How to Build a Kegerator: A Complete DIY Guide

 

Converting a standard refrigerator into a kegerator is an excellent project for homebrewers looking to serve draught beer at home. Whilst there are many approaches to building a kegerator, this guide will walk you through a proven method we use at The Malt Miller. Remember, like many aspects of homebrewing, there’s more than one way to achieve great results.

Required Components

Essential Hardware

• Long tap shanks
• Beer taps (we recommend flow control taps like Nukataps)
• Tap handles
• John Guest fittings (3/8″ to 5/16″ for beer line)
• 3/8″ to 3/16″ line reducers
• 3/8″ stem fittings
• Black liquid-  out disconnects
• Grey gas in disconnects 
• Female to 3/8″ line adapters
• 3/16″ beer line (approximately 3 metres)
• 3/8″ line (approximately 3 metres)
• Black tap collars for finishing

Required Tools

• Electric drill
• 22mm hole saw or step drill bit
• Marking tools (permanent marker)
• Masking tape or electrical tape
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Adjustable spanner or pliers
• Spirit level (optional but recommended)

Selecting Your Refrigerator

When choosing a refrigerator for conversion, consider these crucial factors:

• Door swing direction and clearance
• Internal space for kegs
• Location of internal components (especially the temperature control unit)
• Door construction and potential obstacles
• Overall dimensions for your space

Understanding your refrigerator’s construction is essential before beginning modifications. Pay special attention to:

• Door seals and their position
• Internal shelving brackets
• Cooling lines (avoid these when drilling)
• Temperature control placement
• Any internal door panels or structural elements

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Planning and Marking

1. Measure down from the top of the door (approximately 11cm) to clear any internal structures
2. Find the door’s centre point by measuring the total width and dividing by two
3. Mark tap locations on either side of centre (approximately 13cm from centre)
4. Use masking tape to protect the surface and provide clear marking lines
5. Double-check all measurements before drilling

2. Drilling Process

1. Start with pilot holes at your marked locations
2. Switch to the 22mm hole saw or step bit
3. Drill through the outer skin first
4. Remove metal shavings carefully (they will be hot)
5. Continue drilling through the insulation
6. Complete the hole from the inside out to prevent damage to the inner door panel

3. Installing Tap Shanks

1. Place the black collar on the shank before installation
2. Insert the tap shank through the hole from outside
3. Add the backing washer on the inside
4. Tighten the brass nut securely
5. Double-check alignment before final tightening

4. Beer Line Assembly

1. Connect the 3/16″ beer line to the tap shank using the provided fitting
2. Install line reducers where needed
3. Use John Guest push-fit connections for easy assembly
4. Route lines carefully to avoid kinks
5. Leave enough slack for door movement

5. Gas Line Installation

1. Route gas line through the refrigerator’s drain hole (if available)
2. Install appropriate reducers and fittings
3. Consider installing a gas line splitter for multiple kegs
4. Secure all connections with appropriate clamps or push-fit fittings

6. Final Assembly

1. Install taps onto shanks
2. Attach tap handles
3. Test all connections for proper fit
4. Check door operation and clearance
5. Verify all fittings are secure

Tips for Success

• Always measure twice and drill once
• Keep your drill perpendicular to the door surface when drilling
• Clean up metal shavings immediately to prevent rust or snagging on beer lines
• Test the door seal after installation
• Consider using flow control taps for better pour control
• Leave enough slack in lines for door movement
• Keep spare O-rings and washers on hand

Customisation Options

Your kegerator can be personalised in several ways:

• Custom tap handles
• Different tap styles (standard, flow control, stout, etc.)
• Multiple tap configurations
• Digital temperature controllers
• Tower mounted taps (as an alternative to door mounting)
• Drip trays and other accessories

Maintenance Considerations

To keep your kegerator performing optimally:

• Clean beer lines regularly using appropriate cleaning solutions
• Check and maintain door seals
• Monitor temperature consistency
• Inspect gas lines and connections periodically
• Keep spare parts on hand for quick repairs

Safety Notes

• Always verify the location of cooling lines before drilling
• Use appropriate eye protection when drilling
• Handle sharp metal edges carefully
• Ensure proper ventilation around the unit
• Test gas connections for leaks using soapy water

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Foamy Beer

• Check line length and diameter
• Verify serving temperature
• Inspect for kinks in beer lines
• Confirm proper CO2 pressure

Temperature Control

• Monitor actual versus set temperature
• Check door seal integrity
• Ensure proper ventilation
• Consider adding a temperature controller

For more information about draught beer serving and maintenance, check our guides on kegging your homebrew and controlling fermentation temperature. Our help centre also offers additional resources for maintaining your draught system.