Keezer Build - Tips and Lessons Learned

dahappycamper · 02-04-2012, 09:09 PM

First, want to thank everyone for the great posts and advice on building a keezer. Just got mine done and wanted to share what I learned along the way. My best work was on the air circulation and collar insulation design, so I'll focus on that the most.

Started with a GE 7.0 cu. ft. Chest Freezer in White Model # FCM7SUWW from Home Depot ($179). This will hold 4 cornys, with ease.

Had a minor ding in it, and final price was $105, delivered. Yup, you get a $75 rebate if it comes damaged. Off to a great start.

dahappycamper · 02-04-2012, 09:15 PM

The first big debate is collar fixed to the base - or fixed to the lid. Given that this is a beer keezer - and I will be sampling home brews as I tinker - went with the collar up - to keep the shanks, etc out of the way and safe.

Makes it a little more involved to build - but not much.

dahappycamper · 02-04-2012, 09:37 PM

I'm planning on having 4 taps, so the kegs will be packed in good. My solution for good air circulation - keeps kegs off the ground, room for airflow, and ability to spread the hot air around. Version 1 of the air circulation system...PVC and wire shelf. No need to glue together, which saved me later. Drilled holes in all pieces, and can rotate to "aim". Final version has the PVC tube from fan in center back.

dahappycamper · 02-04-2012, 09:43 PM

Used a waterproof boat bilge fan - caulked to a PVC reducer. This connects to the PVC pipe platform to circulate air around the base of the kegs.

**ToastedPenguin** · 02-05-2012, 04:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dahappycamper

Used a waterproof boat bilge fan - caulked to a PVC reducer. This connects to the PVC pipe platform to circulate air around the base of the kegs.

Awesome work!

What type of power supply did you use for the bilge fan? Is it constently on or is it controlled by temp?

David

nofriendsbz3 · 02-05-2012, 08:06 AM

Genius.... I have the same exact freezer and same blower.. I just havent figured a way to get the kegs off of the floor and a way to circulate the air... simply Genius!!!

**TomSD** · 02-05-2012, 09:19 AM

I like the circulation solution. Mine is a quick and dirty duct tube down to the bottom and some grating keeping the kegs off the floor. I might have to give yours a shot to clear up some space on the hump.

Great job.

dahappycamper · 02-05-2012, 01:42 PM

Still working on the right power supply. The one I tried first had too low amps, and heated up pretty quick. The fan is 2.6 A, and 12V, but I don't want it on full speed. From what I have read, I need a supply with 2.6 A or more, and variable voltage so I can adjust the speed. Will be looking this week and post what I find. Any advice is appreciated...well, almost any

I plan to have it on all the time to keep a constant temp (no temp layers). This seemed to work well with the power supply I tried first. I think this would also reduce the frequency of the compressor going on.

dahappycamper · 02-05-2012, 01:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TomSD

I like the circulation solution. Mine is a quick and dirty duct tube down to the bottom and some grating keeping the kegs off the floor. I might have to give yours a shot to clear up some space on the hump.

Great job.

Tom - Your post was real inspiration for me, and the main guide I used for my build.

The air system is really easy to build, and inexpensive. I think you have the same bilge fan already. I just took a reducer and used a very heavy bead of silicone caulk to attach it to the adapter. Here's a close up..... hope it helps.

**microbusbrewery** · 02-05-2012, 02:20 PM

Very nice build. I like how you've routed your lines for a very clean look. Does the little bottle with the blue cap hold your temp probe?