External Width for Kegerators: How to Choose Yours

How to Measure Your Space for a Kegerator

To determine your required external width, you must measure the specific alcove or floor area where the kegerator will sit. Use a metal tape measure to record the width of the space, ensuring you account for any baseboards or trim that might protrude from the wall.

Accounting for Door Swing

The external width of the kegerator is only half of the spatial requirement. You must ensure there is enough clearance for the door to swing open at least 90 degrees. If the unit is placed against a wall, the door on that side may have restricted movement, requiring you to measure the depth of the unit’s handle and the arc of the door’s swing.

Locating Width on Product Specifications

Manufacturers typically list the external width in the technical specifications section of the product description. Look for the “External Width” or “Dimensions” label, which will provide the measurement in inches. Always confirm that the measurement includes the door handles and any side protrusions, as these are often the points of contact that prevent a unit from fitting into a tight space.

What Happens if the External Width is Incorrect?

Choosing an external width that is too large for your space results in a unit that physically cannot enter the room or prevents the door from opening. If the unit is squeezed into a space with only a fraction of an inch of clearance, the friction against the walls can damage the exterior finish or make it impossible to slide the unit into place.

Risks of an External Width That is Too Large

If the external width exceeds your available space by even a small margin, the kegerator will block walkways or prevent adjacent furniture from being placed correctly. In tight configurations, a unit that is too wide may also prevent the door from opening wide enough to remove a keg for replacement, effectively locking the keg inside the cabinet.

Make sure to evaluate the proper external height for kegerators to ensure it fits under your counter.

Risks of an External Width That is Too Small

While a smaller external width saves space, it may limit the internal capacity of the unit. If you choose a narrow model to fit a small niche, you may find it cannot accommodate a full 1/2 barrel keg or may lack the internal depth required for proper cooling airflow. A unit that is too narrow for your needs might force you to use smaller 1/6 barrel kegs more frequently, increasing the cost and effort of refilling.

What to Do if You Fall Between Two Widths?

If your measured space is exactly between two standard external width options, you should prioritize the smaller dimension. It is easier to add a few inches of clearance to a floor plan than it is to remove physical obstructions from a permanent structure.

Creating a Safety Buffer

We recommend leaving at least 1 to 2 inches of “wiggle room” on either side of the kegerator. This buffer allows for easier cleaning, airflow for the cooling system, and prevents the unit from being wedged tightly against walls. If your space is 30 inches wide, a 28-inch wide unit provides the necessary clearance to ensure the door functions correctly and the unit can be moved for maintenance.

Final Verification of Local Rules

Before finalizing your choice based on external width and placement, confirm the local requirements for your specific location regarding appliance installation and ventilation. Some areas may have specific requirements for how much clearance is needed around cooling units to ensure proper operation and safety.

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.