5 Best Refrigerators for Kegerator Conversion [In 2025]

Have you ever dreamed of having draft beer on tap in your own home? If you’re a beer enthusiast or homebrewer, converting a refrigerator into a kegerator might be the perfect project for you. A well-designed kegerator allows you to enjoy perfectly chilled draft beer whenever you want, without the hassle of bottling or the disappointment of flat beer from growlers.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the top five refrigerators specifically designed for kegerator conversion. Whether you’re looking to serve multiple craft brews at once or just need a compact solution for your home bar, these options will help you create the perfect draft beer experience at home.

EdgeStar BR3002BL: The Ultimate Multi-Keg Solution

If you’re serious about having multiple beers on tap simultaneously, the EdgeStar BR3002BL stands out as an exceptional choice. This spacious black refrigerator is designed with the beer enthusiast in mind, offering impressive capacity and thoughtful features.

Key Features and Specifications

• Dimensions: 25.25″D x 23.81″W x 35.25″H
• Capacity: 5.6 Cubic Feet
• Temperature Range: 32°F to 50°F
• Keg Capacity: Can hold various configurations including one full-size half-barrel keg, up to three sixth barrel kegs, or three Cornelius kegs
• Special Feature: Deep Chill Mode for rapid cooling of newly installed kegs
• Installation Type: Freestanding
• Color: Black
• Voltage: 120 Volts

The EdgeStar BR3002BL comes with several useful accessories including a guard rail to prevent items from falling off the top, four mobility casters for easy movement, a surface mount drip tray to catch spills, and two wire shelves if you want to use it as a standard refrigerator when not using it as a kegerator.

Pros of the EdgeStar BR3002BL

1. Superior Capacity: The ability to hold up to three sixth barrel kegs or three Cornelius kegs makes this an ideal choice for homebrewers or craft beer enthusiasts who want variety on tap.
2. Flexible Temperature Control: The intuitive control panel allows for precise temperature adjustments, ensuring your beer remains at the perfect serving temperature.
3. Deep Chill Mode: This feature rapidly cools down new kegs, perfect for situations where you need to quickly replace an empty keg before a gathering.
4. Convertibility: The included wire shelves allow you to easily convert back to a standard refrigerator when needed.
5. Knockout for CO₂ Tank: The rear knockout allows for optional external storage of the CO₂ tank, freeing up valuable interior space for additional kegs.
6. Quiet Operation: Multiple users report that this unit runs quietly, making it suitable for home bars without creating distracting noise.

Cons of the EdgeStar BR3002BL

1. Caster Installation Issues: Several users have reported problems with the included casters, noting that they either don’t fit properly or have incorrect thread sizes. However, the unit does have built-in rollers at the rear that can help with mobility even without the casters.
2. Tight Fit for Some Keg Types: While it can technically hold three kegs, users with pin-lock Cornelius kegs report that fitting them requires some maneuvering, and they might slightly protrude but still allow the door to close.
3. Large Footprint: At nearly 24 inches wide and 25 inches deep, this unit requires significant floor space, which might be challenging for smaller homes or apartments.

EdgeStar BR2001SS: Stainless Steel Elegance with Ultra-Low Temperature Capabilities

For those who appreciate a more premium aesthetic while still maintaining excellent functionality, the EdgeStar BR2001SS offers a sleek stainless steel finish combined with ultra-low temperature capabilities.

Key Features and Specifications

• Dimensions: 20″D x 26.5″W x 35″H
• Capacity: Suitable for full-sized half shell Sankey standard keg
• Temperature Range: Low 30s to 45°F
• Special Feature: Ultra-low temperature capability
• Installation Type: Freestanding
• Color: Stainless Steel
• Voltage: 115 Volts
• Additional Features: Casters for mobility, reversible door, protective floor plate, wire rack shelving

This model comes with the ability to be converted back to a standard refrigerator using the included tower hole cap, offering great flexibility.

Pros of the EdgeStar BR2001SS

1. Premium Appearance: The stainless steel finish gives this unit a high-end look that complements modern kitchen and home bar designs.
2. Ultra-Low Temperature Capability: The ability to reach temperatures in the low 30s ensures your beer is always served at the perfect chilled temperature.
3. Versatile Keg Capacity: Can hold two 1/6 barrel kegs or a single 1/2 barrel keg, providing options based on your preferences.
4. Ready for Conversion: Features pre-cut holes for CO₂ lines and the tower, making the conversion process straightforward.
5. Reversible Door: This feature allows for flexible placement based on your space configuration.
6. Excellent Customer Support: Users report positive experiences with customer service when they had questions about installation.

Cons of the EdgeStar BR2001SS

1. Keg Compatibility Limitations: Does not support the use of Coors, Miller rubberized, or other oversized kegs, which might limit options for some beer preferences.
2. Freestanding Only: Unlike some other models, this unit is designed for freestanding use only and cannot be built into cabinetry.
3. Tower Installation Challenges: Some users report needing to purchase specific screws (10-32 1″ machine head screws) for tower installation, as the included hardware might not always be compatible with all tower kits.

EdgeStar BR2001BL: Budget-Friendly Black Finish Option

The EdgeStar BR2001BL offers essentially the same functionality as its stainless steel counterpart but with a black finish that may better match some home decor styles while typically coming in at a slightly lower price point.

Key Features and Specifications

• Dimensions: 26″D x 20″W x 33″H
• Capacity: 4.9 Cubic Feet
• Temperature Range: Low 30s to Mid 40s°F
• Special Feature: Digital Temperature Control
• Installation Type: Freestanding
• Color: Black
• Defrost System: Frost Free
• Voltage: 115 Volts
• Refrigerant: R-600A

This model includes several helpful features such as casters for mobility, a protective floor plate for durability, and a reversible door for flexible placement options.

Pros of the EdgeStar BR2001BL

1. Excellent Temperature Control: Users report consistent cooling with the ability to maintain temperatures as low as 34°F, perfect for serving beer at ideal temperatures.
2. Quiet Operation: Multiple reviewers praise the unit’s quiet operation, with only occasional soft sounds when the compressor engages.
3. Versatile Keg Capacity: Can accommodate one full-size keg (not oversized), a pony keg, a slim quarter, or two sixth barrel kegs. For homebrewers, it comfortably fits two Cornelius kegs.
4. Pre-drilled Holes: The unit comes ready for conversion with pre-drilled holes for tower installation and a gas line.
5. Energy Efficient: Users report no noticeable increase in electricity bills despite continuous operation.
6. Multipurpose Use: Some homebrewers have successfully used this model as a fermentation chamber when connected to an external temperature controller.

Cons of the EdgeStar BR2001BL

1. Gas Line Opening Challenges: Some users report that the pre-drilled hole for the gas line is slightly too narrow if your gas line is already attached to a fitting, potentially requiring modifications.
2. Tower Installation Alignment: The pre-drilled holes for tower installation might not align perfectly with all tower types, potentially requiring adaptations such as a collar.
3. Keg Restrictions: Like the stainless steel version, this model does not support Coors, Miller rubberized, or other oversized kegs.
4. Shelf Limitations with Corny Kegs: When using Cornelius kegs, the included shelving cannot be used due to height constraints.

EdgeStar BR1500SS: Compact Built-In Solution for Limited Spaces

If you’re working with limited space or want a kegerator that can be integrated into your existing cabinetry, the EdgeStar BR1500SS offers a compact built-in solution without sacrificing quality.

Key Features and Specifications

• Dimensions: 15.5″D x 14.88″W x 34″H
• Capacity: 3.35 Cubic Feet
• Temperature Range: 32-60°F
• Special Feature: Compact design, front ventilation, forced air refrigeration
• Installation Type: Built-in or Freestanding
• Color: Stainless Steel with Black Cabinet
• Voltage: 115 Volts
• Additional Features: Interior LED lighting, safety lock, reversible door, four casters included

This model comes with a stainless steel guardrail and surface-mount drip tray. Its reinforced stainless steel floor provides durability, while the stainless steel towel bar handle adds to its premium appearance.

Pros of the EdgeStar BR1500SS

1. Space-Efficient Design: At under 15 inches wide, this unit can fit into spaces where larger kegerators simply wouldn’t work.
2. Installation Flexibility: Can be used as either a built-in unit integrated with cabinetry or as a freestanding kegerator.
3. Premium Features: Despite its compact size, it doesn’t skimp on features like interior LED lighting, a safety lock, and a stainless steel finish.
4. Front Ventilation: This design feature allows the unit to be built into cabinetry without concerns about overheating.
5. Perfect for Small-Scale Needs: Ideal for those who prefer to serve one keg at a time and change varieties frequently.

Cons of the EdgeStar BR1500SS

1. Limited Capacity: Can only hold one slim quarter, one 1/6 sixth barrel, or one Cornelius keg, which might be restrictive for those wanting multiple beers on tap.
2. Premium Price: The built-in capability and premium features come at a higher price point compared to similar-sized freestanding units.
3. Delivery Limitations: Curbside delivery only, with no inside delivery option, which might be challenging for some buyers to manage without assistance.
4. Requires Phone Number for Delivery: A valid phone number is specifically required for delivery purposes, which some might consider a privacy concern.

EdgeStar BR1000SS: Mini Kegerator for Single-Keg Enthusiasts

For those with minimal space requirements or who simply prefer to enjoy one beer variety at a time, the EdgeStar BR1000SS offers the smallest footprint in our lineup while still providing excellent cooling performance.

Key Features and Specifications

• Dimensions: 20.1″D x 17.5″W x 32.7″H
• Capacity: 3.2 Cubic Feet
• Temperature Range: 32-46°F
• Special Feature: Compact, Digital Temperature Control, Internal circulation fan
• Installation Type: Freestanding
• Color: Stainless Steel
• Defrost System: Manual
• Voltage: 115 Volts
• Additional Features: Digital thermostat, drip tray included, integrated lock system, recessed door handle

This model is the same refrigerator unit included with the KC1000SS EdgeStar Craft Brew Kegerator, making it a trusted choice for kegerator conversion projects.

Pros of the EdgeStar BR1000SS

1. Precision Temperature Control: The digital thermostat allows for accurate temperature settings, crucial for serving beer at its ideal temperature.
2. Space-Saving Design: The compact dimensions make this suitable for apartments, small home bars, or tight spaces where larger units wouldn’t fit.
3. Internal Circulation Fan: This feature helps ensure even cooling throughout the unit, preventing warm spots that could affect beer quality.
4. Versatile Use Cases: Beyond kegerator conversion, users have successfully repurposed this unit as a fermentation chamber for homebrewing, demonstrating its versatility.
5. Attractive Appearance: The stainless steel finish gives this small unit a premium look that complements most home decor styles.
6. Security Feature: The integrated lock system helps prevent unauthorized access, which could be useful in households with children.

Cons of the EdgeStar BR1000SS

1. Very Limited Capacity: Can only accommodate one sixth barrel keg or one Cornelius keg, severely limiting options for those who might want variety.
2. No Caster Compatibility: Unlike larger models, this unit does not work with casters, potentially making repositioning more difficult.
3. Manual Defrost System: Requires periodic manual defrosting, adding to maintenance requirements compared to frost-free models.
4. Limited Real-world Feedback: Has fewer user reviews compared to other models, making it harder to assess long-term reliability.

What Makes a Good Refrigerator for Kegerator Conversion?

Before diving into specific models, let’s understand what features make a refrigerator ideal for kegerator conversion. Not all refrigerators are created equal when it comes to this specialized purpose.

Temperature Control Requirements

The perfect serving temperature for beer typically ranges between 36-40°F, depending on the style. A good kegerator refrigerator needs to maintain consistent temperatures in this range. Ideally, you want a unit with precision temperature control that can reach temperatures as low as the mid-30s without freezing your beer.

Additionally, some premium models offer “deep chill” features that help rapidly cool down newly installed kegs to serving temperature. This can be particularly useful if you’re frequently changing out kegs or hosting parties where you need to get a keg chilled quickly.

Size and Space Considerations

When selecting a refrigerator for kegerator conversion, you need to carefully consider both external dimensions (will it fit in your designated space?) and internal capacity (what size and how many kegs can it hold?).

Common keg sizes include:

• Full-size (half-barrel) keg: 15.5 gallons
• Slim quarter keg: 7.75 gallons
• Sixth barrel keg: 5.16 gallons
• Cornelius (Corny) keg: 5 gallons (popular with homebrewers)

Your ideal refrigerator should accommodate your preferred keg type with enough room for the CO₂ tank and draft components, unless you plan to mount the CO₂ tank externally.

Installation and Mobility Features

A good kegerator refrigerator should make the conversion process as painless as possible. Look for models with:

• Pre-drilled holes or knockouts for tower installation
• Reinforced tops to support the weight of the tower and draft equipment
• Mobility casters for easy repositioning
• Accommodations for CO₂ tank placement (either internal or external)
• Reversible doors for flexible placement

Now that we understand what makes an ideal refrigerator for kegerator conversion, let’s explore the top five options available on the market today.

How to Choose the Right Refrigerator for Your Kegerator Conversion

With five excellent options to choose from, how do you determine which refrigerator is best suited for your kegerator conversion project? Let’s explore some key considerations to help guide your decision.

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Assessing Your Space Requirements

Before making a purchase, carefully measure the space where you plan to place your kegerator. Consider not only the dimensions of the refrigerator itself but also additional clearance needed for ventilation, door opening, and accessing the tap.

If space is extremely limited, the compact EdgeStar BR1000SS or built-in BR1500SS might be your best options. For those with more generous space, the larger BR3002BL offers maximum flexibility with its multi-keg capacity.

Don’t forget to consider ceiling height as well, especially if you’ll be adding a tower. A standard draft tower adds 12-15 inches of height above the refrigerator.

Considering Your Drinking Habits and Keg Preferences

Your beer consumption patterns and preferences should significantly influence your choice:

• Do you prefer variety? The EdgeStar BR3002BL with its three-keg capacity might be ideal.
• Do you mainly drink one type of beer at a time? A single-keg unit like the BR1000SS could be sufficient.
• Are you a homebrewer? Consider models that accommodate Cornelius kegs, such as the BR2001BL.
• Do you frequently host large gatherings? A unit that can hold a full-size half-barrel keg might be necessary.

Also consider the types of kegs you’ll typically use. Remember that some models, like the BR2001SS and BR2001BL, don’t support oversized kegs like Coors and Miller rubberized kegs.

Budget Considerations

Kegerator conversion involves not just the cost of the refrigerator but also additional components like:

• Draft tower and faucets
• CO₂ tank and regulator
• Beer lines and connections
• Drip tray and other accessories

When budgeting, factor in these additional costs. Sometimes spending more on a refrigerator that comes with some of these components pre-installed (like a drip tray or reinforced tower mounting area) can save money and frustration in the long run.

DIY Kegerator Conversion: Step-by-Step Process

Once you’ve selected the perfect refrigerator, the conversion process begins. While each model has its specific requirements, here’s a general overview of the process.

Essential Components for Conversion

Beyond the refrigerator itself, you’ll need:

1. Draft Tower and Faucet(s): This is what dispenses the beer. Single, double, or triple faucet towers are available depending on how many kegs you want to serve simultaneously.
2. CO₂ Tank and Regulator: The CO₂ provides pressure to push the beer from the keg through the lines and out the faucet. A regulator allows you to control this pressure precisely.
3. Beer Lines: Food-grade tubing that connects the keg to the faucet.
4. Keg Coupler: The device that taps into the keg, allowing beer to flow out while CO₂ flows in.
5. Drip Tray: Catches drips and spills from the faucet, keeping your setup clean.
6. Temperature Controller (optional): For more precise temperature control, especially important for homebrewers.

Installation Tips from Expert Homebrewers

Based on feedback from actual users of these refrigerators, here are some valuable insights for your conversion project:

Tower Installation Challenges and Solutions

One common issue mentioned by users is aligning the draft tower with pre-drilled holes in the refrigerator. For the EdgeStar BR2001BL, one user created a collar that fit the pre-drilled holes, then installed their tower on top of it.

For the EdgeStar BR2001SS, users recommend using 10-32 1″ machine head screws for tower installation, as these match perfectly with the pre-threaded holes.

Always let your refrigerator sit upright for 24 hours after positioning it, especially if you had to lay it on its side to install casters. This allows the coolant to settle properly.

CO₂ Tank Placement Options

The EdgeStar BR3002BL features a knockout in the rear for optional external CO₂ tank storage, which frees up valuable interior space. However, some users of the BR2001BL reported challenges with the gas line opening being slightly too narrow if the gas line is already attached to a fitting.

Consider your preference for internal versus external CO₂ tank placement. External placement frees up interior space but requires drilling through the refrigerator wall if not pre-configured. Internal placement is simpler but reduces keg capacity.

Maintaining Your Converted Kegerator

Proper maintenance ensures your kegerator continues to function optimally and your beer tastes fresh for years to come.

Cleaning and Sanitizing Procedures

Regular cleaning of your beer lines is essential to prevent off-flavors and bacterial growth:

1. Clean beer lines every 2-3 weeks or between keg changes, whichever comes first.
2. Use dedicated beer line cleaning solutions rather than household cleaners.
3. Disassemble and clean faucets monthly to prevent buildup and bacterial growth.
4. Wipe down the interior of the refrigerator regularly to prevent mold growth.
5. Clean drip trays daily to prevent odors and pest attraction.

Temperature Monitoring and Adjustment

Temperature control is crucial for beer quality:

1. Use a reliable thermometer to verify the internal temperature periodically.
2. Different beer styles have different ideal serving temperatures – adjust accordingly.
3. Seasonal ambient temperature changes may require adjusting your refrigerator settings.
4. Allow at least 24 hours after making temperature adjustments before fine-tuning further.
5. Keep the refrigerator away from heat sources and direct sunlight to help maintain consistent temperatures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any refrigerator for a kegerator conversion?

While technically many refrigerators can be converted, purpose-built units like the EdgeStar models have significant advantages including appropriate temperature ranges, reinforced tops for tower installation, and proper space configurations for kegs. Standard kitchen refrigerators often have freezer compartments and cooling elements that interfere with keg placement.

How long does beer stay fresh in a kegerator?

Properly stored in a kegerator maintaining temperatures between 36-40°F, a tapped keg will generally stay fresh for 30-60 days for non-pasteurized beer and 90-120 days for pasteurized beer. Homebrews typically have shorter freshness periods of 20-30 days due to lack of preservatives.

Do I need special knowledge or tools to convert a refrigerator to a kegerator?

Basic DIY skills and tools are sufficient for most conversions, especially with models designed for this purpose. You’ll need a drill with hole saw attachment (if holes aren’t pre-drilled), adjustable wrench, screwdriver set, and possibly a jigsaw. Many online tutorials and community forums can provide step-by-step guidance.

How much does it cost to convert a refrigerator into a kegerator?

Beyond the cost of the refrigerator itself (typically $400-$700 for the models reviewed), expect to spend an additional $150-$300 for a basic draft system including tower, CO₂ tank, regulator, and lines. Premium components can push this additional cost to $500+.

Can I convert my kegerator back to a regular refrigerator later?

Yes, all the models reviewed here can be converted back to standard refrigerators. Models like the EdgeStar BR3002BL and BR2001SS even include tower hole caps specifically for this purpose. This flexibility is particularly valuable if your needs change over time or if you move to a location where a kegerator isn’t practical.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Home Brewing Experience

Converting a refrigerator into a kegerator is one of the most rewarding projects for beer enthusiasts. It not only provides the luxury of fresh draft beer at home but also allows you to showcase your homebrewing creations or favorite commercial beers in their optimal condition.

The five EdgeStar models we’ve examined each offer unique advantages:

• The BR3002BL excels in capacity and versatility
• The BR2001SS combines elegant appearance with excellent performance
• The BR2001BL offers great value with robust features
• The BR1500SS provides a built-in option for integrated installations
• The BR1000SS delivers compact efficiency for limited spaces

Whichever model you choose, the key to success lies in proper installation, regular maintenance, and an appreciation for the perfect pour. Your converted kegerator will quickly become the centerpiece of your home entertaining space, providing endless enjoyment for you and your guests.