If you’re a beer enthusiast, you know how important it is to have a kegerator at home. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorite beer on tap without having to go to a bar or restaurant. But what if you don’t have enough space for a full-sized kegerator? That’s where mini fridges for kegerator conversion come in handy. In this article, we’ll be discussing the 7 best mini fridges for a kegerator conversion.
When it comes to choosing a mini fridge for kegerator conversion, there are a few things to consider. First, you need to make sure the mini fridge is big enough to fit your keg. Second, you need to make sure it has enough room for the CO2 tank. Finally, you need to make sure it’s easy to convert into a kegerator. The mini fridges on this list meet all of these criteria and more.
Whether you’re a homebrewer or just looking for a way to enjoy your favorite beer on tap at home, these mini fridges are perfect for kegerator conversion. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 7 best mini fridges for a kegerator conversion.
Understanding Kegerator Conversion
If you’re a home brewer or just someone who loves draft beer, you might be interested in converting your mini fridge into a kegerator. This process involves installing a conversion kit that allows you to tap a keg of beer inside your fridge. In this section, we’ll cover the basics of kegerator conversion and what you need to know to get started.
Top 7 Mini Fridges for Kegerator Conversion
If you’re looking for the best mini fridge for a kegerator conversion, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top 7 mini fridges for conversion.
1. Danby Designer DAR044A4BDD-6
This compact mini fridge is our top pick for its spacious interior, energy efficiency, and sleek design. With a capacity of 4.4 cubic feet, it’s large enough to fit a 5-gallon keg and has a temperature range of 32°F to 50°F. It also features an automatic defrost system and adjustable shelves for easy customization.
2. Magic Chef MCAR320B2 All Refrigerator
This all-refrigerator model from Magic Chef is another great option for kegerator conversion. It has a capacity of 3.2 cubic feet, a reversible door for easy installation, and adjustable shelves for maximum flexibility. It also boasts a temperature range of 32°F to 50°F and an energy-efficient design.
3. RCA RFR321-FR320/8 IGLOO Mini Refrigerator
This mini fridge from RCA is a popular choice for kegerator conversion due to its affordable price and compact size. It has a capacity of 3.2 cubic feet and a temperature range of 32°F to 50°F. It also features adjustable shelves and a reversible door for easy installation.
4. EdgeStar BR2001BL Ultra Low Temp Refrigerator
If you’re looking for a mini fridge with a wider temperature range, the EdgeStar BR2001BL might be the one for you. It has a temperature range of 32°F to 46°F, making it ideal for serving cold beer. It also has a capacity of 2.5 cubic feet and a sleek black finish.
5. RCA RFR321-B-Black-COM
This mini fridge from RCA is another affordable option for kegerator conversion. It has a capacity of 3.2 cubic feet and a temperature range of 32°F to 50°F. It also features adjustable shelves and a reversible door for easy installation.
6. RCA RFR320
This mini fridge from RCA is similar to the RFR321-B-Black-COM but has a slightly smaller capacity of 3.2 cubic feet. It also has a temperature range of 32°F to 50°F and adjustable shelves for customization.
7. NewAir Beverage Cooler and Refrigerator
This mini fridge from NewAir is designed specifically for storing beverages, making it a great choice for kegerator conversion. It has a capacity of 2.2 cubic feet and a temperature range of 34°F to 64°F. It also features adjustable shelves and a reversible door for easy installation.
When choosing the best mini fridge for kegerator conversion, it’s important to consider factors such as capacity, temperature range, energy efficiency, and overall design. By choosing one of the mini fridges on our list, you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality product that will meet all your kegerator needs.
How to Convert a Mini Fridge into a Kegerator
To convert a mini fridge into a kegerator, there are 7 main steps starting with selecting your mini fridge and ending with temperature testing. We’ve broken down each step below.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Mini Fridge
The first step is to choose the right mini fridge for your kegerator conversion. You need to find a mini fridge that is big enough to accommodate the keg you want to use. Most mini fridges can hold a sixth barrel keg, which is 5 gallons of beer. However, if you want to use a larger keg, you need to find a bigger mini fridge.
Step 2: Selecting the Kegerator Conversion Kit
You need a kegerator conversion kit to convert your mini fridge into a kegerator. The conversion kit includes a beer faucet, a regulator, a CO2 tank, a draft tower, and other components. You can find kegerator conversion kits online or at your local homebrew store.
Step 3: Preparing the Mini Fridge
Before installing the kegerator conversion kit, you need to prepare the mini fridge. Remove all the shelves and drawers from the mini fridge to make room for the keg. Clean the inside of the mini fridge with soap and water, and let it dry completely.
Step 4: Installing the Tap Tower
The next step is to install the tap tower. You need to drill a hole in the top of the mini fridge to install the tap tower. Use a metal putty knife to remove the insulation, and then drill a hole using a 1-inch hole saw bit. Install the tap tower by inserting it into the hole and securing it with screws.
Step 5: Connecting the CO2 System
After installing the tap tower, you need to connect the CO2 system. Connect the regulator to the CO2 tank, and then connect the regulator to the keg using a tube. Adjust the pressure on the regulator to ensure the beer flows smoothly.
Step 6: Testing and Adjusting the Temperature
Once you’ve connected the CO2 system, you need to test the kegerator and adjust the temperature. Turn on the mini fridge and set the temperature to the desired level. Let the mini fridge cool for a few hours, and then test the temperature using a thermometer. Adjust the temperature as needed to ensure the beer stays cold.
Step 7: Cleaning and Maintaining Your Kegerator
To keep your kegerator clean and functioning properly, you need to clean it regularly. Clean the beer lines and faucet every two weeks to prevent bacteria buildup. Replace the CO2 tank when it’s empty, and replace the keg when it’s empty or when the beer starts to taste off.
That’s it! With these steps, you can easily convert your mini fridge into a kegerator and enjoy fresh beer on tap at home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, converting a mini fridge into a kegerator can be a fun and cost-effective way to enjoy draft beer at home. When selecting a mini fridge for your kegerator conversion, consider factors such as size, temperature control, and compatibility with conversion kits.
Based on our research, the BLACK+DECKER BCRK32V and the NewAir Beverage Cooler and Refrigerator are both excellent choices for those looking for a mini fridge to convert into a kegerator. They both have ample storage space, adjustable temperature control, and are compatible with conversion kits.
If you’re on a budget, the RCA RFR321-FR320/8 is a great option. It’s small, affordable, and can hold a single sixth keg. For those looking for a larger mini fridge, the Midea 3.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator, WHD-113FSS1 is a great choice.
Remember to also consider the cost of a conversion kit when selecting a mini fridge for your kegerator. Make sure the mini fridge you choose is compatible with the conversion kit you plan to use.
Overall, there are many great options available when it comes to mini fridges for kegerator conversion. With a little research and planning, you can create a customized kegerator that fits your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best mini fridge size for a kegerator conversion?
The best mini fridge size for a kegerator conversion depends on the size of the keg you want to fit in it. A standard keg has a diameter of 16.125 inches and a height of 23.25 inches. To fit a standard keg, you will need a mini fridge with an interior height of at least 28 inches and a width of at least 17 inches. However, if you plan on using a smaller keg, you can get away with a smaller mini fridge. It is important to measure the keg and the interior of the mini fridge before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
Can any mini fridge be converted into a kegerator?
Not every mini fridge can be converted into a kegerator. To convert a mini fridge into a kegerator, it must have a flat top and enough interior space to fit a keg. Additionally, the mini fridge must have a temperature control that can go down to at least 38°F to keep the beer cold. It is also important to consider the location of the mini fridge, as it will need to be close to a power outlet and have enough ventilation to prevent overheating.
What is the average power consumption of a mini fridge used for kegerator conversion?
The average power consumption of a mini fridge used for kegerator conversion depends on the size of the mini fridge and the efficiency of its compressor. On average, a mini fridge used for kegerator conversion will consume between 100 and 250 watts of power per day. However, it is important to note that the power consumption can vary based on the temperature settings and frequency of use. To save on energy costs, it is recommended to choose a mini fridge with an Energy Star rating and to keep the temperature settings as low as possible while still keeping the beer cold.