How Much Does A Kegerator Weigh

The growing trend of home brewing, craft beer, and at-home draft systems has made kegerators an increasingly popular addition to home bars, kitchens, and even commercial spaces.

A kegerator—essentially a draft beer dispensing unit—offers the luxury of having cold, fresh beer on tap without the need for bottles or cans. For beer enthusiasts, a kegerator eliminates the hassle of opening bottles and pouring from cans, and instead, it offers an uninterrupted flow of beer that’s stored at the perfect temperature.

But, when considering the purchase of a kegerator, it’s essential to keep a few practical factors in mind, one of which is weight. Understanding the weight of a kegerator is crucial not only for its transportation and installation but also for determining if it fits into your space and meets your functional needs. Whether you’re bringing one into your home or installing a larger unit in a commercial space, the weight of the kegerator will affect mobility, setup, and long-term usage.

This article will delve into the factors that determine the weight of a kegerator, why it matters, and how it impacts your purchasing decision. We’ll also break down the weight of different kegerator models to help you better understand what to expect, especially when considering the specific needs of your space and usage.

What Is a Kegerator & How Does It Work?

A kegerator is a type of refrigerator specifically designed to store kegs of beer (or other beverages like cider, wine, or kombucha) and dispense them using a draft system. These units combine refrigeration with pressurized dispensing, providing an easy, efficient way to enjoy beverages directly from the keg.

Here’s a breakdown of the basic components of a kegerator:

Keg Compartment: This is where the keg is stored and chilled. The compartment keeps the beer at the right temperature to ensure it’s ready for serving.
CO₂ Tank: The CO₂ tank provides the necessary pressure to push the beer from the keg through the dispensing lines and into the glass.
Draft Tower and Faucets: The draft tower houses the faucet(s) through which the beverage is dispensed. Depending on the unit, this can be a single or multiple faucets for dispensing.
Cooling System: The cooling system keeps the beer in the keg cold, ensuring a smooth pour every time. Some kegerators feature more advanced cooling systems, including dual-zone temperature control to keep different kegs at optimal temperatures.

These components work together to store, chill, and dispense beer (or other beverages) effectively. However, the size of the kegerator, the number of taps it supports, and the complexity of its cooling system will all influence its weight.

How Much Does A Kegerator Weigh?

The weight of a kegerator is influenced by various factors, including its size, design, and features. Below, we break down the weight ranges for different types of kegerators:

Single-Tap Residential Kegerators: These are the most common kegerators for home use, offering a compact design to store one keg. They typically weigh 90 to 120 lbs (41 to 54 kg). Due to their size and simpler design, these units are relatively lightweight compared to commercial-grade models.
Dual-Tap Residential Kegerators: Slightly larger than their single-tap counterparts, dual-tap kegerators can accommodate two kegs and dispense from two faucets. These models typically weigh between 100 to 150 lbs (45 to 68 kg). The added weight comes from the second keg compartment, additional draft tower, and more complex internal plumbing.
Commercial Kegerators: These are designed to handle higher demands, often found in bars, restaurants, or larger home setups. Commercial kegerators are built to accommodate more kegs, have multiple taps, and offer more advanced features. They typically weigh between 150 to 300 lbs (68 to 136 kg), with the exact weight depending on the model’s size, the number of taps, and additional components like CO₂ tanks and cooling systems.
Mini Kegerators: These are compact, portable kegerators, ideal for small spaces or for those who want a more affordable option. Mini kegerators typically weigh between 25 to 45 lbs (11 to 20 kg). Despite their light weight, they’re still capable of serving beer directly from a small keg.

It’s important to note that these are general weight ranges. The exact weight of a kegerator will vary depending on its design, the materials used, and the number of features incorporated into the unit.

Comparison Table: Kegerator Weight vs. Other Appliances

To provide a clearer idea of how kegerators compare in weight to other household appliances, here’s a comparison table:

Appliance	Weight (lbs)	Weight (kg)
Kegerator (Single Tap)	90 – 120	41 – 54
Kegerator (Dual Tap)	100 – 150	45 – 68
Commercial Kegerator	150 – 300	68 – 136
Refrigerator (Standard)	150 – 250	68 – 113
Washing Machine	150 – 200	68 – 91
Microwave	30 – 70	14 – 32

From this table, you can see that kegerators, especially the larger commercial models, are similar in weight to appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. Their weight can significantly impact installation, mobility, and space planning, so it’s important to understand these dimensions when deciding on a model.

Basics of Kegerator Weight

Several factors determine how much a kegerator weighs. Here are the key aspects to consider:

Size & Capacity: Larger kegerators, which can accommodate multiple kegs, naturally weigh more. A commercial unit with multiple taps will weigh significantly more than a compact, single-tap home kegerator.
Materials Used: Kegerators made from stainless steel are generally heavier than those with plastic or composite materials. The exterior and interior materials contribute directly to the unit’s weight. Stainless steel models tend to be more durable and heavier, while plastic or more lightweight materials help keep the weight down.
Cooling System: Advanced cooling systems, including dual-zone temperature control or better insulation, typically add weight to the unit. Units with sophisticated refrigeration or those designed to maintain multiple temperatures for different kegs are built with more components, making them heavier.
Number of Taps: Kegerators with more taps require extra components, such as additional draft towers, faucets, and more complex internal plumbing. These components increase the overall weight of the kegerator.

Things That Impact/Influence a Kegerator’s Weight

The weight of a kegerator is affected by several specific factors that go beyond just size and materials:

Frame & Construction: A high-quality frame and durable construction materials, such as stainless steel, contribute significantly to the weight. Conversely, cheaper builds with lighter materials may reduce the weight, but they could also affect the kegerator’s long-term durability and efficiency.
Cooling Technology: Advanced cooling features like dual cooling zones or energy-efficient systems add to the kegerator’s weight. The technology used to maintain the optimal temperature for beverages directly influences the overall mass of the unit.
CO₂ Tank Capacity: The size of the CO₂ tank also plays a role. Larger CO₂ tanks, particularly in commercial kegerators, add weight as they allow for longer use between refills. The tank’s weight is typically significant in commercial models where long-term storage and dispensing are necessary.
Insulation: Better insulation increases the kegerator’s weight. Thicker insulation is often used in commercial kegerators, making them heavier, but it also improves energy efficiency by maintaining a constant internal temperature for longer periods.

Why a Kegerator’s Weight Matters

Understanding the weight of a kegerator is essential for several reasons:

Installation: Heavier kegerators may require additional support or reinforcement during installation. Some commercial units may need professional installation due to their bulk, while residential models are easier to handle.
Mobility: Lighter kegerators are easier to move around. If you’re a home user and plan to store your kegerator in different locations or move it occasionally, a lighter model will be more convenient. Commercial models, on the other hand, are often bulky and require a permanent installation due to their weight.
Durability: Heavier kegerators made with materials like stainless steel tend to be more durable and last longer. These units are built to withstand heavy use, especially in commercial environments, and can endure the wear and tear that comes with regular dispensing.
Capacity & Functionality: The weight of the kegerator often reflects its storage capacity, number of taps, and advanced features. Commercial kegerators are designed for high-demand environments and thus weigh more due to the extra features, such as multiple taps, larger CO₂ tanks, and better insulation.

Other Considerations Related to Kegerator Weight

While weight is an important factor, here are a few additional considerations when choosing a kegerator:

Floor Support: Ensure that the area where the kegerator will be placed can support its weight, especially in the case of larger, commercial models. Some floors may need additional support if the unit is particularly heavy.
Shipping and Delivery: Heavier kegerators will incur higher shipping costs and may require specialized delivery services, especially for commercial models. Make sure you are aware of shipping implications before purchasing.
Space Considerations: The weight of the kegerator will also affect its fit in your space. Larger models may need a dedicated area with proper ventilation and clearance around the unit. Always measure the space before purchasing to avoid potential issues with fitting the kegerator.

How Much Does a Kegerator Cost?

Kegerator prices vary widely depending on size, materials, and functionality. Here are typical price ranges for different models:

Single-Tap Residential Models: Prices generally range from $400 to $800.
Dual-Tap Residential Models: Expect to pay between $600 and $1,200.
Commercial Models: High-capacity units can range from $1,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on size, features, and brand.

The weight and features of the kegerator often influence its price. Models with stainless steel exteriors, advanced cooling systems, and multiple taps typically cost more.

Dimensions of a Kegerator

The size of a kegerator will impact both its weight and how well it fits into your space. Here are the typical dimensions for different types of kegerators:

Mini Kegerators: These units are typically 33–35 inches tall, 18–24 inches wide, and 20–25 inches deep.
Single-Tap Residential Kegerators: These generally measure 33–35 inches tall, 20–25 inches wide, and 20–30 inches deep.
Commercial Kegerators: These larger units measure 35–60 inches tall, 24–30 inches wide, and 25–30 inches deep.

Make sure to consider the space where you plan to install your kegerator and ensure that the dimensions will fit comfortably within your space.

Conclusion

Understanding the weight of a kegerator is essential when making a purchasing decision. A heavier kegerator may provide added durability, larger storage capacity, and more features, but it also requires more space and may be harder to move. Weighing the benefits of weight, size, and functionality will help you choose the perfect kegerator for your needs—whether for personal enjoyment at home or in a commercial setting.

Fun Facts About Kegerator Weight

A single-tap kegerator typically weighs less than a standard refrigerator.
The heaviest commercial kegerators can weigh as much as a full-sized washing machine.
Kegerators with multiple taps can weigh 50-100 lbs more than single-tap models.
The CO₂ tank is a significant contributor to the weight of commercial kegerators.
Heavy-duty kegerators often feature better insulation, making them more energy-efficient and longer-lasting.