The best refrigerator for kegerator conversion provides reliable, consistent temperature control essential for homebrew enthusiasts. Finding the right model ensures your beer stays perfectly chilled and ready to tap. However, not all refrigerators are created equal when it comes to this unique application.
Factors like interior dimensions, cooling efficiency, and even door seal quality can significantly impact your kegerator’s performance and your overall satisfaction. A poor choice might lead to temperature fluctuations, wasted space, or ultimately, a less-than-ideal drinking experience.
To help you make an informed decision and avoid common pitfalls, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 refrigerators ideal for your next kegerator project, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck and a flawless pour every time.
The EdgeStar BR1000SS Refrigerator for Kegerator Conversion is a highly-rated option for a best refrigerator for kegerator conversion , featuring a 32-46°F temperature range, internal circulation fan, and digital thermostat for precise control.
Best Refrigerator for Kegerator Conversion, at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | EdgeStar BR1000SS Refrigerator for Kegerator Conversion Best for: Compact spaces | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | EdgeStar BR3002 24 Inch Wide Kegerator Conversion Refrigerator for Full Best for: Full-size capacity | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | BACOENG Double Faucet Door Mount Kegerator Refrigerator Conversion Kit No Best for: Tap upgrades | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | EdgeStar BR7001SSOD Full Size Built-In Outdoor Kegerator Conversion Refrigerator Only Best for: Outdoor use | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Kegco K309B-2 Double Faucet Digital Black Kegerator Best for: Digital control | Check Price |
How We Picked
For the best refrigerator for kegerator conversion, we prioritized robust build quality and real-world performance. We rigorously evaluated features like temperature stability, circulation fans, and thermostat accuracy, considering units like the EdgeStar BR1000SS and BR3002. Durability was assessed by examining component materials and construction, ruling out models that seemed less substantial.
Safety was paramount, with CSA listings being a key factor. Standout features such as integrated tap kits (Kegco K309B-2) and dual-gauge regulators (BACOENG) also influenced our selections, ensuring a comprehensive and reliable conversion experience.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Internal Circulation Fan for Consistent Cold
When converting a refrigerator to a kegerator, internal circulation is key. Look for models with a built-in fan, like the EdgeStar BR1000SS, to ensure consistent temperatures throughout the unit. This prevents warm spots and keeps your beer perfectly chilled from top to bottom.
Without good air movement, the temperature sensor might only read one area accurately, leaving your keg inconsistently cooled, which is a real pitfall for a home beer dispenser.
Tap Compatibility and Draft System Fit
The primary ‘gotcha’ for kegerator conversions is ensuring your chosen refrigerator can actually accommodate a draft system. This means checking internal height and width against your specific keg size (e.g., a full-size 15.5-gallon keg vs. a smaller pony keg) and the clearance needed for taps and lines.
Some units, like the Frigidaire EFRB200, are explicitly designed for this, while others require careful measurement to avoid a costly mistake with your conversion project.
1. EdgeStar BR1000SS Refrigerator for Kegerator Conversion
Best for: Compact single keg setup.
This 3.2 cu. ft. refrigerator employs a compressor cooling method and 115-volt input for consistent temperature down to 32°F, enabling reliable keg chilling.
Its compact, freezerless configuration features manual defrost and a single door with a reversible orientation for flexible placement. The internal circulation fan ensures even temperatures, supported by a drip tray and electronic lock system, measuring 33.46″ H x 20.98″ W x 22.44″ D.
Pros
- 3.2 cu. ft. capacity fits one sixth barrel or Cornelius keg
- Internal circulation fan for even cooling
- Digital thermostat for precise temperature setting
- CSA listed for electrical safety
Cons
- Not compatible with casters, limiting mobility.
Ideal for beverage enthusiasts seeking a dedicated, compact space for a single keg conversion. This unit offers essential features for maintaining optimal beer temperature.
2. EdgeStar BR3002 24 Inch Wide Kegerator Conversion Refrigerator for Full
Best for: Versatile keg size and quick chilling.
This 24-inch wide, 2-door refrigerator offers flexible temperature control with a range of 32-50°F, perfect for maintaining ideal freshness for various keg sizes.
Featuring a rotary scroll compressor and automatic defrost, this unit prioritizes efficiency and ease of use. Its wire shelves provide ample space, and the reversible door orientation adds to its adaptable design, measuring 33.8″ H x 23.6″ W x 24.5″ D.
Pros
- Deep Chill Mode for rapid cooling
- Accommodates half-barrel and slim kegs
- Dual shelves for organization
- Automatic defrost system
Cons
- Key lock system is functional but basic compared to electronic versions.
Suitable for home brewers and beer aficionados who need adaptable storage for multiple keg types. The Deep Chill feature is a significant advantage for immediate enjoyment.
3. BACOENG Double Faucet Door Mount Kegerator Refrigerator Conversion Kit No
Best for: Complete dual-tap conversion kit.
This conversion kit includes a dual-gauge regulator with a weight of 3 pounds and rubber protective covers, allowing you to monitor both internal and external CO2 tank pressure for uninterrupted dispensing.
The kit features a shutoff valve with a built-in spring to prevent beer backflow and a pressure relief valve that releases at 45 PSI. Its lever handle design is engineered for ease of use and secure operation.
Pros
- Dual gauge regulator for precise control
- Pressure relief valve at 45 PSI
- Shutoff valve prevents beer backflow
- Protective rubber covers for gauges
Cons
- Parts are for conversion and do not include refrigerator unit itself.
For DIY enthusiasts looking to build a dual-tap kegerator from an existing refrigerator unit. This kit provides essential control components for optimal beer dispensing.
4. EdgeStar BR7001SSOD Full Size Built-In Outdoor Kegerator Conversion Refrigerator Only
Best for: Outdoor-ready built-in design.
Designed for built-in outdoor use, this frost-free refrigerator uses forced-air refrigeration technology and digital temperature control for precise, even cooling throughout its tower form factor.
The unit includes a stainless steel top cover, surface mount drip tray, guard rail, and casters for immediate kegerator conversion. Its interior is illuminated by soft LED lighting that generates no heat, ensuring temperature stability.
Pros
- Suitable for outdoor built-in installations
- Includes stainless steel accessories
- Forced-air refrigeration for even temps
- Heat-free LED interior lighting
Cons
- Electronic lock type may require an external key if power is lost.
Perfect for those constructing an outdoor bar space who need a robust, weather-resistant refrigerator for kegerator conversion. The included accessories simplify the setup process.
5. Kegco K309B-2 Double Faucet Digital Black Kegerator
Best for: All-in-one commercial-style dispenser.
This freestanding, black kegerator features a complete tapping kit, including a 5 lb aluminum CO2 tank and a chrome-plated metal two-faucet draft tower, allowing for immediate dispensing.
With a rotary scroll compressor and wire shelves, this unit offers adjustable temperature control within its multi-section configuration. The inclusion of four wheels enhances its portability for versatile placement.
Pros
- Complete tapping kit included
- Double faucet design
- Four wheels for easy movement
- Digital temperature control
Cons
- Compressor type is rotary scroll, which is functional but less silent than some newer models.
Ideal for individuals or small businesses wanting a self-contained, commercial-style beer dispenser with minimal setup required. It simplifies the process of serving draft beer.
6. Kegco Deluxe 1-Tap Door Mount Kegerator Conversion Kit with 5
Best for: Premium commercial-grade tap accessories.
This kegerator conversion kit includes an elegantly designed NSF-approved chrome beer faucet with a brass lever and a commercial-grade double-gauge regulator with a T-style adjustment valve for precise output pressure.
The kit features a D system keg coupler for easy tapping of North American kegs and a 6-inch stainless steel wall-mount drip tray to collect spills. Its components are built for durability and ease of cleaning.
Pros
- NSF-approved chrome beer faucet
- Commercial-grade double gauge regulator
- D system keg coupler included
- Detachable 6″ stainless steel drip tray
Cons
- Kit components shipped separately may arrive at different times.
For serious home brewers who already have a suitable refrigerator and require high-quality, commercial-grade tapping components. This kit ensures reliable and precise beer dispensing.
7. Frigidaire EFRB200 6.1 Cu Ft Stainless Steel Kegerator Beer Bar
Best for: Large capacity, home bar ready.
This 6.1 cu. ft. stainless steel refrigerator is designed as a modern beer kegerator, capable of seamlessly hooking up a 15.5-gallon full-size beer keg or a 7.75-gallon pony keg.
Its compact, upright form factor makes it versatile for personal or professional settings, functioning as a beer tower tap or a standalone fridge. The compressor cooling method ensures consistent chilling.
Pros
- Spacious 6.1 cu. ft. capacity
- Accommodates full-size and pony kegs
- Versatile beer tower tap functionality
- Compressor cooling for consistent temps
Cons
- Tapping kit components are sold separately, requiring additional purchase for full functionality.
Perfect for those establishing a dedicated home bar who need ample space for larger kegs and appreciate a sleek stainless steel finish. This unit serves as both a refrigerator and a draft beer dispenser.
8. Kegco BF STCK-5T Standard Tower Kegerator Conversion Kit with 5
Best for: Professional series dual gauge system.
This kegerator conversion kit features a PRO SERIES DUAL GAUGE REGULATOR with a plated brass body, allowing easy measurement of PSI and CO2 volume, and adjustment of CO2 output pressure.
The regulator’s top gauge shows output pressure, while the side gauge indicates remaining CO2 in the tank for uninterrupted parties. This NSF-approved kit includes a lever handle keg coupler for efficient tapping.
Pros
- Pro Series dual gauge regulator
- Manual pressure release valve
- Lever handle keg coupler
- Plated brass body for durability
Cons
- Item weight is 19 pounds, indicating robust construction but potential for difficulty in moving without assistance.
Ideal for experienced homebrewers or commercial users who demand precise control over their CO2 levels and a reliable tapping mechanism. This kit offers professional-grade components.
9. GANCOWISE Single Tap Kegerator Door Mount Conversion Kit with Dual
Best for: Self-closing faucet and dual gauges.
This door mount conversion kit includes a CGA-320 keg regulator compatible with standard CO2 tanks, featuring dual pressure gauges with black rubber protectors for clear monitoring and damage prevention.
The self-closing beer faucet, equipped with a spring, prevents unexpected drips and beer loss, unlike traditional mini keg faucets. Its lightweight design at 5.73 pounds makes installation manageable.
Pros
- Self-closing beer faucet with spring
- Dual pressure gauges for monitoring
- Protective rubber covers on gauges
- CGA-320 compatible regulator
Cons
- Designed for door mounting, requiring a compatible refrigerator door for installation.
Suitable for homebrewers looking to upgrade their existing setup with a reliable dual-gauge regulator and an efficient, drip-reducing beer faucet. This kit enhances dispensing control and cleanliness.
10. VEVOR Beer Kegerator, Dual Tap Commercial Draft Beer Dispenser for
Best for: Commercial dual-tap draft beer dispenser.
This 40-gallon capacity commercial draft beer dispenser utilizes auto-defrosting and an extended 9.8 ft long beer hose to maintain freshness and optimal foam for superior taste.
The unit includes an external bracket for the CO₂ tank, maximizing internal space, and comes with two shelves for added organization. Its 115-volt operation ensures compatibility with standard power outlets.
Pros
- 40-gallon spacious capacity
- Auto-defrosting design
- External CO₂ tank bracket
- Includes two shelves
Cons
- Heavier unit at 102.6 pounds, indicating a substantial build but requiring careful placement.
Perfect for venues or entertainers needing a high-capacity, dual-tap commercial draft beer dispenser for consistent, high-volume service. The auto-defrost feature ensures peak performance with minimal intervention.
Kegerator Temperature Stability Trumps Extra Taps
For a true kegerator conversion, prioritizing a refrigerator’s cold retention and temperature consistency over the number of taps is paramount. The EdgeStar BR7001SSOD Full Size Built-In Outdoor Kegerator Conversion Refrigerator Only, with its forced-air system, exemplifies this by ensuring even chilling, a critical factor for maintaining optimal beer head and flavor. In contrast, models that rely solely on passive cooling, like some door-mount units where space is at a premium, can struggle to maintain a stable 32-46°F range, especially under load.
The internal circulation fan present in some units, such as the EdgeStar BR1000SS Refrigerator for Kegerator Conversion, directly addresses this. This feature actively combats temperature stratification, ensuring that the entire internal volume, from top to bottom, remains within the desired cold zone. Without this, even a refrigerator with a digital thermostat like the BACOENG Double Faucet Door Mount Kegerator Refrigerator Conversion Kit No or the GANCOWISE Single Tap Kegerator Door Mount Conversion Kit with Dual, can exhibit warmer spots, leading to foamy pours and diminished beer quality.
While the Kegco K309B-2 Double Faucet Digital Black Kegerator and VEVOR Beer Kegerator, Dual Tap Commercial Draft Beer Dispenser for, offer dual-tap configurations, their effectiveness hinges on the underlying refrigeration unit’s ability to keep pace. A robust cooling system is the foundation upon which any successful kegerator operation is built. The Frigidaire EFRB200 6.1 Cu Ft Stainless Steel Kegerator Beer Bar, while offering a respectable 6.1 cu.
ft. capacity suitable for a full-size keg, still benefits immensely from an integrated circulation fan for consistent performance.
Ultimately, when selecting a best refrigerator for kegerator conversion, focus on the refrigerator’s core cooling capabilities. The presence of an internal circulation fan, a precise digital thermostat, and a reliable temperature range are non-negotiable. For those seeking to build the most reliable home tap, the EdgeStar BR3002 24 Inch Wide Kegerator Conversion Refrigerator for Full provides a strong balance of form factor and essential cooling features.
What to Look For in a Refrigerator for Kegerator Conversion
Interior space and configuration
When converting a refrigerator into a kegerator, prioritize sufficient interior space. Look for a minimum of 30-32 inches of clear height from the bottom of the unit to the highest point of the ceiling, ensuring clearance for most standard kegs once placed on a drip tray or shelving. For accommodating multiple kegs or larger sixth barrels, aim for a width of at least 24-28 inches and a depth of 20-24 inches.
Adjustable shelves are crucial for positioning kegs precisely over the drip line and maximizing vertical space. If your chosen model has a freezer compartment, confirm it’s convertible to refrigerator mode or offers ample space to be repurposed, as dedicated freezer space is unnecessary for keg storage.
Choose models with ample, easily adjustable shelves for the best fit.
Temperature control and stability
Achieving and maintaining precise temperature control is paramount for perfectly poured beer. Seek out refrigerators offering a temperature range that reliably goes down to 35-38°F (1.7-3.3°C). Fan-assisted cooling systems are superior, actively circulating cold air to eliminate warm spots and ensure uniform temperature throughout the unit, preventing any one keg from freezing or warming unevenly.
A reliable compressor that cycles efficiently without drastic temperature swings delivers consistent cold. While all refrigerators defrost, models with well-managed defrost cycles minimize excessive moisture buildup, which can affect can condensation and overall beer quality.
Opt for a fan-cooled model with precise, low-end temperature settings.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you want to build your dream home bar and need a versatile base unit, choose a full-size refrigerator with dedicated outdoor conversion features that often include a stainless steel top and guard rail.
- If you’re prioritizing ease of use and a complete setup right out of the box, choose a kit that includes a digital thermostat, drip tray, and a full tapping kit with a regulator.
- If you have limited space or are looking for a discreet integration into existing cabinetry, choose a compact, door-mount conversion kit that allows you to tap directly from the refrigerator door.
- If you plan on serving multiple types of beer or larger kegs, choose a refrigerator with flexible temperature control and ample storage capacity for a full-size keg, and consider one with a dual-tap setup.
Quick Best Refrigerator For Kegerator Conversion Buying Checklist
- Interior Height: Ensure enough clearance for your kegs, including the coupler and faucet.
- Adjustable Shelving: Look for shelves you can easily remove or reposition to maximize space.
- Robust Construction: Choose a unit built for durability, as it will house heavy kegs.
- Consistent Temperature: Prioritize models known for stable, reliable cooling to protect your beer.
- Reversible Door: This can be crucial for fitting the refrigerator into your specific bar or kitchen layout.
- Energy Efficiency: While not directly impacting performance, it affects long-term operating costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Ideal Interior Height For A Refrigerator Used As A Kegerator?
The ideal interior height for a refrigerator converted to a kegerator is around 30-32 inches. This height ensures enough clearance for most standard kegs along with the coupler and faucet assembly, preventing them from hitting the top of the unit.
Can A Freezer Compartment Be Repurposed For A Kegerator Conversion?
Yes, many freezers can be effectively repurposed for kegerator conversions if they can maintain a consistent refrigerator temperature, typically between 35-40°F. Ensure the unit has adequate space and can hold that temperature reliably after modification.
How Important Is Temperature Stability When Using A Refrigerator For A Kegerator?
Temperature stability is crucial for preserving beer quality and flavor, making it a top priority for any kegerator conversion. Significant temperature fluctuations can lead to off-flavors or carbonation issues, diminishing the taste of your beverages.
Which Type Of Refrigerator Is Best Suited For Kegerator Conversion Based On General Characteristics?
Compact or medium-sized refrigerators, often referred to as ‘beer fridges’, are generally best suited for kegerator conversion due to their manageable size and typically all-refrigerator configuration. These models often offer the right balance of internal space and temperature control.
Are There Any Specific Material Considerations For A Refrigerator Intended For Kegerator Use?
While most modern refrigerators use durable metal or plastic interiors, focus on the structural integrity of shelves and the overall build. A sturdy interior can better support the weight of full kegs and withstand the rigors of frequent use.
Final Words
Choosing the best refrigerator for kegerator conversion unlocks the convenience of draft beer at home, offering significant value and enjoyment. These specialized refrigerators provide the ideal controlled environment for your brews, ensuring consistent quality and taste. Start your DIY draft system today and elevate your home beverage experience with a reliable kegerator conversion.
