Building a kegerator can be a fun and rewarding project for any beer enthusiast. Not only does it allow you to have your very own draft beer at home, but it can also save you money in the long run compared to buying individual bottles or cans of beer. The cost of building a kegerator can vary depending on several factors, including the type of refrigerator you choose to use, the conversion kit you purchase, and any additional accessories or modifications you decide to make.
The most significant expense when building a kegerator is typically the refrigerator itself. While a dedicated keg fridge can cost around $400 or more, you can save a significant amount of money by repurposing an old or spare refrigerator. This is a great option if you have one lying around or can find a used one for a reasonable price. It's important to ensure that the refrigerator is in good working condition and has enough space to accommodate a keg.
Once you have a refrigerator, you will need a conversion kit to transform it into a kegerator. These kits typically include a CO2 tank, regulator, beer lines, faucet, and all the necessary fittings and connectors. The cost of a conversion kit can range from around $100 for a basic kit to over $300 for a more advanced kit with additional features. It's important to choose a kit that suits your needs and budget.
In addition to the conversion kit, there are a few other accessories you may want to consider purchasing. These include a keg coupler, which allows you to connect the keg to the beer lines, and a drip tray to catch any spills or drips. These accessories can typically be purchased for around $30 to $50 each.
To keep your keg cold, you will also need a temperature control device. This can be a simple thermostat or a more advanced temperature controller, depending on your preferences. The cost of a temperature control device can range from around $50 to $100.
Here's a breakdown of the potential costs involved in building a kegerator:
1. Refrigerator: $0 (if repurposing an existing refrigerator) to $400+ (for a dedicated keg fridge)
2. Conversion kit: $100 to $300+
3. Keg coupler: $30 to $50
4. Drip tray: $30 to $50
5. Temperature control device: $50 to $100
Additional costs may include cleaning supplies for maintaining the kegerator, extra beer lines, and any customization or modifications you decide to make. It's also worth noting that prices can vary depending on the brand and quality of the products you choose.
While building a kegerator can require a financial investment, it can ultimately save you money in the long run if you frequently enjoy draft beer. Additionally, having the ability to pour your own beer at home can be a fantastic experience and a great way to impress your friends and family.
Personally, I have built a kegerator using an old refrigerator that I had sitting unused in my garage. I purchased a basic conversion kit and a keg coupler, and the total cost came out to around $200. The process was relatively straightforward, and I found it to be a fun DIY project. Since then, I have enjoyed the convenience and cost savings of having my own kegerator at home.
The cost of building a kegerator can vary depending on the refrigerator, conversion kit, and accessories you choose. By repurposing an existing refrigerator and opting for a basic conversion kit, you can build a kegerator for around $200. However, if you prefer a dedicated keg fridge or want more advanced features, the cost can be higher. Regardless of the cost, building a kegerator can be a rewarding project for any beer lover.