging and shipping in addition to the cost of the beer, which can add to the cost.
In addition, craft and specialty beers tend to be more expensive when purchased in cases than when purchased in a keg. It is also important to note that keg deposits, rentals, or tapping fees may apply when buying a keg.
These fees can range from $30-$150 or more, so be sure to factor them in when deciding if buying a keg is cheaper. Purchasing beer at local brewery can also be a cost effective option, as they often offer discounts or discounts on large purchases.
Ultimately, it is best to compare the cost of purchasing a keg or cases of beer at different stores to determine the cheapest option.
Is a home kegerator worth it?
Whether a home kegerator is worth it depends on your individual preferences and your individual situation. While some people might find having a kegerator at home convenient, for others it could end up being a costly and unnecessary purchase.
Pros of having a home kegerator include the ability to store and dispense beer at home, savings from not having to buy bottles or cans of beer, and a reduction in waste from not having to recycle or throw away these items.
Having a kegerator could also give you more control over the temperature and flavors of your beer, as you can customize the settings to your liking.
However, for some people a home kegerator might not be worth it. Depending on the size and power of the kegerator, you may need to invest in additional space and electrical outlets to hold and power your kegerator.
Additionally, after the initial up-front cost to purchase and install the kegerator, you’ll be paying a premium cost for the beer you choose to use in the unit, and you may need to buy supplies or parts to keep the kegerator running.
If these costs outweigh your savings or convenience from having the kegerator, it might not be a worthwhile investment for you.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if a home kegerator is worth it. If you think having one will provide convenience, cost-savings, and/or improved beer storage compared to other options, then it might be a worthwhile purchase.
However, if the additional costs outweigh these benefits, then it might be best to pass on a kegerator.
How much does a kegerator cost?
The cost of a kegerator can vary greatly depending on the size and features you are looking for. Generally, most full size kegerators range from $400 to $1,000. Homebrew kegerators tend to run on the lower end of that cost range.
If you want to save some money, you can try and purchase a used kegerator from a local store or online. If you decide to go this route, be sure to thoroughly check out the product for any major defects or leaks before committing to a purchase.
How long does beer stay good in a kegerator?
Beer can generally stay good in a kegerator for up to three months, depending on the type of beer stored. Generally, lagers, pilsners and wheat beers have a longer shelf life than ales, stouts and other beers with higher levels of hop bitterness.
The temperature of the kegerator also plays a role in how long beer can stay good, as storing beer at temperatures on the lower end of the suggested range can help extend the beer’s shelf life. It’s also important to clean your kegerator regularly to prevent wild yeast from building up, which can cause off-flavors and make beer spoil early.
Taking these steps can help ensure that you enjoy your beer for up to three months.
Which is better keezer or kegerator?
Ultimately, the decision of whether a keezer or kegerator is better for you depends on your needs and preferences. For example, if you’re looking for something that’s easy to set up and doesn’t require much maintenance, you may want to go with a kegerator, as it’s more automated and requires less customization.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something that’s more easily customizable, a keezer may be better. With a keezer, you can customize the size, number, and even type of taps, giving you greater control over the aesthetic and practical aspects.
You can also purchase multiple kegs or use a line splitter, allowing you to keep more beer on tap.
Additionally, with a keezer, you can build and add on elements to accommodate more kegs, which can be beneficial for those who plan to use it for frequent parties or events. With a kegerator, you’re limited to just one or two kegs.
Keezers also tend to provide better insulation than kegerators, as you can adjust and add more insulation or chillers to make sure your beer stays cooler, longer.
In the end, the decision between the two is really up to your needs, preferences, and budget. With all of this in mind, we ultimately recommend considering a keezer over a kegerator if you want something that requires more customization and can accommodate more kegs.
How do you turn a refrigerator into a kegerator?
In order to turn a refrigerator into a kegerator, you’ll need to prepare the fridge and take some careful measurements before you can begin the conversion process. First of all, you’ll have to make sure you have the right kind of fridge.
Your best bet is to use a dedicated kegerator fridge, as these are designed specifically for the job. It’s also important to make sure that you have enough space inside the fridge. Most full-size kegerators require at least 17 inches of space inside the fridge for the keg.
Once you have the fridge ready, the next step is to install the draft tower. You’ll need to measure the distance between the top of the fridge and the bottom of the draft tower to make sure the tower will fit comfortably.
Make sure to double-check your measurements before you begin drilling into the fridge. Once the draft tower is installed, you can attach the beer line and begin installing the CO2 tank.
Once all of the hardware is in place, you’ll need to make sure the lines are connected properly. Make sure the beer line is connected to the draft tower and the CO2 tank is connected to the regulator.
This connection should be sealed tightly to avoid any leaks.
Once everything is connected, you’ll need to adjust the CO2 score. Turn up the pressure until a good level of carbonation is reached. Then, it’s time to attach your keg and begin pouring. Make sure to clean the lines between each keg to prevent any bacteria from building up.
Following these steps should help you convert a standard refrigerator into a fully functioning kegerator. Just make sure to double-check your measurements and ensure all of the lines are properly connected.
With some careful preparation, you should be able to enjoy fresh drafts from your custom kegerator in no time.
Is it worth having a kegerator?
It definitely depends on the person’s individual needs and preferences, but having a kegerator can certainly be worth it for many people. A kegerator is an appliance that stores, cools and dispenses beer, allowing for a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to enjoy a favorite brew.
The biggest advantage of having a kegerator is never having to worry about having an empty fridge or worrying about running out of cold beer. A kegerator also helps to maintain the freshness and flavor of the beer for longer, compared to canned beer that may have been sitting in a fridge for a while.
Additionally, they look great in a home bar or entertainment area. Kegerators are also relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of buying pre-filled cases of beer regularly. With all that in mind, a kegerator can definitely be worth it for many beer enthusiasts and regular party hosts.
How big of a fridge do I need for a kegerator?
Finding the size of the refrigerator needed for a kegerator is primarily determined by two factors: the number of kegs you plan on dispensing, and the amount of additional storage space needed for supplemental items like soda, juice, or snacks.
If you plan on storing 1 or 2 kegs and only require limited additional storage space for supplemental items, then a mini-fridge (4-5 cubic feet) should suffice. On the other hand, if you need to store anywhere from 3-6 kegs, then a full size refrigerator (16-20 cubic feet) is more appropriate to ensure adequate space for your kegs and supplemental items.
In addition to size, consideration should also be given to additional features like shelving and temperature control. While these added features may not greatly impact the initial cost of the fridge, they can be essential for properly storing and cooling your items.
How do I run a co2 line through my fridge?
Connecting a CO2 line to a refrigerator involves running the tubing to the inside of the refrigerator, attaching the line to the CO2 manifold on the back of the refrigerator and then attaching the other end of the tubing to the CO2 tank and regulator.
To properly run a CO2 line through your fridge, you should first shut off electricity to the refrigerator and disconnect the tubing from the refrigerator’s back panel. Next, measure the distance between the regulator set-up and the back panel of the refrigerator.
Cut the tubing to that length and attach it securely to the regulator and back panel of the refrigerator using the appropriate fittings and connections. Once the CO2 line is securely installed and connected, you should turn the electricity back on to the refrigerator and open the CO2 regulator to begin supplying the refrigerator with CO2.
After the refrigerator receives the desired amount of CO2, you should close the regulator and monitor the CO2 pressure in the refrigerator to ensure that it is running at the desired level.
How do you make a beer keg out of a refrigerator?
Making a beer keg out of a refrigerator is a relatively easy task. Before you begin, make sure that the refrigerator is thoroughly cleaned out and all old food items are removed so that your beer will stay fresh.
Start by removing the shelves and any other parts that may be inside the refrigerator that is not necessary. Once you’ve done that, there are a couple of steps left to complete the keg construction.
The first step is to drill a ¾-inch diameter hole in the side of the fridge, about 2 inches from the bottom. Once the hole is drilled, fit a ¾-inch fitting with a nut and a gasket into the wall of the fridge.
Be sure to secure the nut tightly but not too tight as to snap the threads.
After you have secured the fitting, use a hose barb and a gasket to attach a beer line to the fitting. This beer line should run from the right side of the fridge to the fitting. Secure the beer line with a hose clamp.
The next step is to insert a CO₂ cylinder. The CO₂ should fit through the ¾-inch fitting in the wall of the fridge and screw into a regulator. This will help to pressureize the fridge and control the carbonation from the keg.
Once the CO₂ is secured, insert the beer shank and nut into the fitting and make sure it is tightly screwed in. Finally, attach the beer coupler to the shank and place a beer keg inside of the fridge.
Secure the keg with a few clamps or a bungee cord and you have now successfully made a beer keg out of a refrigerator!.
