As a beer lover, having your own kegerator at home can be a dream come true. The thought of enjoying a perfectly poured draft beer or even serving cold brew coffee or kombucha on tap is undoubtedly enticing. However, one question that often arises is whether it is cheaper to build a kegerator from scratch or opt for a ready-made one. Let’s delve into this topic and explore the potential cost savings of building your own kegerator.
The Initial Cost
It’s important to acknowledge that building a kegerator from scratch does require an initial investment. You’ll need to purchase a refrigerator or a freezer, a CO2 tank, a regulator, beverage line, tap handles, and various other components. These costs can add up, especially if you opt for higher-end equipment. However, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits and potential savings.
Long-Term Savings
If you’re a regular consumer of draft beer or other beverages that can be dispensed through a kegerator, the long-term savings can be substantial. One of the key advantages of having a kegerator is the ability to buy kegs instead of individual bottles or cans.
When purchasing beer in kegs, you typically get more bang for your buck. A standard 5-gallon keg can hold approximately 53 12-ounce servings, whereas you would need to buy multiple six-packs or cases to get the same quantity. Over time, this can significantly reduce your expenses, especially if you enjoy hosting gatherings or frequently indulge in a pint or two.
Flexibility and Customization
Building your own kegerator also gives you the freedom to customize your setup as per your preferences. You can choose the specific refrigerator or freezer that suits your needs and budget. Moreover, you have the flexibility to select the number of taps, the type of tap handles, and even customize the design to match your existing home decor.
Not only does this create a unique and personalized experience, but it can also potentially save you money in the long run. Opting for a ready-made kegerator often involves compromises in terms of design and features, whereas a DIY approach allows you to choose exactly what you want without paying for unnecessary extras.
Repairs and Upgrades
Another aspect to consider is the ability to perform repairs and upgrades on your own. With a self-built kegerator, you have the knowledge and skills to troubleshoot and fix minor issues that may arise. This eliminates the need for expensive service calls or replacement of an entire unit.
Additionally, as the technology and features in the world of kegerators continue to evolve, you have the option to upgrade specific components or add new features to your existing setup. This flexibility can save you money in the long run, as you can simply upgrade the parts you need without purchasing a completely new unit.
Conclusion
While there is an initial cost involved in building your own kegerator, the long-term savings and advantages make it a worthwhile investment for beer enthusiasts and fans of other draft beverages. By purchasing kegs instead of individual bottles or cans, you can save money over time, especially if you frequently enjoy draft beer at home or love hosting gatherings.
Moreover, the flexibility to customize your kegerator setup and the ability to perform repairs and upgrades on your own can lead to additional savings and a more tailored experience. So, if you’re looking to enjoy a cold, crisp pint of your favorite brew from the comfort of your own home, building a kegerator may be the way to go.
