Are you considering taking your love for draft beer to the next level by investing in a kegerator? Look no further. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying a kegerator, from the basics to advanced features. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a homebrewer, or a bar owner looking to upgrade, this guide has got you covered.
Top 5 Reasons to Invest in a Kegerator
- Fresh Draft Beer at Home
There’s something special about pouring a pint of beer straight from the tap, and with a kegerator, you can enjoy that experience right in your own home. Unlike bottled or canned beer, which can lose freshness over time, draft beer from a kegerator stays crisp and flavorful from the first pour to the last. Plus, you’ll impress your friends and family with your ability to serve bar-quality beer without ever leaving the house.
- Cost Savings
While the initial investment in a kegerator may seem significant, it can actually save you money in the long run, especially if you’re a frequent beer drinker. Buying beer in kegs is often more cost-effective than purchasing individual bottles or cans, particularly for high-quality craft beers. Additionally, by buying in bulk and eliminating packaging costs, you can enjoy substantial savings over time.
- Variety of Beer Options
With a kegerator, you have the freedom to choose from a wide variety of beers to keep on tap. Whether you prefer classic lagers, hoppy IPAs, or rich stouts, you can rotate different kegs to suit your mood or impress your guests. Plus, you can experiment with homebrewed beers or limited-edition releases that may not be available in bottles or cans.
- Eco-Friendly Solution
For environmentally conscious consumers, a kegerator offers a more sustainable alternative to packaged beer. By opting for kegs instead of bottles or cans, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing packaging waste. Additionally, many breweries now offer refillable kegs, further reducing the environmental impact of your beer consumption.
- Entertainment Value
Owning a kegerator can enhance your home entertainment experience, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, game night, or holiday gathering. Your friends and family will love the novelty of pouring their own draft beer, and you’ll become the ultimate party host with your fully stocked kegerator.
Types of Kegerators
When it comes to choosing a kegerator, there are several options to consider, each offering its own set of features and benefits.
1. Full Size Kegerators
Full-size kegerators are the workhorses of draft beer dispensing, commonly found in bars, restaurants, and dedicated home bars. These units are designed to hold standard-sized kegs, typically half-barrel or quarter-barrel, and are suitable for those who enjoy a variety of draft beers or entertain frequently. Full-size kegerators often come with a built-in tap tower, drip tray, and temperature control, providing a complete draft beer experience at home. Here are four key points to consider about full-size kegerators:
- Capacity: Full-size kegerators can accommodate one or more standard-sized kegs, making them ideal for those who like to keep multiple beers on tap or entertain large groups.
- Versatility: With ample space for kegs, CO2 tanks, and other accessories, full-size kegerators offer versatility and convenience for homebrewers or beer enthusiasts who want to experiment with different brews.
- Built-in Features: Many full-size kegerators come with built-in features such as tap towers, digital temperature controls, and locking doors, providing added convenience and security for users.
- Professional Appearance: Full-size kegerators are designed to mimic the look and feel of commercial draft beer systems, giving your home bar or entertainment area a professional and polished appearance.
2. Mini Kegerators
Mini kegerators are compact and portable units designed to hold smaller kegs, typically around 5 liters in size. These smaller units are perfect for those with limited space or for special occasions where a full-size kegerator may be impractical. Here are four key points to consider about mini kegerators:
- Portability: Mini kegerators are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport for outdoor gatherings, tailgating parties, or camping trips.
- Space-Saving Design: With their compact size, mini kegerators are ideal for small apartments, dorm rooms, or home bars with limited space.
- Convenience: Mini kegerators are designed for simplicity and ease of use, with quick setup and hassle-free operation, making them perfect for casual beer drinkers or occasional entertainers.
- Affordability: Mini kegerators are often more affordable than full-size models, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who still want to enjoy draft beer at home.
3. Outdoor Kegerators
Outdoor kegerators are specially designed to withstand the elements and are perfect for outdoor entertaining, such as backyard barbecues, pool parties, or patio gatherings. These rugged units feature durable construction and weatherproof components, ensuring that your beer stays cold and refreshing no matter the weather. Here are four key points to consider about outdoor kegerators:
- Weather Resistance: Outdoor kegerators are built to withstand outdoor conditions, with rust-resistant materials and weatherproof seals that protect against moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations.
- Mobility: Many outdoor kegerators are equipped with heavy-duty casters or wheels, allowing for easy mobility and flexibility when setting up your outdoor bar or entertainment area.
- Durability: Outdoor kegerators are designed to be durable and long-lasting, with rugged construction and reinforced components that can withstand frequent use and exposure to the elements.
- Enhanced Features: Some outdoor kegerators come with additional features such as built-in bottle openers, towel racks, or integrated storage compartments, providing added convenience and functionality for outdoor entertaining.
4. Built-in Kegerators
Built-in kegerators are designed to be integrated seamlessly into cabinetry or countertops, providing a sleek and custom look for your home bar or kitchen. These stylish units offer a space-saving solution for homeowners who want to maximize space and create a cohesive design aesthetic. Here are four key points to consider about built-in kegerators:
- Customization: Built-in kegerators offer endless customization options, allowing you to choose the size, style, and finish that best complements your existing decor.
- Space Optimization: By installing a built-in kegerator, you can free up valuable countertop or floor space, creating a streamlined and clutter-free environment in your home bar or kitchen.
- Integration: Built-in kegerators are designed to blend seamlessly with your cabinetry or countertops, providing a clean and cohesive look that enhances the overall aesthetic of your space.
- Value: While built-in kegerators may require professional installation and customization, they add long-term value to your home and can enhance its appeal to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.
3. Commercial Kegerators
Commercial kegerators are heavy-duty units designed for businesses that serve draft beer, such as bars, restaurants, or breweries. These high-performance units are built to withstand continuous use and are available in a variety of sizes and configurations to accommodate different volumes of beer. Here are four key points to consider about commercial kegerators:
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Commercial kegerators are constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel or reinforced plastic, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliability in high-traffic environments.
- Customization Options: Commercial kegerators can be customized with additional features such as multiple taps, digital temperature controls, and locking doors, allowing businesses to tailor their setup to meet their specific needs.
- Performance: Commercial kegerators are engineered for optimal performance, with powerful refrigeration systems that ensure consistent cooling and dispensing of draft beer, even during peak hours of operation.
- Regulatory Compliance: Commercial kegerators are designed to meet industry standards and regulations for food safety and sanitation, ensuring compliance with health codes and regulations in commercial settings.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Kegerator
Now that you know the different types of kegerators available, it’s essential to delve deeper into the factors to consider when making your purchase decision. Buying a kegerator is an investment in your beer-drinking experience, and several key considerations can help you choose the right unit to meet your needs and preferences. Let’s explore these factors in more detail:
- Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of a kegerator are crucial factors to consider, as they determine how much beer you can store and dispense at once. Before making your purchase, take into account the available space in your home or commercial establishment and how many kegs you plan to keep on tap. Full-size kegerators are suitable for those who entertain frequently or enjoy a wide variety of draft beers, while mini kegerators are ideal for smaller spaces or occasional use. Additionally, consider whether you need room for accessories such as CO2 tanks or cleaning kits and ensure that the kegerator you choose can accommodate all necessary components.
- Features and Accessories
When shopping for a kegerator, consider the features and accessories that are important to you and your beer-drinking experience. Some kegerators come with built-in features such as tap towers, digital temperature controls, and locking doors, while others offer additional accessories such as keg couplers, CO2 tanks, and cleaning kits. Think about your preferences and how you plan to use the kegerator, and choose a unit that offers the features and accessories that best suit your needs. For example, if you enjoy serving different types of beer simultaneously, look for a kegerator with multiple taps, or if you prioritize ease of cleaning and maintenance, invest in a unit with a built-in cleaning kit.
- Price and Quality
When it comes to buying a kegerator, it’s essential to find the right balance between price and quality. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, investing in a higher-quality kegerator can save you money in the long run by providing better performance and durability. Consider your budget and how often you plan to use the kegerator, and choose a unit that offers the best value for your money. Look for reputable brands known for quality and reliability, and read reviews from other customers to ensure you’re making a wise investment. Remember that a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality, so do your research and choose a kegerator that meets your needs and fits within your budget.
- Brand Reputation
When buying a kegerator, it’s essential to choose a reputable brand with a proven track record of quality and customer satisfaction. Look for brands that have been in the industry for several years and have a reputation for producing reliable and durable products. Read reviews from other customers and check for any complaints or issues reported with the brand or specific models you’re considering. A reputable brand will stand behind its products and offer excellent customer service and support, ensuring that you have a positive experience with your kegerator for years to come.
- Warranty and Support
Finally, consider the warranty and support options offered by the manufacturer before making your purchase. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect you against any defects or malfunctions that may occur with your kegerator. Additionally, make sure the manufacturer offers reliable customer support and troubleshooting assistance in case you encounter any issues with your kegerator down the line. Look for a manufacturer that stands behind its products and offers responsive customer service, so you can buy with confidence knowing you’re getting a reliable product backed by excellent support.
By considering these factors in depth and doing your research, you can choose the perfect kegerator to meet your needs and enjoy fresh draft beer anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re looking for a compact mini kegerator for occasional use or a heavy-duty commercial kegerator for your business, taking the time to make an informed decision will ensure that you get the most out of your investment. Cheers to enjoying draft beer at home or on the go!
