How to Buy an Outdoor Kegerator | Kegerator Buying Guide
If you are a beer enthusiast who prefers having your favorite drink fresh, chilled, and straight out of the tap, consider getting the best Kegerator you can find. And, when you prefer sipping your draft beer outdoors as you catch up with friends, an outdoor kegerator is a must-have. So, how do you decide on the Kegerator style and outdoor beverage refrigerator that will suit your needs? Read on.
Indoor Kegerator vs. Outdoor Kegerator
Let’s kickstart this kegerator buying guide by pointing out the differences between an indoor and an outside kegerator combo below:
Indoor Kegerator
Indoor kegerators are excellent for pubs, bars, and caterers planning indoor events.
- Suitable for indoor temperatures ranging from 50 - 85 degrees.
- Versatile styles to blend into varying house designs.
- Choose between a freestanding unit or built-in a countertop.
- They are durable and can withstand harsh handling at any indoor event.
Outdoor Kegerator
As the name suggests, outdoor kegerators target outdoor keg beer storage and serving.
- Suitable for indoor temperatures ranging from 50 - 85 degrees.
- Versatile styles to blend into varying house designs.
- Choose between a freestanding unit or built-in a countertop.
- They are durable and can withstand harsh handling at any indoor event.
Which Kegerator Size Best Suits You?
Selecting a kegerator size revolves around the various types of kegs on sale. Most brewers pack and sell their keg in half barrels, quarter barrels, or one-sixth barrels. Each barrel targets a specific kegerator as detailed below:
Half Barrel Kegerator
- Capacity: 15.5 Gallons
- 12oz Bottles/Cans 165
Quarter Barrel Kegerator
- Capacity: 7.75 Gallons
- 12oz Bottles/Cans 82
Sixth Barrel Kegerator
- Capacity: 5.16 Gallons
- 12oz Bottles/Cans 55
What Kegerator Configuration Do You Need?
Built-In Beer Dispenser
Built-in beer dispensers are draft beer systems that integrate into standard height cabinetry. That way, these under-counter kegerators have very thoughtful designs to fit into a deck or patio, pool house, or even outside the kitchen.
Freestanding Beer Dispenser
A freestanding beer dispenser features the standard ventilation system installed at its back. That way, you can set up the kegerator on an island or as a standalone unit for ease of heat and air escape. Also, most of these units have convenient accessories.
Which Outdoor Kegerator Class is Right for You?
Standard Outdoor Kegerator
Standard outdoor kitchen kegerators are perfect if you are on a strict budget, have limited space, or need extra beer storage to complement your current unit.
Premium Outdoor Kegerator
If you have a little more money to spare and want a kegerator that provides longevity, then try out the premium outdoor kegerators they might be perfect for you.
Luxury Outdoor Kegerator
Luxury outdoor kegerators give you the best of both worlds when it comes to style and functionality, built with commercial grade materials they will last a lifetime.
Things to Think About When Buying a Kegerator
DIY Tap Kits for Beer Kegerator
Finally, as you decide on your ideal kegerator, consider whether you want to increase or adjust its tap system using DIY tap kits. These kits help you build a custom tap tower or convert your regular freezer or refrigerator into a DIY beer draft system. Ideally, you want a kegerator with a serving tower to fit most tap kits.
How Long Will Beer Last in a Keg?
That all depends on the type of beer you plan on storing and whether it is pasteurized. Typically, domestic unpasteurized kegs will last six to eight weeks when preserved under ideal temperatures and pressure. In contrast, pasteurized beers and other imported kegs have a longer validity of 12 weeks.
| Pale Lager & Light Ales | 41 Degrees |
| Pale Lager & Light Beer | 34 Degrees to #8 Degrees |
| Standard Ale, Cider, Dark & Amber Lager | 46 Degrees |
| High Alcohol Content or Malty Styled Beers | 50 Degrees to 55 Degrees |
