How to Clean Kegerator: A Comprehensive Guide

A kegerator is a device used to store and dispense kegs of beer. Over time, the kegerator can become dirty and require a thorough cleaning to maintain proper hygiene and prevent flavor contamination. In this article, we will guide you on how to effectively clean your kegerator, ensuring that you always serve fresh and delicious beer.

Understanding the Importance of Cleaning Your Kegerator

As a beer enthusiast, owning a kegerator could be one of the best investments that you can make. With a kegerator, you can enjoy your favorite beer right at home, without having to make frequent trips to the liquor store. However, owning a kegerator comes with its responsibilities, and one of them is cleaning it regularly. Cleaning your kegerator is essential to ensure that it dispenses fresh and quality beer every time. Failure to clean your kegerator can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungus, which can ruin the taste of your beer and pose a health risk. Therefore, understanding the importance of cleaning your kegerator is the first step in maintaining it.

Preparing to Clean Your Kegerator

Before you start cleaning your kegerator, it is crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary equipment. You will need a cleaning kit that contains a cleaning solution, cleaning bottle, and faucet wrench. You will also need a container to catch the cleaning solution and a soft cloth or sponge. When you have all the equipment, turn off and unplug your kegerator, and remove any leftover beer or keg. Disassemble the faucets and couplers and soak them in warm water.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution

There are different types of cleaning solutions available in the market, and it’s essential to choose the right one for your kegerator. Select a cleaning solution that is specifically designed for cleaning kegerators and beer lines. Avoid using household detergents or bleach as they can leave residue that can affect the taste of your beer. It is also important to read the instructions on the cleaning solution and follow them strictly.

Cleaning Your Kegerator

One of the most critical takeaways from this guide is the importance of regularly cleaning your kegerator. Not only does cleaning ensure that your beer tastes fresh and of high quality, but it also helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that could pose a health risk. Aside from cleaning, maintaining your kegerator regularly is equally important, such as checking its temperature, changing the CO2 tank, and inspecting for leaks. Remember to choose the right cleaning solution for your kegerator and follow the instructions carefully for the best results.

Cleaning the Beer Lines

Start by mixing the cleaning solution with water according to the instructions on the package. Fill the cleaning bottle with the solution and attach it to the keg coupler. Open the valve and push the cleaning solution through the beer lines. Let the solution sit for the recommended time, usually around 10-15 minutes. After that, flush the beer lines with clean water until there is no more cleaning solution left in the lines.

Cleaning the Faucets and Couplers

Once you’ve cleaned the beer lines, it’s time to clean the faucets and couplers. Remove them from the kegerator and soak them in the cleaning solution for the recommended time. After that, rinse them with clean water and dry them using a soft cloth or sponge. Be sure to clean the inside of the faucets thoroughly and remove any residue that may have accumulated.

Cleaning the Kegerator Interior

After cleaning the beer lines, faucets, and couplers, it’s time to clean the kegerator’s interior. Use a soft cloth or sponge soaked in the cleaning solution to wipe down the interior surfaces of the kegerator. Pay attention to areas where beer may have spilled or dripped. After cleaning, rinse the interior with clean water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

Reassembling the Kegerator

Once you’ve cleaned all the parts of the kegerator, it’s time to reassemble it. Put back the faucets and couplers and reattach any other parts that you removed. If you have a drip tray, clean it separately and put it back in place. Once everything is in place, plug in and turn on the kegerator and let it run for a few minutes to ensure that everything is working correctly.

Maintaining Your Kegerator

Cleaning your kegerator regularly is essential, but it’s not enough to keep it working correctly. You also need to maintain it regularly to ensure that it works correctly and lasts for a long time. Some of the things you can do to maintain your kegerator include:

• Checking the temperature regularly to ensure that it’s within the recommended range.
• Changing the CO2 tank when it’s empty.
• Inspecting the kegerator for leaks and fixing them promptly.
• Using quality beer line cleaners and following the instructions on the package.

FAQs – How to Clean Kegerator

Why is it important to clean my kegerator?

Cleaning your kegerator consistently is important because it helps to maintain the quality and taste of your beer. Neglecting to clean your kegerator can lead to build-up of bacteria, yeast, and mold, which can affect the flavor and aroma of your beer.

How often should I clean my kegerator?

It is important to routinely clean your kegerator. A thorough cleaning should be done after every keg or every 3-6 months, depending on how often you use it. However, if you notice any unusual smells, flavors or textures in your beer, it’s best to clean your kegerator as soon as possible.

What do I need to clean my kegerator?

To effectively clean your kegerator, you’ll need a few supplies, including a cleaning solution that is safe for use on stainless steel, such as Star-San or PBW, hot water, a pump, a soft-bristle brush, a towel, and a rinse agent.

How do I clean the inside of my kegerator?

To clean the inside of your kegerator, first, unplug the unit and remove any kegs, faucets, and other hardware that can be disassembled. Then, prepare a cleaning solution by mixing a cleaning agent with hot water, and pump the solution through the beer lines, faucet, and keg coupler. After letting the cleaning solution soak for the recommended time, pump it out of the system and rinse with hot water. Reconnect the faucets and keg coupler and allow the system to fully dry before reassembling.

How do I clean the outside of my kegerator?

To clean the outside of your kegerator, use a soft-bristle brush or cloth with a cleaning solution to wipe down the exterior surfaces. Rinse with a damp cloth and then dry completely with a towel. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of your kegerator.

Can I use regular household cleaners to clean my kegerator?

It’s important to note that regular household cleaners can be too harsh and may damage the stainless-steel surface of your kegerator. Only use cleaning agents that are specifically designed for use on stainless steel, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.