Owning a kegerator can definitely be worth it if you and/or your friends or family members enjoy drinking beer. Not only can they save you money in the long run, but they can also add convenience and style to any home.
With a kegerator, you can keep beer cold and on-hand in your own home, eliminating the need to always buy beer from the store. Additionally, an attractive and well-stocked kegerator can really add a nice touch to a home bar or game room set-up.
If you enjoy hosting parties and having friends and family over, having cold homebrewed beer on tap will really impress your guests. The only thing to consider is that kegerators require some maintenance and upkeep.
You will need to regularly change out the CO2 and ensure your lines are clean so that your beer stays at its best. If you’re willing to put in the extra effort and already enjoy home-brewed beer, then a kegerator may be a worthwhile investment.
How do I build a custom kegerator?
Building a custom kegerator can be a fun and rewarding project that can save you money in the long run. To get started, you will need to identify the right type of equipment, set up a suitable location and install the necessary plumbing.
Here are the steps to build a custom kegerator:
1. Select the right kegerator type. Decide if you want a freestanding unit or an undercounter type that fits in a cabinet. Consider the size, voltage requirements, and cooling options.
2. Choose a location for the kegerator. It needs to have enough clearance both front and back for proper airflow and adequate space for bending and connecting the necessary lines.
3. Install the legally-required pressure relief valve if the kegerator is equipped with one. It must be installed on the outside of the unit.
4. Connect the CO2 tank to the kegerator using the regulator, beer line and fittings. Make sure to use the proper grade of beer line.
5. Tap the keg. Connect the beer line to the keg. Secure it with a nut, ensure the keg is tapped, and then run the beer line back to the beer shank.
6. Install the beer shank. Connect it to the beer line and insert it through the hole in the back of the unit. Secure it with the mounting ring.
7. Adjust the CO2 pressure. Once your kegerator is installed, you will need to adjust the CO2 pressure to ensure proper carbonation of the beer.
8. Inspect for leaks. Once everything is connected, do a visual inspection for leaks and use a pressure gauge to make sure the pressure is accurate.
9. Install a drip tray. Make sure you have a drip tray that’s attached to your kegerator so that any spills are contained.
10. Enjoy your beer. Now you’re ready to serve your favorite beer on tap!
How long does beer stay good in a kegerator?
Beer stored in a kegerator can stay good for up to 3 months, depending on a few factors. The overall quality of your beer will largely depend on the level of carbonation and how well you maintain the temperature of your kegerator.
Generally, the higher the carbonation, the shorter the shelf-life. Temperature is also a very important factor; if the beer is too warm it can quickly go bad and develop off flavors, while a cooler temperature helps store the beer in its original flavor.
Such as using a CO2 line cleaner and adjusting the pressure in the keg to the recommended level. Lastly, always make sure that the kegerator itself is clean and the seals are intact. Following these tips can help ensure the quality and longevity of beer stored in your kegerator.
How can I get a cheap kegerator?
One option is to shop around for used models. Check classifieds websites, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or even your local Goodwill or secondhand store to see if anyone is selling a used kegerator.
Alternatively, you could also look for sales or discounts on new kegerators, as a lot of retailers offer discounts on larger purchases. It’s also possible to buy a fridge and convert it into a kegerator yourself, with specialized conversion kits that are readily available online.
Finally, consider looking into refurbished models, as they may offer a discounted way of getting a kegerator that is still in very good condition.
How big of a fridge do I need for a kegerator?
When it comes to the size of refrigerator needed for a kegerator, it really depends on the size of your keg. Generally, you’ll need a refrigerator that can accommodate at least one full-size keg, a 5-gallon (half-barrel) keg or two 6-gallon (quarter-barrel) kegs.
You will also need to account for the extra space needed for the keg tap, CO2 tank, lines, and other accessories. However, if you only plan to dispense one type of beer, you can save a lot of space with a smaller keg.
So while some kegerators require full-size refrigerators, other models can easily fit into a smaller mini-fridge. If you decide to go with a mini-fridge, make sure it is large enough to comfortably fit a keg and all the necessary equipment for your desired setup.
Can I use a chest freezer as a kegerator?
Yes, you can use a chest freezer as a kegerator. A kegerator is simply a device that is used to store, cool and dispense beer from a single keg. A chest freezer is equipped with the necessary components to turn it into a kegerator such as adjustable thermostat, temperature control & a specially designed internal system.
To make a chest freezer into a kegerator, you need additional items such as D-couplers, long shank beer taps, a regulator, and beer line tubing. First, position the chest freezer on even ground, mount and secure the taps to the freezer lid, install the regulator and D-couplers to the freezer, and attach the beer tubing to the D-couplers.
Then, set the thermostat to the proper temperature for the kegerator and carbon dioxide tank, and plug in the chest freezer. Finally, connect the beer lines to the shank taps, attach the keg couplers to the keg, and switch on the regulator.
Following these steps should get you started with a chest freezer kegerator.
Which is better keezer or kegerator?
That really depends on a few factors. If you’re looking to store a lot of beer, a keezer is probably the better option as it can hold more kegs than a kegerator. Additionally, if you plan to brew your own beer and serve it on tap, a keezer is likely the better choice as it allows for you to fit two or more kegs side-by-side.
On the other hand, kegerators are generally easier to install, and come with the necessary components, such as taps lines, to get your keg tapped in no time. Additionally, kegerators are usually more aesthetically pleasing and take up less countertop space than a keezer setup.
Ultimately, it really comes down to which factors are most important for your situation.
How do I turn my fridge into a kegerator?
Turning your refrigerator into a kegerator can be a great way to add a convenient way of serving draft beer in your home. The first step is to make sure that you have the necessary equipment to turn your fridge into a kegerator.
This includes a keg, a draft tower and the appropriate fittings, a CO2 tank, a regulator and hoses, a keg coupler, and brewery approved shank. Depending on the type of beer you are serving, you may also need a specific piece of equipment like a Stout Faucet or a Nitro Faucet.
Once you have the required parts, the next step is to prepare and install the parts. Start by carefully measuring and cutting a hole in the top of your fridge to fit the draft tower. Then install the tower, attach the hoses to the tank, and ensure that the CO2 regulator is set properly.
Once everything is connected, you can then carefully add the keg to the kegerator and secure the lid.
The final step will look different depending on the type of beer you are serving. For standard beers, you should be able to add the appropriate coupler to the keg and you should be ready to enjoy a cold and refreshing pour of draft beer.
For more complex beers, like Nitro drinks, you will need to install additional parts and attach the Nitro Faucet.
Once everything is installed, you should be able to enjoy a delicious pour of draft beer right from the comfort of your refrigerator!
What size freezer do I need for 4 kegs?
If you will be using 4 kegs, you will need to make sure that you purchase a freezer that can house 4 kegs comfortably and still allows for some air circulation. The exact size you will need will depend on the shape and size of your kegs.
Generally a 5.2 to 7.2 cubic foot freezer is recommended for 4 kegs. This size range should provide enough room for the kegs to properly chill without overcrowding, allowing for proper air circulation and equal temperature in each keg.
Additionally, to ensure optimal efficiency and cooling, you will want to make sure that all the kegs are evenly spaced, so that none of them are too close together.
Can I drill holes in chest freezer?
In short, yes, you can drill into your chest freezer. However, it is strongly recommended that you exercise extreme caution when considering this option. Before drilling, consult your manufacturer’s guide to make sure that drilling into your chest freezer doesn’t void the warranty, as this may be a potential issue.
Additionally, ensure that your drill bit is appropriate for the job. You will either need a masonry or wood bit with a diamond-tipped tip. Also, make sure to adhere to all safety precautions when using the drill.
Once the drilling is complete, you will want to use an appropriate sealant to help protect the inside of your freezer from possible leakage due to the hole. Make sure to clean around the area before you begin the process to make sure that there are no dust particles that could interfere with the sealant’s effectiveness.
Finally, it is important to inspect the area regularly to make sure that the sealant is holding and the integrity of the freezer is being maintained.
How do you ferment a chest freezer?
Fermenting with a chest freezer requires a few different steps and materials. Firstly, you will need to find a chest freezer that is suitable for fermenting. Chest freezers are best because they are insulated, keep food at an even temperature and are easy to move.
You’ll also need an external digital temperature controller, an interior light, and a timer.
Once you’ve gathered all of the necessary materials, you can begin the fermenting process. Start by cleaning the freezer and organizing the shelves and drawers. Place the temperature controller inside the chest freezer, and be sure to mount it at the back of the freezer in order to avoid any hot spots.
Next, install an interior light to help keep track of the internal temperature. Connect the light to the timer, and set the timer to turn the light on and off throughout the day and night.
Finally, you will need to add a thermometer to the freezer in order to monitor the internal temperature. Place the thermometer at the back of the chest freezer and make sure that it is placed away from any heat sources and away from shelves or drawers.
You should also add an external thermometer to the outside of the chest freezer so that you can monitor the temperature easily.
Once you have followed all of these steps, you are now ready to start fermenting. Fill the chest freezer with your desired ingredients and set the temperature controller to your desired temperature. Monitor the temperature several times a day to ensure that the fermentation process is going smoothly.
You can also adjust the timer accordingly so that it is providing enough light during the day and night.
Ultimately, fermenting a chest freezer is a great way to store and ferment foods easily so that you can enjoy tasty recipes at home. With all the necessary materials, it’s a relatively straightforward process and will give you delicious results.
How do you make a kegerator freezer or keezer?
Making a kegerator freezer, or keezer, is relatively straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of tools. Here are the steps to do it:
1. Lay the kegerator chest freezer on the back and make sure the lid opens easily and securely.
2. Re-position the freezer’s air vent that is usually located on the very back side and make sure that the new location will allow property air flow to the interior of the freezer.
3. Drill through the lid of the kegerator chest freezer and install a shank and/or a shank with a long draw to dispense your beer. Make sure to caulk the edges of the drilled holes to ensure a watertight seal.
4. For the beer lines, you can use either beer line kits or run the lines yourself. Cut the beer lines to the lengths needed for the shank and make sure to check for any holes or pinholes in the lines.
5. Securely mount your CO2 tank to the lid or side of the cooler, depending on the design. Once the CO2 tank is mounted, connect the gas line to the shank and make sure to check for any leaks.
6. Once that’s all done, it’s time to fill up the keezer. Clean out the internal chest freezer and add ice or frozen water bottles or bricks in the bottom of the keezer to help with cooling and beer dispensing.
7. Place the kegs in the keezer and connect the beer lines to the corresponding kegs. Turn on the CO2 tank, set the desired pressure and adjust for proper balance. After that, you should be able to start dispensing beer from your newly built kegerator freezer or keezer.
How do you make a beer keg out of a refrigerator?
Making a beer keg out of a refrigerator is a great way to have a keg on hand without having to purchase a commercial keg. Start by deciding where you will place the keg and make sure that the opening of the fridge is accessible.
You will then need to purchase the components needed to turn the refrigerator into a beer keg: 1 x keg spear, 1 x gas disconnect, 1 x beer line assembly, 1 x gas line assembly, 1 x air distributor and 1 x air regulator.
Once you have all the components, dismantle the refrigerator and remove the shelves, ice maker and water dispenser, if applicable. Carefully measure and mark the location of the shank, making sure it is centred in the middle of the shelf opening.
Drill a hole large enough for the shank and place the shank into the hole. Secure the shank from the outside of the refrigerator and make sure it is level.
Connect the gas disconnect to the shank and run the beer line assembly from the shank to the outside of the refrigerator. Connect the gas line assembly from the gas disconnect to the outside of the refrigerator and connect the air distributor to the gas line.
Connect the air regulator to the shank and the gas line, making sure the regulator is set to the proper pressure.
Refit the shelves and other components you removed and you now have a functional beer keg out of a refrigerator.
What do you need to make a kegerator?
To make a kegerator, you will need the following:
-a refrigerator or freezer big enough to hold a keg
-a keg of your favorite beer
-a CO2 tank and regulator
-a beer faucet and shank
-tubing and clamps
-a drip tray
If you have all of those things, you can start setting up your kegerator. First, you’ll need to find a place for it. If you’re using a refrigerator, you’ll want to make sure that it is big enough to hold a keg (and that you can remove the shelves if necessary).
Once you have found a place for your kegerator, you can start assembling it.
The first step is to connect the CO2 tank to the regulator. Next, you’ll need to connect the keg to the CO2 tank using the tubing and clamps. Once the keg is connected, you can place it in the refrigerator or freezer.
After the keg is in place, you can install the beer faucet and shank. The last step is to install the drip tray. Once everything is in place, you’re ready to start serving beer!
How much does it cost to make your own kegerator?
Creating your own kegerator can vary in cost depending on the components you choose, the style of kegerator, and the overall complexity of your build. The basic cost of building a basic kegerator starts around $150-$200 for the core components, such as a refrigerator, cooling unit, and custom tap handle.
If you want more complex features, such as a dual-tap system, climate control, and/or custom cabinetry, the cost can range from $500-$2000 and can be considerably higher. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the cost of the kegs, beer, CO2 tanks and CO2 regulator, beer line and tap, cleaning supplies, and a kegerator cover.
It’s important to remember that the cost of these components can add up quickly, so it’s best to shop around and compare prices. Ultimately, the cost of creating your own kegerator will depend on the components and complexity of the build.
Is it worth having a kegerator?
A kegerator is a device that is used to store, dispense, and carbonate beer. Most kegerators are capable of storing and dispensing up to four kegs of beer. There are many benefits of owning a kegerator, such as:
1. Freshness – kegs of beer dispensed from a kegerator taste fresher than those that are dispensed from a traditional beer tap. This is because kegs of beer stored in a kegerator are not exposed to light or oxygen, which can cause the beer to spoil.
2. Cost savings – buying beer in kegs is usually cheaper than buying beer by the bottle or can. In addition, owning a kegerator can help to cut down on the cost of going out to drink.
3. Convenience – kegerators are very convenient, especially for those who entertain frequently. Having a kegerator means that you will always have cold beer on hand, and you won’t have to worry about running out or dealing with the hassle of returning empty bottles or cans.
Overall, there are many benefits to owning a kegerator. If you are a fan of beer and entertain often, then a kegerator may be a worthwhile investment.
Can you put a keg in a deep freezer?
Yes, you can put a keg in a deep freezer. It is an effective way to quickly cool down beer and other beverages so that you can serve them chilled. You will have to make sure your freezer is large enough to fit the keg and that you account for other items that may also need to be cooled.
When placing the keg in the freezer, make sure you place it on a flat surface and level it before turning the deep freezer on. Make sure that you allow plenty of air circulation at the top of the keg and that you keep the deep freezer closed when not in use to maintain the cold temperature.
Using a deep freezer to store a keg is ideal when you need to cool down the beverage quickly.
How do I run a CO2 line through my fridge?
Running a CO2 line through your fridge requires a bit of knowledge of how these systems work and steps that need to be taken to ensure a safe and effective CO2 line.
First, you need to decide where to place the CO2 line. If you’re using a dry-dispenser type of CO2 system, you’ll want to keep the line short and fairly close to the regulator and CO2 tank. If you’re using a direct-draw system, you’ll be able to place the line farther away, but still out of reach of children and pets.
For either system, you will need to measure and cut the CO2 line to size – it’s best to go a bit longer than necessary, as you can always trim off part of the line if needed. It’s a good idea to use a pipe cutter to make a clean cut.
Be sure to attach the appropriate fittings to the end of the line, in order to avoid any leaks.
Once the line is cut and the fittings are in place, you need to punching a hole in the wall of the fridge – this will be the entrance point for the CO2 line. Make sure to wear safety glasses when doing this.
You can then run the line through the wall, being sure to secure it with tape if necessary. Finally, attach the regulator to the end of the CO2 line and the system should be ready to use.
It’s important to make sure the CO2 line is secure and that no part of it is exposed to children or pets, as this can be a danger. Having a professional review the system for any potential problems is a good idea before using it.
