Whether you’ve just set up the man cave you’ve been dreaming of or you want to outfit your state-of-the-art kitchen with the latest supplies, you probably want some type of bar area. Purchasing a few bottles of your favorite liquor and setting up a set of martini glasses won’t cut it, though. If you’re searching for the ultimate in bar supplies, you definitely want to install a kegerator in your home or on your patio.
“Is it a keg? Or is it a refrigerator?”
It’s both. The word “kegerator” is a combination of the words “keg” and “refrigerator.” Why? Because kegerators dispense cold draught beer. The keg itself is kept in a refrigerated container so that it stays chilled (because who wants lukewarm beer, after all). One of the best perks of having a kegerator is that you can keep the beer for a long period of time without it going bad.
“But…I haven’t pumped a keg since college!”
It’s just like riding a bike. Also, you can find a kegerator that has a pressurized CO2 tank. Simply attach the system to a faucet or tap for easy pumping and pouring. Still need to tap the keg? Follow these directions:
- Assuming that you have the American “D” system coupler on your keg, you’ll want to make sure that the coupler handle is upright in the “off” position.
- Align the coupler lugs with the keg valve openings.
- Insert the coupler and turn it 90 degrees clockwise until it settles into position.
- Turn the handle to the “on” position by pressing it down. This lets carbon dioxide flow into the keg, which in turn will push the beer out of the keg.
Keep in mind that there will be different methods depending on the coupler that your keg has.
“So I just walk into a store and ask for any ol’ kegerator?”
Not exactly. When it comes to kegerators, you have four basic options:
- Mini kegerator – A mini kegerator can neatly sit on top of your counter and it holds a miniature keg of five liters of beer.
- Full-size kegerator – A full size kegerator can hold a half barrel keg that sits in a freestanding fridge. You can also purchase a full size kegerator to fit under your counter.
- Outdoor kegerator – An outdoor kegerator can work in temperatures ranging from 45 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. These kegerators are perfect for keeping beer the right temperature in extra hot or extremely cold conditions. If you have an outdoor entertaining area, invest in a kegerator designed for the elements.
- Commercial kegerator – Commercial kegerators are used for high quality beer dispensing, such as at a bar or restaurant. Unless you live in a mansion, you can skip this one.
“Wait…why do I need a kegerator again?”
Well, you love beer, right? All of your friends who come over love beer? Now you don’t have to hand them a skunked brew that’s been sitting in the bottom of your refrigerator for three summers. Plus, it’s pretty cool to have your own beer tap.
Nick Simpson is Social Media Coordinator at Blindsgalore, a leading provider of window shades with different colors and elegant wood blinds.
