So, you’ve got a 5 cubic foot freezer and dreams of turning it into the ultimate kegerator. Maybe you’re envisioning homebrewed IPAs on tap, or perhaps you’re just tired of lugging around cases of beer. Whatever your motivation, the burning question is: how many kegs can you realistically cram into that chilly box? The answer, as with many things in life, isn’t a simple number. It depends on a few key factors, from keg size to freezer design. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Keg Sizes: The Key to Capacity
Before we even think about shoving kegs into a freezer, we need to understand the different sizes available. This is crucial because the dimensions of each keg directly impact how many you can squeeze in. The “standard” keg size is often referred to as a half-barrel, but there are several other options to consider.
The Quarter Barrel (Pony Keg)
The quarter barrel, often called a pony keg, is a popular choice for smaller gatherings or when you want more variety on tap. It holds approximately 7.75 gallons or 62 pints of beer. Physically, it’s shorter and wider than a sixth barrel. This shape can sometimes be advantageous for maximizing space in a freezer, especially if height is a limiting factor.
The Sixth Barrel (Sixtel)
Sixth barrels are becoming increasingly common, particularly with craft breweries. They hold about 5.16 gallons or 41 pints. They’re taller and skinnier than quarter barrels, which can make them easier to stack or fit alongside other kegs, depending on the freezer’s layout. Many homebrewers also find sixth barrels easier to handle.
The Cornelius (Corny) Keg
While technically not a commercially available keg in the same vein as the others, the Cornelius keg (corny keg) is a favorite among homebrewers. These stainless steel kegs were originally used for soda, and are now readily available for homebrew enthusiasts. They typically hold 5 gallons and their cylindrical shape makes them fairly easy to stack or arrange. They are vital if you are thinking about multiple brews on tap.
Assessing Your 5 Cubic Foot Freezer: Interior Dimensions Matter
Cubic feet is a measure of volume, but it doesn’t tell us much about the usable space inside your freezer. A 5 cubic foot freezer can come in various shapes and sizes. The external dimensions are important for placement, but the internal dimensions are what truly dictate how many kegs you can fit.
Measuring the Interior
Grab a tape measure and carefully measure the interior height, width, and depth of your freezer. Pay close attention to any obstructions, such as the motor housing, shelving supports, or cooling coils. These can significantly reduce the usable space. These are the dimensions we will use when thinking about keg placement.
Chest Freezer vs. Upright Freezer
The type of freezer you have will also play a role. Chest freezers generally offer more usable space because they don’t have shelves or drawers taking up room. However, accessing kegs in a chest freezer can be a bit more challenging, requiring you to lift them out from the top. Upright freezers may be more convenient for accessing kegs, but they typically have less usable space due to the shelves and drawers.
Calculating Keg Capacity: The Math and the Reality
Now comes the tricky part: figuring out how many kegs can actually fit. We need to consider the dimensions of both the kegs and the freezer, and then do some spatial reasoning.
Considering the “Perfect” Scenario
In a perfect world, we could simply divide the freezer’s volume by the volume of a single keg to get the maximum capacity. However, kegs are cylindrical, and freezers are typically rectangular, leaving empty space in the corners. So, we have to account for this inefficiency.
Estimating Based on Keg Dimensions
Let’s take a common scenario: fitting sixth barrel kegs into a 5 cubic foot chest freezer. A sixth barrel keg is approximately 23.3 inches tall and 9 inches in diameter. A typical 5 cubic foot chest freezer might have interior dimensions of roughly 28 inches wide, 20 inches deep, and 24 inches tall.
In this case, you might be able to squeeze in two sixth barrels side-by-side, but the height could be a limiting factor. Even if the height allows, you would have little to no room for the CO2 tank, lines, and other hardware necessary for a functioning kegerator.
The Role of the CO2 Tank and Hardware
Don’t forget about the CO2 tank, beer lines, regulator, and tap shank! These components all take up space and need to be considered when planning your kegerator setup. A 5lb CO2 tank is a common size for home kegerators and can take up a significant amount of space. You might need to place the CO2 tank outside the freezer if space is tight, which requires drilling a hole for the beer lines.
Real-World Considerations: Practicality and Accessibility
Even if you can technically fit a certain number of kegs into your freezer, consider the practicality of accessing them. Can you easily swap out an empty keg for a full one? Can you reach the taps without straining your back? A crowded kegerator can be a hassle to maintain, so it’s often better to prioritize usability over maximum capacity.
Optimizing Space in Your Kegerator: Tips and Tricks
While a 5 cubic foot freezer isn’t huge, there are things you can do to maximize the usable space and make your kegerator more efficient.
Minimize Insulation Thickness
While insulation is crucial for maintaining temperature, overly thick insulation can eat into valuable interior space. If you’re building a custom kegerator, consider using thinner, high-quality insulation to maximize interior volume.
External CO2 Tank Placement
As mentioned earlier, moving the CO2 tank outside the freezer can free up a significant amount of space inside. This requires drilling a hole for the beer lines, but it can be well worth the effort if space is tight.
Strategic Keg Placement
Experiment with different keg arrangements to see what fits best. You might be able to stack smaller kegs on top of each other, or you might find that a diagonal arrangement maximizes space utilization. Also be sure that you are able to easily access the taps.
Utilize Vertical Space
If your freezer has enough height, consider building a small platform to raise one keg above another. This allows you to utilize vertical space that would otherwise be wasted. However, remember that this will make the top keg harder to lift and replace.
Consider Smaller Keg Sizes
If space is truly limited, opt for sixth barrels or corny kegs instead of quarter barrels. While you’ll have to change kegs more often, you’ll be able to fit more variety on tap.
Proper Planning and Design
Careful planning is key to maximizing space utilization. Sketch out your kegerator design on paper or use a 3D modeling program to visualize the layout and identify potential space-saving opportunities.
The Verdict: How Many Kegs?
So, after all this, what’s the final answer? In most cases, you’ll likely be able to fit one quarter barrel or two sixth barrels in a 5 cubic foot freezer, along with the necessary hardware, provided you optimize the space and potentially move the CO2 tank outside. Trying to fit more than that will likely result in a cramped, difficult-to-manage kegerator. Keep in mind the CO2 tank size will affect how many kegs you can place in the unit. Realistically, it’s typically only possible to fit two sixth barrels, or one corny keg, and the CO2 tank.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the capacity of your specific freezer is to measure its interior dimensions, consider the dimensions of the kegs you want to use, and experiment with different arrangements. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box (or, in this case, the freezer) to create the kegerator of your dreams. Remember to account for insulation, CO2 tanks, and proper airflow for efficient cooling. Happy brewing!
What types of kegs can realistically fit into a 5 cubic foot freezer?
A 5 cubic foot freezer is generally suitable for housing a single sixth-barrel keg (also known as a “sixtel”), or a Cornelius (Corny) keg, which is commonly used for homebrewing. While attempting to squeeze in a full-size half-barrel keg (the standard size you find commercially) is highly unlikely without significant modifications, a smaller keg offers a much better chance of fitting. Always measure the interior dimensions of your specific freezer model to confirm compatibility with the keg dimensions before making a purchase.
Keep in mind that modifications like removing internal shelving or the freezer door’s inner liner might create additional space, but doing so could compromise the freezer’s insulation and cooling efficiency. Even with modifications, fitting more than one sixtel keg in a 5 cubic foot freezer is usually difficult. Focusing on optimizing space for a single keg and the necessary dispensing equipment is the most practical approach.
Will I need to modify my 5 cubic foot freezer to fit a keg?
Depending on the specific 5 cubic foot freezer model and the type of keg you’re trying to fit, modifications may be necessary. Sixth-barrel kegs and Corny kegs are more likely to fit without modification, but even then, you might need to remove internal shelving or reposition temperature sensors to maximize space. Carefully measure the internal dimensions of your freezer and compare them to the keg’s dimensions before making any decisions.
If you’re considering a half-barrel keg, significant modifications would be required, potentially including removing the entire freezer door liner or even altering the freezer’s shape. This can compromise the insulation and cooling performance. For half-barrel kegs, a larger freezer is highly recommended to avoid extensive and potentially damaging modifications. Always prioritize maintaining the freezer’s integrity for efficient cooling.
What are the typical dimensions of a sixth-barrel keg (sixtel) and a Cornelius (Corny) keg?
A sixth-barrel keg (sixtel) typically measures around 23.3 inches tall and has a diameter of 9.25 inches. This compact size makes it the most common choice for fitting into smaller freezers. Exact dimensions may vary slightly between manufacturers, so it’s always a good idea to check the specifications for the specific keg you intend to use.
A Cornelius (Corny) keg, popular for homebrewing, usually measures approximately 25 inches tall and has a diameter of 8.5 inches. While slightly taller than a sixtel, its narrower diameter can sometimes make it a better fit in certain freezers. Again, always verify the specific dimensions of your Corny keg to ensure it fits within your freezer’s available space.
How does freezer insulation affect how many kegs can fit?
Freezer insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining a consistent temperature and efficiency, but it also takes up space within the freezer. Thicker insulation, while beneficial for keeping the contents cold, reduces the internal dimensions of the freezer. This means that even if the overall exterior dimensions of the freezer seem adequate, the usable space inside might be less than you expect.
When planning to fit a keg, it’s important to consider the insulation thickness when calculating available space. Models with thinner insulation may offer slightly more room inside, potentially allowing for a tighter fit. However, prioritize models with sufficient insulation to maintain a consistent cold temperature, which is essential for preserving the quality of your beer. A well-insulated freezer will ultimately be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.
What dispensing equipment do I need to factor in when calculating keg space?
When planning your kegerator setup, remember to account for the space required by dispensing equipment. This includes the tap tower (if mounted on top of the freezer), the CO2 tank, the regulator, and all the necessary beer and gas lines. The dimensions of these components can significantly impact the number of kegs you can realistically fit inside the freezer.
Consider the placement of the CO2 tank, whether it will be inside or outside the freezer. If inside, it will consume valuable space. The regulator and beer lines also require careful routing to avoid kinks and ensure proper dispensing. Plan the layout meticulously, considering all components, to maximize available space and prevent future headaches. External mounting of the CO2 tank can free up significant interior space.
Can I use a temperature controller to help keep the keg at the optimal temperature?
Yes, a temperature controller is highly recommended for maintaining the optimal temperature for your keg. Standard freezer thermostats can be inaccurate and may not provide the precise temperature control needed for beer. An external temperature controller allows you to set the desired temperature with greater accuracy, typically within a degree or two.
These controllers work by cycling the freezer on and off as needed to maintain the set temperature, preventing the beer from freezing or becoming too warm. This precise control is essential for preventing over-carbonation, flat beer, and other issues that can arise from temperature fluctuations. Investing in a quality temperature controller is a small price to pay for ensuring your beer stays at its best.
How can I maximize the space inside my 5 cubic foot freezer kegerator?
To maximize space, begin by removing any unnecessary shelving or interior components that aren’t essential for supporting the keg or dispensing equipment. Optimize the placement of the CO2 tank, ideally mounting it outside the freezer if possible. Use compact fittings and tubing for the beer and gas lines to minimize clutter and wasted space.
Consider using a slimline tap tower if mounting it on top of the freezer. Organize the interior carefully, ensuring all components are securely in place and don’t interfere with the keg. Strategic use of space can make a significant difference, allowing you to fit a slightly larger keg or additional accessories. Remember that adequate airflow is still essential for efficient cooling, so avoid over-packing the freezer.