A kegerator typically has a large drain hose that is situated at the bottom of the fridge unit. The hose is connected to the drain port of the beer tap and allows the melted ice, condensation, and liquid runoff from the beer lines to be removed.
Most drains have a shut-off valve, so the user can easily turn the drain on and off. When the valve is off, the water remains in the bottom of the keg and can be easily removed when desired or emptied periodically.
The water is usually directed to a nearby drain or a bucket. Many kegerators also come with a removable drip tray that sits at the bottom of the unit, which can help keep the excess water away from floors and other surfaces and makes cleaning up much easier.
What does a kegerator need to work?
A kegerator is a device specifically designed to keep beer cold and dispense it on demand. It consists of a refrigerator with a pressurized CO2 tank and keg of beer. In order for a kegerator to work properly, it needs the following components:
• Refrigerator: A standard refrigerator is essential for keeping the beer cold. If a dedicated kegerator is not available, a normal upright or chest style refrigerator can be used. It should have enough interior space to hold a keg and connect the beer line to the faucet.
• CO2 Tank: Since beer is carbonated,pressurized carbon dioxide (CO2) is needed to force the beer out of the keg. The CO2 tank needs to be connected to the keg with a gas line and regulator. The regulator controls the flow of gas and basically determines how quickly beer will come out of the faucet.
• Keg: A keg is essential for beer storage. A keg of beer has to be picked based on what type of beer is desired. Be sure to pick a keg based on its clearance to make sure it will fit in the kegerator.
• Beer Line: A beer line is typically made of plastic or vinyl and connects the keg to the faucet. The length and gauge of the beer line should be taken into consideration when choosing a line.
• Faucet: The faucet is the dispenser that releases the beer. It typically connects to the beer line and should be made of stainless steel or other food-grade materials. It’s often equipped with a shutoff valve so that it can stop the flow of beer when not in use.
• Cleaning Kit: A cleaning kit should also be purchased with a kegerator. This will help keep everything in good condition and prevent potential contamination from beerstone buildup. The kit should contain a cleaning solution, brush and other items needed for cleaning.
Do kegerators plug in?
Yes, kegerators do plug in. Kegerators are a combination of a refrigerator and a beer tap. They are designed to keep beer cold and dispense it with controlled pressure. In order to do this, they need to plug in to a standard household power outlet.
When plugged in, the kegerator will create an ideal environment for a beer keg, keeping the beer cold, and carbonated and ready for pouring directly from the tap. Some kegerators are also equipped with a CO2 regulator that plugs into the wall as well.
Installing a kegerator is not complicated, as long as there is an appropriate outlet nearby and enough space for the unit to fit.
Does a kegerator need a dedicated circuit?
Yes, a kegerator typically needs its own dedicated circuit when being installed. This is because a kegerator’s refrigerator and its associated components, such as its compressor and electronic thermostat, all draw a fair amount of power.
The power that it draws is greater than the power draw of many of your other appliances. Therefore, it is necessary to have a dedicated circuit to ensure that your kegerator has the power and electricity it needs to properly operate.
A dedicated circuit also helps reduce the potential of running multiple appliances on the same circuit, which could lead to power outages or blown fuses and circuit breakers. Additionally, a dedicated circuit also helps prevent potential fire hazards.
It is always recommended that you consult an electrician if you are unsure of the power requirements of your kegerator and need help installing a dedicated circuit.
Can you keep a kegerator in the garage?
Yes, it is perfectly possible to keep a kegerator in the garage. Many people opt to keep their kegerator in a dedicated space or indoor area like a shed or garage. A garage is a great spot for a kegerator, as you’ll likely have more space and a more accessible location.
Additionally, the garage will provide some insulation against changes in temperature and protect it from weather. Just make sure the kegerator is plugged into an outlet and is away from any potential water damage.
It’s also a good idea to keep the kegerator on a flat, level surface. If you’re using a purse or chest-style kegerator, make sure you position it on a stable surface and ensure that it won’t tip or be subject to any accidental shocks.
Lastly, you should check your kegerator manual for further instructions and safety guidelines.
Where can I get a CO2 tank filled for a kegerator?
You can get a CO2 tank filled for a kegerator at many local retailers or welding supply stores. You can also look online for stores that specialize in CO2 tank filling. Make sure to bring your empty tank and receipts when you go to get it filled.
When you get there, the retailer or welding supply store will inspect your tank for any potential hazards, including leaks, dents, and corrosion, and then fill it to the appropriate level. Most welding supply stores offer repairs and maintenance of CO2 tanks and therefore are generally willing to fill your tank.
However, make sure to double-check and do your research, as some retailers or welding supply stores may not fill CO2 tanks due to safety concerns.
How much does it cost to install a dedicated 20 amp circuit?
The cost of installing a dedicated 20 amp circuit depends on several factors, such as the existing wiring, the location of the circuit, and the type of materials and labor used. Generally speaking, a basic 20 amp circuit installation typically ranges from $100 to $250, which includes the cost of supplies, the labor, and any permit and inspection fees.
However, if the circuit needs to be run in a long distance or to be connected to other existing electrical systems, then the costs can increase significantly. In addition, if any special outlets or switches are required, then this will also cause the costs to rise.
What circuits need to be dedicated?
Dedicated circuits are typically used for high-powered devices that require their own dedicated power source, such as ovens, air conditioners and refrigerators. These circuits should not be connected to other devices requiring power or connected to a light switch.
In order to protect the device and the electrical system, dedicated circuits must be installed for these types of electrical appliances. Other items that should have dedicated circuits include washing machines, dryers, hot tubs, spas and large freezers.
Dedicated circuits for these devices help protect the device from power surges and reduce the potential of overloading a circuit. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires dedicated circuits for some devices, such as dishwashers and garbage disposals.
The NEC also requires dedicated electrical outlets for some types of laundry appliances and other motorized equipment. There are other safety considerations when installing a dedicated circuit, such as ensuring that the circuit is properly sized and should be GFCI protected.
Lastly, it is important to consider adding a dedicated circuit breaker to the electrical panel so the circuit is isolated and the power to the device can be easily shut off in an emergency situation.
Can a fridge and microwave be on the same circuit?
Yes, in some cases a fridge and microwave can be on the same circuit. Generally, however, it is recommended to use a different circuit for each appliance. A fridge typically requires more power than a microwave, so if they were to be on the same circuit, it could overload the circuit and trip the breaker.
This could also occur if multiple other kitchen appliances are on the same circuit. To avoid this potential issue and keep the circuit from being overworked, it’s best to install the fridge and microwave separate circuits.
Is getting a kegerator worth it?
It depends on a few factors. If you love to enjoy a fresh, cold beer at home, a kegerator can definitely be worth it. Kegerators are an economical solution for those who are frequent beer drinkers, as you can buy beer in bulk and save money in the long run.
In addition, when beer is poured from a keg, you can often enjoy a better beer experience, as the taste and texture is usually much better than that of a canned or bottled beer.
However, buying and setting up a kegerator can often be costly and time consuming. You need to make sure you purchase the correct size and type of kegerator to accommodate the types of beer you will be storing.
And you’ll need to buy a CO2 tank, tap kit and other accessories. In addition to the upfront costs, you’ll also need to factor in the maintenance and energy costs associated with keeping your kegerator running.
Ultimately, whether or not investing in a kegerator is worth it for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you don’t mind the initial cost and want to enjoy fresh, cold beer whenever you want, a kegerator can be a great addition to your home.
Do kegerators use a lot of electricity?
A kegerator typically uses a thermoelectric cooling mechanism, which is a relatively low-energy consuming method and doesn’t require a lot of electricity. A kegerator usually runs on 120 volts and 2.
5-3 amps of electricity, translating to an average of approximately 300 watts of power. In comparison, the average home refrigerator uses around 360 kwh of electricity every year, consuming between 90 and 120 watts per hour, so a kegerator uses notably less electricity in comparison.
Additionally, a kegerator typically uses a fan to circulate air and help maintain constant temperatures, but this also does not add a significant amount to the overall electricity usage.
How long does a 5 gallon CO2 tank last in a kegerator?
The amount of time a 5 gallon CO2 tank will last in a kegerator will depend on several factors, including how much beer is being poured, the size of the keg, and the operating pressure. Generally, the average 5 gallon CO2 tank will last for around 6-8 half kegs.
If the pressure is set to a higher level, it will dispense faster, which means the tank will need to be refilled more often. Larger kegs will also require more CO2 to push the beer through the lines, while smaller kegs will require less.
In addition, if you are frequently tapping and untapping the keg, the CO2 tank will be used up more quickly because more gas is need to pressurize the system. As a general rule, it is recommended to use at least 25-30 PSI when dispensing the beer.
Finally, how often the beer is being poured will also affect how long the CO2 tank will last. If you are only serving a beer occasionally, the tank will last much longer than if you are serving beer constantly every day or multiple days a week.
What is needed for a kegerator?
A kegerator is a refrigerated device used for storing, dispensing, and serving beer, and requires some special supplies in order to function properly.
The essential equipment that is needed for a kegerator includes a refrigerator, a CO2 tank, a regulator, hoses, a keg and a beer faucet. A refrigerator is needed to keep the beer cool, and there are many different types of refrigerators available which can suit any budget or aesthetic preference.
A CO2 tank is needed to provide the CO2 gas necessary for carbonating and serving beer. The tank should typically be around five or ten gallons in size. A regulator is needed to control the flow of CO2 from the tank and keep the pressure at a consistent level when beer is being served.
Hoses are necessary for connecting all of the components within the kegerator, including the CO2 tank, the keg, and the beer faucet. The correct type and size of hose should be used for the respective components in order for the kegerator to operate safely and effectively.
A keg is essential for the purpose of storing and serving beer. There are various sizes of kegs available; therefore make sure to choose the one that is best suited for the type of beer being served.
Lastly, a beer faucet is needed for pouring the beer. The correct type of beer faucet should be chosen according to the keg size, type of beer, and desired pour rate.
Once all of the necessary components have been gathered and installed, the kegerator should be ready to serve delicious, cold beer to friends and family.
How many 12 ounce beers are in a keg?
A keg is a type of beer container typically used for storing, transporting, and serving beer. Depending on the size of the keg, there can be anywhere from 5 to 7.75 U. S. gallons of beer. A standard U. S.
beer can or bottle is approximately 12 ounces, so a 5 gallon keg, which is the most common size, contains approximately 60 standard 12 ounce beers. A 7.75 gallon keg contains approximately 93 standard 12 ounce beers, and a 1/4 barrel (7.
75 gallon) keg contains approximately 82 standard 12 ounce beers.
Do you save money with a kegerator?
Yes, you can certainly save money with a kegerator. This type of appliance allows you to buy beer in bulk and dispense it without ever having to open a bottle or can. This means that you’re able to get more beer for your money and you don’t have to worry about wastage.
Not only that, but it can also keep your beer cold for longer than other methods, which can also help to save you money. Additionally, a kegerator can also provide you with a great way to entertain friends and family by offering them your own, freshly tapped beer!.
How much cheaper is a keg of beer?
On average, a keg of beer is much cheaper than buying the same amount of beer in bottles or cans. Depending on the type and quantity of beer, a keg can cost up to 75% less than bottled or canned beer.
For example, a standard keg of domestic lager usually costs around $85, while a 24-pack of 12-ounce bottles or cans would cost about $30 more. Even for more expensive craft beer, going for a keg instead of bottles or cans can save you at least 40%.
When you factor in the price of bottles or cans, ice, and deposit fees, a keg of beer can be a very economical option.
How long does a keg last with CO2?
A keg of beer will last almost indefinitely, provided it is stored in a cool, dark place and with CO2 pressure applied to it. Generally, if kept under optimal conditions, a keg of beer can last as long as 6-8 months when kept under the right pressure.
Of course, this can vary depending on the beer, the size of the keg, and other factors.
A keg must be kept cold in order to maintain its ideal taste, so it is important to store and serve it in a temperature-controlled environment. Most experts recommend storing a keg of beer at 35-40°F (2-4°C), and keeping the beer in a dark place away from direct sunlight.
Additionally, CO2 must be injected into a keg in order to achieve the desired pressure and prevent oxidation of the beer. The optimal pressure for most styles of beer is about 12-14 psi. This pressure should be checked and monitored periodically to make sure all the beer is at its freshest and most delicious.
With proper care, a keg of beer should stay fresh and foamy for 6-8 months or even longer if stored optimally.
Do you need a kegerator for a keg?
A kegerator is a refrigerated appliance designed to store and dispense kegs of beer. While not absolutely necessary for a keg, a kegerator can be a great option for those who want to save time and money on tapping and cooling beer and also keep their keg fresher for a longer period of time.
Without a kegerator, you would need to purchase a separate tap and cooling system for your keg in order to dispense the beer. A kegerator takes care of both of those needs in one appliance, making it the more efficient and convenient option.
It also helps ensure that you can keep your keg fresher, longer. So, while not strictly necessary, a kegerator is a great option for those looking to save time, money and effort on their keg of beer.
