It is absolutely possible to turn a regular full-size refrigerator into a kegerator. In fact, many homebrewers and beer enthusiasts choose to do so to have a convenient and dedicated space for dispensing their kegged beer.
One of the first steps in converting a refrigerator into a kegerator is to determine the location of the taps. There are two common options for mounting the taps: on the side of the fridge or straight through the door. Each has its own advantages and considerations.
Mounting the taps on the side of the fridge allows for easy access and visibility of the taps. This is especially useful if you plan on having multiple kegs and want to have different beers on tap at the same time. Additionally, side-mounted taps can be a great option if you have limited space in your home or if you are converting a smaller refrigerator into a kegerator.
On the other hand, mounting the taps straight through the door is a popular choice for many people. This allows for a cleaner look and maintains the functionality of the refrigerator door. You can still use the refrigerator as normal when you don't have any kegs to dispense. However, it's important to note that drilling through the door may require some additional effort and skill to ensure a proper seal and prevent any potential damage to the fridge.
Once you have decided on the location of the taps, the next step is to install the necessary components for dispensing beer. This typically includes a CO2 tank, a regulator, beer lines, and faucets. The CO2 tank is used to carbonate the beer and provide pressure for dispensing. The regulator allows you to control the pressure and carbonation levels. Beer lines connect the keg to the faucets, and the faucets are where you pour your beer from.
It's important to ensure that all the components are properly installed and connected to avoid any leaks or issues with dispensing. It's also recommended to clean and sanitize all the components before use to maintain the quality and taste of your beer.
In terms of using the refrigerator as a normal fridge when you don't have any kegs to dispense, it's as simple as not using the taps and keeping the fridge at the desired temperature. You can still store food and beverages in the refrigerator, just like you would with any regular fridge. This versatility is one of the reasons why converting a fridge into a kegerator is a popular choice among homebrewers and beer enthusiasts.
Turning a full-size refrigerator into a kegerator is definitely possible and can be a fun and rewarding project for beer lovers. Whether you choose to mount the taps on the side or through the door, the end result is a dedicated space for dispensing your favorite kegged beers. Just make sure to properly install and connect all the necessary components, and you'll be enjoying fresh, cold beer on tap in no time.