The first beer brewing equipment kit you buy will not come with a kegerator. For many new to beer brewing, bottling will be the method of storing their beer. However, at some point you may decide to start kegging your beer. Many home brewers graduate to this at some point in their beer brewing experience. It is a level of advancement in beer brewing, and you just can’t call yourself a beer brewing snob if you don’t have a kegerator.

What advantages does a kegerator offer? One advantage is that you always have cold beer ready whenever you want. It can be easier for dispensing beer, especially when you are entertaining. A kegerator not only keeps your beer cold, but it also carbonates it as well. There are three basic types of kegerators.

There are under the counter units, which are just as they sound–designed to be added or built into a cabinet or counter. There are also stand alone units, which offer convenience and mobility. There are also outdoor units, perfect for the backyard. These units are made for the outdoors, and are extra rugged. Kegerators can be made of stainless steel to protect them from the elements. These outdoor units are perfect for backyard entertaining and cookouts.

As an alternative to spending money on a new kegerator, you can instead look at sites like craigslist or ebay for used kegerators. You can also check local restaurant supply stores, or you could build your own. This is yet another DIY project that exists in beer brewing. Simply take an old fridge and get a conversion kit. These kits will turn your fridge into a kegerator and allow you to always have delicious home brew on tap.

A little effort really pays off. Your old fridge is now a home beer system. This project isn’t too difficult, you can customize it to your tastes, and you now have a multi function fridge. There are several options, and they will depend on your budget and your circumstances. But, these make for great additions and improve your beer brewing experience.

Here are some important tips if you are looking at getting a kegerator. Over time, you can save money with a kegerator. Instead of having to buy bottles, just use your kegerator to store beer. Plus, the kegerator will save you storage space. They typical half keg that home brewers use can hold up to 15 gallons of beer, which is the equivalent of 6 cases of beer. If you are hosting a party, it is much easier to distribute beer with a kegerator. You don’t have to go get another case of beer every so often, and you don’t have to worry about making room in the fridge, or putting the beer into a cooler.

Plus, kegs can be easily portable. Additionally, all your home beer will be kept cold, so it is ready whenever you are. No need for coolers, or space in the fridge. If you have a kegerator, you can still bottle beer if you choose. After all, you will still have some bottles around, and this way, you have options. Once you decide to go with kegs instead of bottles, it is important that you become familiar with your system. It is important to properly clean, sanitize, and maintain your system, so that your kegerator will faithfully serve you for years to come.

Some may look at the expense of a kegerator and decide it is too much. If you are new to beer brewing, then you will likely start off bottling your beer. There are more important things to worry about in the beginning, like figuring out if beer brewing is a hobby that you will continue to pursue, and mastering the basic beer brewing process.

But, if you do enjoy beer brewing, then this extra expense may be a wise investment that is worth it to you.