How to Convert a Refrigerator to Accommodate a Beer Keg

You can use your refrigerator as a beer dispenser.

Instead of throwing that old refrigerator away, give it an extra life by turning it into a container for a beer keg. Old refrigerators make great beer keg taps (known as a "kegerator") by keeping the beer inside perfectly chilled. Although the procedure might sound difficult, many manufacturers offer refrigerator conversion kits. These kits contain everything you need to turn that old eyesore in your garage into a beer dispensing dream.

Things You'll Need

• Rags
• Disinfectant
• Power drill
• Drill bit
• Refrigerator beer keg kit (shanks, beer tap, keg tap)

Instructions

1. Clean out the refrigerator. Wipe down the insides and remove any shelving.

2. Measure the dimensions of the inside of the refrigerator to make sure that the keg you wish to use will fit. You will need at least five inches on top of the keg to accommodate a standing tap. Otherwise, you will have to use a sideways tap.

3. Drill a hole through the front of the refrigerator to fit the shank for the tap. The size of the hole will depend on the size of the shank and tap kit you've purchased. Carefully drill the hole in the door with a power drill and drill bit.

4. Slide the front of the shank through the refrigerator door. Tighten the other end of the shank through the door.

5. Drill a hole in the side of the refrigerator for the CO2 connection. Use a power drill and drill bit to make a clean hole.

6. Connect a shank opening in the side of the refrigerator for the CO2 tank. Tighten the shank halves together.

7. Connect a tap and pipe kit to the shank in the refrigerator door. In most kits, the shaft of the tap will slide through the shank and tighten on the inside of the refrigerator door.

Tips & Warnings

• In larger refrigerators, you may be able to store the CO2 tank inside the refrigerator, along with the keg. In that case, you don't have to drill a hole in the side of the refrigerator for the CO2 connection.

• Spade bits can make wider holes than standard drill bits, but use them carefully, as they can damage the refrigerator if they slip.

References

• Kegbooty.co: How to Build a Kegerator
• Micromatic: Kegerator Door Kit
• College Kegerator: Kegerator Kit