looking for kegging equipment advice

[Steve Brown]

Hey -

Now that I've got these great new kegs, seems like I'll need to find deals on a CO2 tank (and gas!), regulator (dual gauge??), fittings, hoses, taps, etc. Is there anything else? I've been reading the forums and looking at commercial sites, but I'm always looking for experienced opinions.

Also, I think I have a line on an old fridge converted to kegerator with some other equipment, too. Would anyone be willing to look at it with me Monday or Tuesday evening? There would of course be some sort of presumably liquid compensation involved....

Thanks much,
--Steve

[Rob Martin]

I bought a single tap system about 6-7 years ago. It has only been in the last year I wish I had a double tapper.

Highly recommended going with Perlick. I hate my 'standard' tap.

[klickcue]

Normally, I use Keg Connection for my regulators or kits http://stores.kegconnection.com/StoreFront.bok The Tap Rite regulator is very nice with a locking red adjusting knob, pull out to adjust. It it comes in the locked position, don't think that it is stuck and break the knob.

Dual gauges are nice. The high pressure gauge give you an idea how much CO2 (pressure) is left in your tank. You can run the tank pretty much empty since you are not refilling other containers. The low pressure gauge will be set for your beer's carbonation level.

CO2 tanks are shipped empty. Exchange your new tank at Paxair for a used full cylinder. I consider a 5# cylinder a minimum size for home use without running to the store for a refill.

A refrig needs to hold at least 4 corny kegs unless it is in your living quarters. With this size, it can double as a ferment chamber. Controlled at cellar temperatures (50 oF), a lager can be done nicely.
With another controller and a ferm wrap or hot pad, a Kolsch style can be done at 60 oF, with 2 drinking corny kegs in the refrig.