Keg System

[Lodestone]

So I have had my first bottle explode. It was pasteurized but apparently I failed to hold at least one bottle to temp long enough. As a result swmbo has declared there will be no more natural carbing done in the house. This has worked in my favor as now I have cause to start kegging and force carbing cider.

So now I need a keg system and there are so many its mind boggling. I have 2 mini fridges that can hold 5 gal corny kegs. I also have access to the kegs from a vendor at work that I can get for free. So I guess I am just looking for some pointers into a good system that is sturdy and tested. Price range is between 200-300 usd.

 

[Icarus9414]

If you're converting a mini fridge into a kegerator, the dimensions will have to be at least 4.5 cu ft to fit two cornys, a 5 lb. tank, and a regulator in the fridge. If you're going the conversion route, you're probably better off buying a kit. The kit will give you everything except the fridge and the kegs. My kit set me back $200 or so. My kit includes a tower tap. If you get a kit, pay the extra money to get a double tap. My only regret with my setup is that I have only one homebrew on tap at a time without changing over the beer line.

 

[MarkKF]

I use kegs to carb my cider. I put them in the corner of my basement, no fridge. When ready I bottle for transport or fill a growler to chill for consumption. I used cornykeg.com

 

[antony]

I used keg connection. CO2 tank, dual regulator, two perlick taps and beer lines for right around the price you're looking at. Really pleased with it.

Nice job on making the bottle explode...that's the best way to get her to say yes.

 

[treacheroustexan]

I got all of my kegging equipment from birdmanbrewing.com. Nice prices and fast shipping. Worth a look!

 

[Lodestone]

I use kegs to carb my cider. I put them in the corner of my basement, no fridge. When ready I bottle for transport or fill a growler to chill for consumption. I used cornykeg.com

Does it still carb fine not being cold? Or does it just take a bit longer than with chilled liquid? I have 4 kegs my rep dropped off yesterday and I am pretty sure I can scrounge up a regulator. If that's the case I may just rig something together tonight.

 

[Lodestone]

Apparently my phone like to double post. :what:

 

[TheHopfather]

Carbonation will still happen at room temp, you just need more pressure. Google "CO2 Pressure Temp Chart" to figure out what pressure you need for your room temp (or fridge temp even). CO2 absorbs more easily into cold liquid than warm so when your beer/cider is cooler you need less pressure. It takes the same amount of time.

Here's a link for you, I like this chart;
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/09/bd/48/09bd48afa4c2fa411114e283f0a6972d.jpg

 

[MarkKF]

That's the chart I use. I shoot for 2.50 vol. on my cider. I set it and forget. Got plenty of time.