What is a beer fridge called?

A beer fridge, also commonly known as a beer refrigerator, is a specialized refrigerator designed specifically for storing beer. Just like wine needs to be stored at particular temperatures, beer also has ideal temperature ranges that a standard fridge may not be able to provide. For the optimal tasting experience and to avoid damaging the beer, a beer fridge allows you to dial in the precise temperature control needed.

What Temperature Should a Beer Fridge Be?

The ideal temperature to store and serve different styles of beer can vary. Here are some general guidelines on beer fridge temperatures:

• Lagers: 36-42°F (2-5°C)
• Ales: 42-55°F (5-12°C)
• Stouts & Porters: 42-55°F (5-12°C)

Colder temperatures, around 36-40°F, are better suited for lighter lagers and pilsners. The colder temperature allows the clean, crisp flavors to shine through. Warmer temperatures, around 55°F, are preferred for bold, flavorful beers like stouts, Belgian ales, and IPAs. The slightly warmer temperature helps bring out the complex aromas and tastes.

Benefits of a Beer Fridge

There are several key benefits that a beer fridge provides over a standard refrigerator:

• Precise temperature control – Beer fridges allow you to set a specific temperature, adjustable in small increments, according to the styles of beer being stored.
• Consistent temperatures – Standard refrigerators experience frequent temperature fluctuations when the door is opened. Beer fridges recover and maintain set temperatures quickly.
• Insulated cabinets – Better insulation maintains temperatures and prevents energy loss. Refrigerators meant for food storage often lack sufficient insulation for beer.
• UV protection – Tinted glass doors block light which can skunk or deteriorate beer over time.
• Vibration reduction – Many models have compressor mounts to minimize vibration which can disturb sediment in beer.

By providing optimum storage conditions, a beer refrigerator preserves beer quality, aroma, and taste. The ability to tweak temperatures allows you to fine-tune the coldness for individual styles of beer. Overall, a beer fridge offers superior functionality over a regular fridge when it comes to crafting the perfect pint.

Types of Beer Fridges and Coolers

There is an extensive range of beer refrigerator styles and designs available. Models differ based on size, layout, cooling system, and additional features. Here are some of the most common beer fridge types:

Compact/Mini Fridges

• Small capacity from 120 – 350 cans
• Suitable for apartments, game rooms, man caves
• Freestanding or built-in installation
• Front-venting allows for enclosure in cabinets
• Single-zone cooling
• Glass or solid door options
• Price range from $200 – $700

Full-Size/Large Refrigerators

• Larger capacity from 350 – 750+ cans
• Free-standing installation
• Dual-zone or multi-zone cooling
• Better humidity and temperature control
• Slide-out shelving for organizing beers
• Advanced features like touchscreens
• Price range from $700 – $4000

Built-In Beer Dispensers/Kegerators

• Built-in undercounter installation
• Dispense draft beer from kegs
• Convertible to refrigerator with kits
• Front-venting; doesn’t require much clearance
• Tap tower has spout for filling glasses/mugs
• CO2 tank provides compressed air
• Price range from $300 – $2000

Countertop Beer Coolers

• Compact size fits on counters
• Typically holds 120 or less cans
• No plumbing required
• Convenient grab-and-go access
• Affordable and portable
• Electric or thermoelectric cooling
• Price range from $100 – $400

Dual-Zone/Multi-Zone Coolers

• Separate compartments for different temperatures
• Allows you to store ales, lagers, wines together
• Precise temperature control for each zone
• Zones typically set at upper 30s°F and mid 40s°F
• Higher price tag than single-zone models
• Better for enthusiasts with varied collections
• Price range from $700 – $4000

Popular Beer Fridge Brands

When shopping for a beer refrigerator, you’ll encounter many brands. Here are some of the top manufacturers producing high-quality beer fridges:

• Danby – A leading maker of specialty refrigerators including beer fridges and kegerators. They offer an extensive selection of sizes and styles at reasonable price points.
• EdgeStar – A popular brand producing beer coolers especially built-in kegerators. They offer innovative features and technology like smart apps.
• Frigidaire – A trusted home appliance company also making beer fridges. They focus on user-friendly operation and convenient storage options.
• GE – A reputable appliance manufacturer offering beer refrigerators with precise digital temperature control.
• Haier – A global appliance brand designing high-quality beer coolers with dual-zone cooling and other advanced features.
• Kalamera – A beer fridge specialist crafting innovative refrigerators with excellent insulation and customizable storage.
• Marvel – A leader in built-in refrigeration systems including undercounter beer dispensers.
• NewAir – A company focusing on specialty appliances including compact beer fridges for game rooms.
• Phiestina – An appliance brand offering a wide selection of beer coolers with unique features like vibration damping.
• Summit – A top maker of residential and commercial beer refrigerators prized for durability and temperature precision.
• U-Line – A premium brand designing highly integrated undercounter beer dispensers.

These are some of the most trusted, innovative names when shopping for the ideal beer fridge to suit your needs and budget.

Key Features to Look for

Today’s beer coolers offer much more than just a cold storage compartment. When selecting a beer refrigerator, keep an eye out for these helpful features:

• Precise digital temperature control – Look for fridges with adjustable electronic thermostats, allowing you to fine-tune temperatures in small increments.
• Wide temperature range – Wider temperature ranges, like 34°F to 65°F, provide flexibility for storing different beer varieties.
• Interior lighting – LED lighting makes it easy to view your beer selection.
• Shelving configurations – Search for adjustable, slide-out shelves to customize storage exactly how you want.
• Door locks – Locks provide secured access and prevent accidental temperature changes.
• Smart functionality – Wifi, app control, and digital displays offer convenience and visibility into fridge conditions.
• Thermal alarms – Alerts notify you if the temperature veers out of the optimal beer range.
• Auto defrost – Self-defrosting interiors prevent icy buildup without warming the compartment.
• Vibration control – Compressor padding and fan adjustments minimize vibration and sediment disturbance.
• UV filtering – Tinted glass protects against light damage while still displaying your collection.

The latest refrigerators allow you to take your home taproom to the next level with these innovative features for beer storage and dispensing.

Where to Buy Beer Fridges

You can find beer refrigerators for sale from several sources:

Online

• Amazon – Massive selection across all price ranges. Look for Prime eligible for fast shipping.
• Home Depot – Large appliance retailer with plenty of beer fridge options and models on display in stores.
• Walmart – Budget-friendly prices on smaller beer coolers from brands like Danby and Igloo.
• Wayfair – Specialty retailer with tons of beer refrigerators and reviews. Good for shopper research.
• Abt – Authorized dealer for high-end brands like Marvel, U-Line, Summit. Prices start around $1600.
• KegWorks – Specialized kegerator online store with DIY conversion kits.

Local Retail Stores

• Big box stores – Check Best Buy, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Costco.
• Appliance stores – Try brands’ own stores like hhgregg, ABC Warehouse, Pacific Sales.
• Furniture stores – Many carry appliances including beer fridges like Ashley HomeStore, IKEA.
• Discount retailers – Walmart, Target, Sam’s Club have budget-tier options.
• Beverage stores – Some wine and liquor stores sell beer coolers.

Online retailers provide the widest selection and easy comparison shopping. If buying in local stores, call ahead to check beer refrigerator stock before visiting. Prices are generally comparable to online when factoring in possible shipping costs.

How Much Does a Beer Fridge Cost?

There is a very broad range of beer refrigerator prices depending on size, features, and brand. Here are some general beer cooler price ranges:

• Mini/compact fridges – $150 to $700+
• Full-size refrigerators – $500 to $4000+
• Built-in undercounter – $300 to $2000+
• Small countertop coolers – $100 to $400
• Kegerators (with keg coupler kit) – $300 to $2000+

In general, you can expect to spend:

• $100 to $500 for smaller capacity basic models
• $500 to $1500 for mid-range full-size refrigerators
• $1500+ for premium or commercial-grade beer coolers

Factors that increase the price include larger capacity, dual/multi-zone cooling, advanced digital controls, stainless steel exteriors, and integrated draft dispensing systems. Bottom line, set a budget based on your needs and look for the best beer fridge features you can afford.

Maintenance Tips

With proper care and maintenance, a beer fridge should provide many years of optimized beer storage and drinking pleasure. Here are some tips to keep your beer refrigerator in top shape:

• Keep the condenser coils clean. Vacuum the coils a few times per year to remove dust buildup.
• Use a soft damp cloth to wipe down the interior. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Check and replace the door gasket if not sealing properly.
• Defrost manual-defrost models periodically to avoid ice buildup.
• Remove expired or skunked beers promptly to free up space.
• Ensure adequate ventilation space around the refrigerator.
• Adjust temperature settings if noticing beers are too warm or freezing.
• Tighten connections on draft beer lines to prevent leaks.

Adhering to the manufacturer’s usage and care guidelines will also maximize the lifetime of your beer fridge. Reaching out to customer support as needed for troubleshooting or repairs can help nip issues in the bud.

Conclusion

When equipped with the right refrigerator, you can have cold, tasty beers on demand right from home. Beer fridges allow you to achieve the perfect pour regardless of style thanks to precise temperature control unavailable in normal refrigerators. Models range from compact and countertop units to full-size and integrated draft stations.

Key aspects to factor into your buying decision include capacity needs, installation requirements, temperature range, and features like lighting and shelving. Leading beer refrigerator brands known for quality and innovation include Danby, EdgeStar, Kalamera, and U-Line. Prices span an extensive range from around $100 into the thousands for commercial-grade units.

Properly maintaining your beer fridge, cleaning it regularly, and replacing worn parts helps ensure it lasts for many years. Keeping “cold ones” cold is what beer refrigerators do best. So if you’re passionate about brews, a specialized beer fridge is a must-have upgrade for your home bar setup.