The age old debate, draft beer vs packaged beer; which is better? While most of the beer I consume comes from cans these days, there’s no denying that there’s something special about draft beer. And the only way to truly get that experience at home is with a kegerator.
Enjoying a draft beer at home isn’t anything new. Beer fans have been pouring beer from a tap at home for about as long as we’ve had the refrigerators. However, the prevalence of craft beer has increased the demand for at-home draft beer.
Check out the Newair Kegerator – Save 10% with code CBJOE10
What Is a Kegerator?
A kegerator is a refrigerator that holds a keg and is equipped to dispense the beer.
Keg + Refrigerator = Kegerator
It can take many different forms, sizes, etc. For example, some may convert an old refrigerator into a kegerator. This is done by drilling a hole through a side for the tap to be installed. Then shelves are removed to fit the keg inside. Making a DIY kegerator can be popular but isn’t the best solution.
Many don’t have a refrigerator to convert and a full size refrigerator is more than needed. And that is why there are units like the Newair Kegerator. Units like this are purpose built meaning they are specifically designed to be a kegerator.
Others will opt for a built-in unit that is installed as part of a remodel or retrofit. The only issue is that these can be quite permanent and require a hole to be made through a countertop or other area of the home bar. While this can be a good option; it requires a higher level of commitment and cost.
While there are different types of kegerators, they all meet the same need of getting draft beer at home.
Should You Buy One?
Why not? Who wouldn’t want access to another great way to enjoy craft beer?
But seriously, there are some great reasons to add one to your home. Here are some of my favorite reasons:
- For the love of draft beer
- For many, draft beer is the best way to consume beer. No longer do you have to leave the comfort of home to get a freshly poured beer.
- Large parties
- Whether it is for a holiday, a sporting event, or just a weekend grill out; there are endless reasons to host a party and having beer on tap is a great way to satisfy a large crowd.
- The perfect addition to your home bar
- Let’s not kid ourselves, having a kegerator is the ultimate bar accessory. Seeing that tap handle will let all your guests know that you are serious about great beer.
- Simplify your drinking
- As a craft beer fan, I am constantly seeking the next great beer. This also means I overthink every beer selection. Having a keg of a favorite beer means I can think less and enjoy more.
Kegerators might not be for everyone but if I had to guess; anyone reading this has wanted to own one at some point. If you are ready to get serious, check out the next section about the Newair Kegerator.
Learn About The Newair 100 Can Beer Fridge
My Experience With The Newair Kegerator
Working with Newair was a perfect situation as their kegerator was so easy to setup and start using. The unit is quite large so having a second person to help move it is a must. I recommend installing the casters to make it easier to move.
Assembling the beer tower and getting the hoses in order went quickly and took less than 1 hour. It is worth noting that you’ll need some tools (screwdriver, adjustable wrench, etc). I’m relatively mechanically inclined so this wasn’t challenging.
The unit is sleek and looks great in my home bar. I’m excited to pick up different tap handles to take it to the next level.
Additionally, the unit comes with the tank for the CO2. You’ll need to find somewhere near you to have it filled. My local homebrew shop, Listermann (also an amazing brewery) is where I had mine filled.
Finally, you’ll need to purchase your first keg. Most retailers will have a deposit on the keg in addition to the cost of the beer. Expect to pay $80 – $150 for a 1/6 barrel of craft beer. Once you have the CO2 tank and the keg; you’re ready for final setup.
Connecting the CO2 tank, regulator, keg, and beer lines was just as straightforward as the rest of the setup. And once I was done, it was a special moment pouring that first beer from the Newair Kegerator.
The unit maintains temperature perfectly and I check the CO2 level occasionally to ensure it is holding the right level. Having draft beer available at all times has become such a fun way to serve friends and family (and of course myself) beer.
Top Reasons To Love The Newair Kegerator
- Stylish – This looks amazing in my home bar
- Easy Setup – Once I secured a keg and filled the CO2 tank, setup was easy
- Quality – Solid construction and consistent performance
- Tap Handle – Use the basic handle included or swap it with any standard tap handle
- CO2 Storage – Store it inside or mount the bracket on the back of the unit
- Wheels – Casters are included if you want to be able to easily move it around
- Storage – There’s room for more than just the keg so you can keep other drinks cold too
- Crowd Pleaser – No denying that my friends and family love it as much as I do
Get Your Own From Newair
Go check out the Newair Kegerator (SKU: NKR058MB00) for yourself here: https://glnk.io/m2pj/craftbeerjoe and if you decide to get one; use the code CBJOE10 to save 10%!
*The Limited Edition Newair Anniversary Series 100 Can Beverage Fridge was provided for the creation of this article. No additional compensation was received.