As an expert sommelier and brewer, I understand the importance of having the right equipment to store and serve your favorite beverages. When it comes to kegs, finding a refrigerator that can accommodate them is crucial. Let's dive into the details of what size refrigerator can fit a keg.
First and foremost, it's important to note that kegs come in different sizes. The most common size is the full-sized keg, also known as a half-barrel keg, which holds approximately 15.5 gallons or 165 12-ounce servings of beer. This is the size we'll focus on for this discussion.
To ensure that a full-sized keg will fit inside a refrigerator, you need to consider both the diameter of the keg and the interior cavity dimensions of the fridge. A full-sized keg typically has a diameter of 16 1/8 inches. Therefore, you'll need a refrigerator with an interior cavity that can accommodate this diameter.
In addition to the keg itself, you'll also need to make room for the CO2 canister, which is an essential component for dispensing beer. The CO2 canister is usually located inside the refrigerator, taking up additional space. To comfortably fit a keg and the CO2 canister, you'll need an interior cavity that measures at least 28 inches in width and 18 inches in depth.
Now, let's talk about the refrigerator size needed to meet these requirements. The most common type of refrigerator used for keg storage is a mini-fridge or a compact refrigerator. These smaller refrigerators are often used for home bar setups or small-scale commercial operations. They offer a space-saving solution while still providing the necessary capacity for a keg.
When shopping for a refrigerator to accommodate a keg, keep in mind that the external dimensions listed by manufacturers may not always reflect the interior cavity dimensions accurately. It's always a good idea to have a measuring tape handy when you go to check out a fridge to ensure it will meet your needs.
In terms of specific refrigerator models, there are many options available on the market that can accommodate a keg. Some manufacturers even offer dedicated kegerator units, which are essentially refrigerators designed specifically for keg storage and dispensing. These units often come with built-in tap systems and temperature controls, making them convenient for homebrewers or beer enthusiasts.
In my personal experience, I have found that a compact refrigerator with a capacity of around 4.4 to 5.6 cubic feet can typically accommodate a full-sized keg. However, it's essential to double-check the interior dimensions to ensure a proper fit.
To summarize, when looking for a refrigerator to fit a keg, you'll need to consider the diameter of the keg, typically around 16 1/8 inches, and ensure that the interior cavity dimensions of the fridge are at least 28 inches by 18 inches. Mini-fridges or compact refrigerators are often suitable for this purpose, but it's crucial to double-check the measurements and consider dedicated kegerator units if you want additional features and convenience.
Remember, finding the right refrigerator size is essential to properly store and enjoy your kegged beverages. Cheers!