External Height for Kegerators: How to Choose Yours

How Do I Measure My Available Space for a Kegerator?

To establish your required external height, you must measure the clear vertical space where the kegerator will reside. Use a metal tape measure to record the distance from the floor to the lowest obstruction, such as a countertop, shelf, or overhead cabinet.

Before finalizing your purchase, learn how to measure external width.

Accounting for Obstructions

Measure the distance from the floor to the underside of the surface where the unit will sit. Subtract at least 2 in. from this measurement to account for the faucet assembly and the handle of the lid, which often protrude above the main body of the unit.

Checking Door Clearance

If the kegerator is placed in a nook or against a wall, measure the height of the door frame. Ensure that the external height of the unit does not interfere with the door’s ability to swing open past 90 degrees, as some hinges require extra clearance.

Where to Find the External Height on a Product

The external height is typically listed in the product specifications as “Height” or “External Dimensions.” Look for the measurement in inches (in.) to ensure it matches your recorded space. Always verify that the height includes the lid and any attached taps, as some manufacturers only list the height of the cabinet base.

What Happens if the External Height is Wrong?

Selecting an external height that is too large or too small results in immediate physical installation failures. If the unit is too tall for the designated area, it will physically collide with the underside of the counter or shelf, preventing the lid from opening or the unit from being pushed into place.

Risks of a Height That is Too Large

If the external height exceeds your available clearance, the unit will not sit flush against the floor or the counter. This can cause the unit to tilt, potentially leading to spills or uneven cooling. In some cases, you may be forced to place the unit in a different room, which may not have the necessary power outlets or floor weight capacity.

Make sure your unit fits by viewing how to measure external depth.

Risks of a Height That is Too Small

While a smaller external height is often easier to fit, a unit that is too short for your needs may lack the internal volume required for your specific cooling needs. If the internal cavity is too small to house a standard 1/2 barrel keg or a 1/6 barrel keg, the unit becomes unusable regardless of how well it fits the space.

What Should I Do if My Space is Between Two Sizes?

When your measured space falls between two standard external height options, the safest decision is to select the smaller height. Choosing the smaller unit ensures that the device will physically fit into the space while still providing the necessary functionality.

Prioritizing Physical Fit Over Volume

A kegerator that is 1 in. too tall for a counter cannot be used in that location. If you are caught between a 36 in. and a 38 in. model, the 36 in. unit provides the certainty of a successful installation. You can often compensate for slightly less internal volume by choosing a more efficient cooling system or a smaller keg size.

Confirming Final Clearance

Before ordering, double-check your measurement one final time. If your space is extremely tight, consider the thickness of the base and the height of the faucet. Confirm the current rules and requirements for your specific location before ordering to ensure the unit meets all local installation standards.

Reviewed by the MyHobbyLobby editorial team. MyHobbyLobby writes these guides from the 200 most-reviewed Kegerators listings in our retail dataset, not from manufacturer copy.