Kegerators: Everything You Need to Know

Kegerators have become increasingly popular over the past few years, with many homeowners opting to install them in their homes. A kegerator is essentially a refrigerator designed to hold and dispense beer from a keg. If you are considering investing in a kegerator, it’s important to understand what they are, how they work and what to look for when purchasing one. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about kegerators, including their benefits, types, and maintenance.

How Kegerators Work

Kegerators work by keeping the enclosed beer keg cold and pressurized. The keg is placed inside the kegerator, which is a refrigerated cabinet that also contains a CO2 tank and regulator. The CO2 tank is used to pressurize the keg, which helps keep beer carbonated and flowing properly. The regulator controls the amount of CO2 that is released into the keg, which allows you to adjust the carbonation level to your liking.

Kegerators also come with a tap or faucet, which is used to dispense the beer from the keg. The tap is connected to the keg via a beer line, which carries the beer from the keg to the tap. The tap is opened by pulling the handle, which allows the beer to flow out of the tap and into a glass.

Types of Kegerators

There are several types of kegerators to choose from, each with its own set of features and benefits.

1. Mini Kegerators: These are small, portable kegerators that can hold one or two mini kegs. They are perfect for small gatherings or for personal use.

2. Single Tap Kegerators: These kegerators can hold one full-size keg and dispense one type of beer at a time.

3. Dual Tap Kegerators: These kegerators can hold two full-size kegs and dispense two types of beer at a time.

4. Outdoor Kegerators: These kegerators are designed for outdoor use and are built to withstand various weather conditions.

Benefits of Kegerators

There are many benefits to having a kegerator in your home. Here are some of the most significant:

1. Save Money: Buying beer by the keg is cheaper than buying individual bottles or cans. You’ll save money in the long run if you’re a frequent beer drinker.

2. Convenience: You won’t have to run to the store as often to restock your fridge, and you’ll always have fresh beer on tap.

3. Taste: Beer on tap tastes fresher and better than bottled or canned beer.

4. Customization: You can choose which beer you want to serve and create your own unique flavor combinations.

Photos Courtesy ZEPHYR

Choosing the Right Kegerator

When choosing a kegerator, there are several factors to consider, including:

1. Size: Make sure the kegerator is large enough to hold the size of keg you plan to use.

2. Capacity: Consider how many taps you want and how much beer you plan to dispense at once.

3. Temperature Control: Look for a kegerator with adjustable temperature control to ensure your beer is always at the right temperature.

4. Mobility: If you plan to move your kegerator around, look for one with wheels or a handle for easy transportation.

5. Price: Kegerators can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, so consider your budget before making a purchase.

Kegerator Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your kegerator continues to work properly and lasts a long time. Here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind:

1. Clean the lines and taps regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

2. Replace the CO2 tank as needed to ensure proper carbonation.

3. Keep the temperature consistent to prevent the beer from going flat or sour.

4. Use appropriate cleaning solutions to avoid damaging the kegerator’s components.

Here are some of the top kegerators on the market:

Zephyr Presrv Kegerator and Beverage Cooler

The Zephyr® Presrv Kegerator and Beverage Cooler is a compact refrigeration unit designed to store and serve both beer kegs and other beverages. It features single, dual and triple taps for dispensing multiple different types of beer at the same time and has a spacious interior that can accommodate up to a full-sized keg or multiple cans and bottles. The unit also includes adjustable temperature control, digital display, and a built-in carbonation system to ensure that beer is always dispensed at the optimal temperature and with the perfect level of carbonation. Its sleek and modern design makes it an ideal addition to any home bar or entertainment area. Check out some of Zephyr’s other beverage storage solutions on The Beer Connoisseur® Store.

EdgeStar Full Size Dual Tap Kegerator

This kegerator has a sleek, stainless-steel design and can hold two full-size kegs. It also comes with a digital temperature display and adjustable thermostat.

Kegco K309SS-2 Dual Faucet Digital Kegerator

This kegerator features a stainless-steel exterior, a digital temperature display and a dual faucet tower. It can hold two full-size kegs and has a large interior capacity.

Ivation Full Size Dual Tap Kegerator

This sleek black kegerator is well made and holds a half-keg. It features a dual tap chrome tower and can be converted into a beverage cooler when holding a keg.

Danby DKC054A1BSL2DB Dual Tap Keg Cooler

This kegerator can hold two full-size kegs and has a sleek, modern design. It features a digital temperature display, adjustable thermostat and scratch-resistant worktop.

Kegco HK38SSC-L-2 Kegerator

This kegerator is perfect for outdoor use and features a durable stainless-steel exterior. It can hold one full-size keg and features a digital temperature display, adjustable thermostat and internal fan for even cooling.

These are just a few examples of the many kegerators available on the market. When choosing a kegerator, be sure to consider your needs, budget and the features that are most important to you.

Kegerators are a fantastic addition to any home, providing convenience, cost savings and customization. With the variety of kegerators available on the market today, there is sure to be a model that meets your needs and fits your budget. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your kegerator operates efficiently and lasts for years to come. By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, delicious beer on tap in the comfort of your own home.