Your Ultimate Guide: Where to Buy a Kegerator Near Me
Are you dreaming of perfectly chilled draft beer at home, but unsure where to buy a kegerator near me? The quest for the ideal kegerator can feel overwhelming, with countless models, features, and retailers vying for your attention. This comprehensive guide cuts through the noise, providing you with the knowledge and resources to confidently choose the perfect kegerator and a reliable local source. We will explore the essential features, top brands, and key considerations to ensure you get the best value and enjoy years of refreshing pours. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just starting your draft beer journey, this guide will empower you to find the perfect kegerator solution.
Understanding the Kegerator Landscape
Before diving into where to buy a kegerator near me, it’s crucial to understand what a kegerator is and the factors that influence your purchase decision. A kegerator, essentially, is a refrigerator specifically designed to store and dispense beer from a keg. However, it’s much more than just a fridge; it’s a complete draft beer system that requires careful consideration of several components.
What is a Kegerator?
At its core, a kegerator is a modified refrigerator that maintains a consistent, cold temperature (typically between 34°F and 42°F) to preserve the quality and carbonation of the beer. It includes a CO2 tank and regulator to pressurize the keg, a coupler to connect the CO2 to the keg, a beer line to transport the beer, and a tap to dispense it. The components are carefully integrated to ensure a smooth, consistent pour, free from excessive foam and off-flavors. Beyond these basics, kegerators can vary significantly in size, features, and price.
Key Considerations When Buying a Kegerator
- Size and Capacity: Kegerators come in various sizes, typically accommodating full-size (15.5-gallon), pony (7.75-gallon), or sixth-barrel (5-gallon) kegs. Consider your consumption habits and available space when choosing the right size.
- Temperature Control: Precise and consistent temperature control is essential for preserving beer quality. Look for models with digital temperature displays and adjustable thermostats.
- CO2 System: The CO2 tank and regulator are crucial for maintaining proper carbonation. Ensure the system is reliable and easy to adjust.
- Build Quality and Materials: Sturdy construction and durable materials are important for long-term reliability. Stainless steel components are preferred for their corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.
- Features and Accessories: Some kegerators come with additional features, such as digital displays, adjustable shelves, drip trays, and locking casters. Consider which features are most important to you.
Where to Find Kegerators Near You: Exploring Your Options
Now that you understand what a kegerator is and what to look for, let’s explore the best places where to buy a kegerator near me. Your options typically include big-box retailers, appliance stores, homebrew supply shops, and online retailers. Each option offers its own advantages and disadvantages.
Big-Box Retailers
Large retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Best Buy often carry a selection of kegerators, typically from popular brands like EdgeStar and Kegco. These stores offer the convenience of local pickup and in-person viewing, allowing you to assess the size and build quality before making a purchase. However, the selection may be limited compared to specialized retailers, and the staff may not have extensive knowledge about kegerators.
Appliance Stores
Appliance stores, such as Sears, offer a wider selection of kegerators and often carry higher-end models with advanced features. The staff is generally more knowledgeable about appliances and can provide expert advice on choosing the right kegerator for your needs. However, prices may be higher compared to big-box retailers or online stores.
Homebrew Supply Shops
If you’re a serious beer enthusiast or homebrewer, a homebrew supply shop is an excellent place to find a kegerator. These stores typically carry a wide selection of kegerators, kegging equipment, and accessories, and the staff is highly knowledgeable about all aspects of draft beer systems. They can provide expert advice on choosing the right components and setting up your kegerator for optimal performance. You are also likely to find components and advice on how to convert a refrigerator into a kegerator, should you wish to go that route.
Online Retailers
Online retailers like Amazon, Beverage Factory, and Kegworks offer the broadest selection of kegerators, with models from various brands and price points. Online shopping provides the convenience of comparing prices and features from the comfort of your home. However, you won’t be able to see the kegerator in person before buying it, and you’ll need to factor in shipping costs and delivery time.
In-Depth Look at the Kegco Kegerator Series
To illustrate the features and benefits of a quality kegerator, let’s take a closer look at the Kegco series. Kegco is a well-regarded brand known for its reliable performance and innovative features. Their kegerators are popular among both casual beer drinkers and seasoned enthusiasts.
Kegco Kegerator: A Blend of Performance and Convenience
Kegco kegerators are designed to provide a consistent, cold temperature and a smooth, effortless pour. They feature digital temperature controls, allowing you to precisely adjust the temperature to suit your preferred beer style. The CO2 system is reliable and easy to adjust, ensuring proper carbonation and minimizing foam. The interior is spacious and can accommodate various keg sizes, while the exterior is sleek and durable.
Key Features of Kegco Kegerators
Kegco kegerators boast a range of features that enhance performance, convenience, and user experience.
Digital Temperature Control
Precise temperature control is essential for preserving beer quality, and Kegco kegerators deliver with their digital temperature displays and adjustable thermostats. You can set the temperature to your preferred level, ensuring your beer stays cold and refreshing. This also prevents the beer from freezing, which can ruin the taste and carbonation.
Forced Air Refrigeration
Kegco’s forced air refrigeration system circulates cold air throughout the kegerator, ensuring consistent temperature from top to bottom. This prevents hot spots and keeps your beer evenly chilled, regardless of where it’s located inside the unit. The forced air system also helps to reduce condensation and maintain a dry interior.
Durable Stainless Steel Components
Kegco kegerators feature stainless steel components, including the draft tower, faucet, and beer lines. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and easy to clean, ensuring long-term reliability and preventing off-flavors. This is especially important for maintaining the purity and taste of your beer.
Spacious Interior with Adjustable Shelves
Kegco kegerators offer a spacious interior that can accommodate various keg sizes, from full-size to sixth-barrel. Adjustable shelves allow you to customize the storage space to suit your needs. You can also remove the shelves to use the kegerator as a regular refrigerator when you’re not serving beer.
Mobility and Convenience
Many Kegco kegerators come with locking casters, making them easy to move and position. This is particularly useful for parties and events where you may want to relocate the kegerator. The locking casters ensure the unit stays securely in place once you’ve found the perfect spot.
The Advantages of Owning a Kegerator
Investing in a kegerator offers numerous advantages, from cost savings to enhanced flavor and convenience.
Cost Savings
While the initial investment in a kegerator may seem significant, it can save you money in the long run, especially if you frequently drink beer. Buying beer in kegs is typically cheaper per ounce than buying it in bottles or cans. Over time, the savings can add up, making a kegerator a worthwhile investment for frequent beer drinkers.
Superior Flavor and Freshness
Beer served from a kegerator tastes fresher and more flavorful than beer from bottles or cans. The keg keeps the beer sealed and protected from light and oxygen, which can degrade its quality. The consistent temperature and proper carbonation also contribute to a smoother, more enjoyable drinking experience. Many users report that their beer tastes better than even what they get at their favorite local pub.
Convenience and Entertainment
A kegerator provides unparalleled convenience for parties and gatherings. You can easily serve your guests a steady stream of cold, refreshing beer without constantly opening bottles or cans. A kegerator also adds a touch of sophistication to your home bar or entertainment area, making it a conversation starter and a focal point for social gatherings.
Reduced Waste
Using a kegerator significantly reduces waste compared to buying beer in bottles or cans. Kegs are reusable and recyclable, and you won’t have to deal with piles of empty containers after a party. This makes a kegerator a more environmentally friendly option for beer consumption.
Variety and Experimentation
With a kegerator, you can enjoy a wide variety of beers without having to commit to a large quantity of any single brand. You can easily switch between different kegs, allowing you to explore new styles and flavors. This is particularly appealing to adventurous beer drinkers who enjoy trying different brews.
Expert Advice for Choosing the Right Kegerator
Choosing the right kegerator can seem daunting, but following these expert tips will help you make an informed decision.
- Consider Your Consumption Habits: How much beer do you typically drink in a week or month? This will help you determine the appropriate keg size and kegerator capacity.
- Assess Your Space: Measure the available space in your home bar or entertainment area to ensure the kegerator will fit comfortably.
- Read Reviews and Compare Models: Research different kegerator models and read online reviews to get a sense of their performance and reliability.
- Check the Warranty: Ensure the kegerator comes with a comprehensive warranty to protect your investment.
- Ask for Expert Advice: Consult with a knowledgeable salesperson at a homebrew supply shop or appliance store for personalized recommendations.
Finding the Perfect Kegerator Solution
In conclusion, finding where to buy a kegerator near me involves careful consideration of your needs, preferences, and budget. By understanding the different types of kegerators, key features, and available retailers, you can confidently choose the perfect model for your home. Whether you opt for a basic unit from a big-box store or a high-end model from a specialized retailer, a kegerator will undoubtedly enhance your beer-drinking experience and provide years of enjoyment. Explore your options, do your research, and get ready to enjoy perfectly chilled draft beer at home. Share your experiences with finding local kegerator retailers in the comments below!
