Kegerator Buying Guide | How to Buy a Kegerator
Indoor Vs Outdoor Rated Kegerators
If you’re planning to add a kegerator to your barbecue island, it's crucial to ensure that it is outdoor rated to handle the elements. Outdoor rated kegerators undergo durability tests to withstand a range of conditions, from freezing temperatures to scorching heat waves exceeding 100°F. While indoor refrigeration products maintain a consistent temperature, outdoor rated kegerators are designed to handle the external challenges of weather. They are typically freestanding on casters for mobility, but built-in options work well for those envisioning a bar in their outdoor kitchen. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for clearances and ventilation. Placing an outdoor kegerator in direct sunlight can force it to work harder to maintain proper temperatures due to increased temperature variables, so it is recommended you place it in a shady area. Still, many outdoor beer dispensers include an alarm to notify you of rising temperatures.
The biggest distinction between indoor and outdoor kegerators besides their rating lies in their mobility. Typically, an indoor kegerator is intended for fixed installation, remaining stationary once placed. Though it can be relocated if required, this process tends to be both time-consuming and costly, so this is usually avoided, if possible. Outdoor kegerators, however, typically offer greater mobility. These units are generally lighter, more portable, and engineered to endure the stresses associated with movement between different locations.
Choose Your Kegerator’s Configuration
Built-In Beer Dispensers
Also referred to as undercounter kegerators, these units are inserted into an outdoor kitchen or bar island with the top-mounted tap sticking out of the countertop. These models are required to be front-venting so they can exhaust heat to keep your beer icy-cold. There are also size constraints, namely that built-in beer and wine dispensers are much smaller than freestanding units and won’t be able to hold as much fluid. Most undercounter models can hold 1 half-barrel keg, though some will be too small for even that. Make sure you purchase a unit that can fit the most common keg size available in your area.
Freestanding Beer Dispensers
These are the most common type of outdoor kegerator and are great for garages, workshops, pool areas, or sitting at the end of an outdoor bar. Thanks to their large capacity, freestanding beer and wine dispensers are the easiest and most cost-effective way to ensure drinks continue to flow at large outdoor gatherings. They fit many keg sizes, and some units even have removable shelves for storing additional cans or bottles. Freestanding kegerators can vent from either the front or the rear if there’s enough space for proper ventilation. Some front-venting, freestanding models can be converted to built-in, just be sure to check your owner’s manual for specifics.
What Size Kegerator Do You Need?
The answer to this question will depend on how much beer, wine, or coffee you would like to keep on hand, and what keg sizes of your favorite beers are available. Once you get that sorted out, you’ll know exactly which size you need. Keep in mind that while kegs come in several different sizes, depending on the brewer, most beer is available in a full or half-barrel keg.
Start by researching the keg sizes of your favorite brews, then match kegerator to keg. You should also note that a half barrel keg takes up the same space as 2 quarter barrels, known as a “pony keg”, or 4 sixth barrels ("torpedo") kegs. That means a larger kegerator can hold several smaller kegs, giving you plenty of options for grill side drinking, whereas a smaller kegerator can’t go up in keg size.
Side Note: A half barrel keg takes up the same space as 2 quarter barrels (sometimes called “pony”), or 4 sixth barrels ("torpedo") kegs. That means a larger kegerator can hold several smaller kegs, whereas a smaller kegerator can’t go up in keg size. Options are always great, especially when it comes to grillside drinking. (Sorry for the math homework).
Single-Tap vs. Dual-Tap Kegerators
When considering kegerator options, whether single-tap or dual-tap, it's important to assess the advantages. Opting for kegs instead of cases or 6-packs not only reduces the long-term cost of drinking but also provides extra space for storing a variety of bottles and cans to suit diverse preferences. Deciding between one tap or two comes down to what you personally prefer and the range of drinks you plan to keep in your space.
Single-Tap Kegerators
This term describes beer and wine dispensers that use a single tap or are designed to pour from only one keg at a time. Naturally, these models are less expensive than dual-tap dispensers. They’re easy to install and great for beer-lovers who tend to stick to 1 brew at a time. Just don’t be fooled by the single tap—these units still serve plenty of your favorite beverages for all your backyard parties. Plus, depending on your keg size, some single-tap kegerators have room to store additional cans or bottles.
Dual-Tap Kegerators
These outdoor kegerators have more than 1 tap on the tower, which is the top part of the unit that dispenses the beverage. Though the most common setup comes with 2 taps, a few beer dispensers have towers with up to 3 taps. The more taps, the more variations you can serve at once. It’s the perfect choice for adventurous drinkers who crave variety. Remember that most craft beer is sold in sixth-barrels or torpedo kegs, an arrangement that usually works best in dual-tap beer dispensers. Some dual-tap units are large enough to hold multiple keg sizes at once for the ultimate at-home draft beer selection.
Which Class of Outdoor Kegerators is Right for You?
Understanding which outdoor kegerators work with your preferences saves a lot of time and effort. In this case, your choices are Luxury, Premium, and Standard. Each class represents a combination of quality, performance, and features, giving you an overview of what you can expect from specific groups of products. We’ve put together a quick glance at all 3 classes to help guide you toward the perfect kegerator.
Luxury Outdoor Kegerators
- Beer is kept safe from the elements thanks to durable stainless steel exteriors
- These kegerators have the highest possible quality of materials and the longest warranties available
- Powerful compressors ensure your brews are held at the appropriate temperature
- Locking doors guard the keg, allowing you to sit back and enjoy your beer without worry
- Digital control centers put you in full command of how your keg is stored
Premium Outdoor Kegerators
- Most carry outdoor ratings to function properly even in hot environments
- Stainless steel bodies backed by good warranties provide outdoor longevity
- Installation is easy with under-counter, zero-clearance units that vent from the front
- Durable compressors and forced-air cooling technology won’t let you down
- Attractive handles make your kegerator much more than a place to store beer
Standard Outdoor Kegerators
- Many don’t carry outdoor ratings, so they can’t reliably be used in an outdoor kitchen
- Painted metal exteriors will struggle to last long in the elements
- Limited warranties reflect the lower-quality materials used throughout these units
- Some lack front vents and have clearance requirements, which limits installation options
- Cold-plate refrigeration can save money upfront compared with forced-air systems
Things to Consider When Buying a Kegerator
If you're as dedicated to your beer, wine, or coffee as we are, we recognize that you want the best kegerator for the job. All these beverages have several options and variables and so do the appliances that serve them. This is why modern outdoor kegerators often come with extras like locking and self-closing doors, along with digital temperature control centers for added convenience and a touch of luxury.
DIY Tap Kits for Beer Kegerators
If you’ve got an old compact refrigerator, you just might have found a new DIY project. You can convert your old fridge into an outdoor kegerator. Be aware that many DIY tap kits are made to fit only certain models of refrigerators rather than working as a generic attachment. You also must be sure the fridge you want to use is appropriately sized for storing kegs and can maintain the ideal 45°F conditions for beer inside the unit. As with most DIY projects, this can save money, but will require more effort.
How Long Will Beer Last in a Keg?
The lifespan of your beer in a keg mostly depends on the type of beer you’re storing and whether it was pasteurized. For example, non-pasteurized beer under the pressure of CO2 can last for up to 60 days, while pasteurized beer in the same conditions should stay good for anywhere from 90 to 120 days. Either option is far better than a keg tapped with a standard party-pump tap, which lasts no more than 8–12 hours.
While you’re dreaming about having a refreshing drink straight from the kegerator tap, give our experts a call at 1-877-743-2269 and they can answer any further questions you have. You might as well drop by our Outdoor Living Design Service too, where we can help you build the outdoor bar of your dreams - beer dispenser included.
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