Refrigerator and Cooling

Cooling Zone

Keg

Gas Path

Your carbonated water system needs to be housed in a refrigerator to keep the water cold. Cold water carbonates better and provides refreshing cold sparkling water on demand.

Choosing a Refrigerator

You can use:

• A dedicated mini-fridge (recommended for a dedicated setup)
• A section of your main refrigerator
• A portable refrigerator (great for events or temporary setups)

The system doesn’t require much space - a small mini-fridge works perfectly.

Compressor vs Thermoelectric Cooling

You really want a fridge with a compressor, not electrical (thermoelectric/Peltier) cooling. Compressor-based refrigerators can reach and maintain lower temperatures needed for optimal carbonation (35-40°F), while thermoelectric coolers typically only cool 20-30°C below ambient temperature, which may not be sufficient.

Common RV/Camping Fridge Models

Many RV and camping refrigerators use compressor-based cooling and work well for this application. Popular options include:

• Dometic CFX Series: Portable compressor fridges available in various sizes (CFX3 25, CFX3 35, CFX3 45, etc.). Efficient, reliable, and can run on 12V DC or AC power.
• ICECO Portable Fridges: Compressor-based portable fridges (VL series, JP series) known for good performance and energy efficiency.
• Alpicool Portable Fridges: Budget-friendly compressor fridges with good cooling performance.
• Standard Mini-Fridges: Many standard home mini-fridges use compressor cooling and work perfectly for this setup. Look for models that can maintain temperatures around 35-40°F.

When selecting a fridge, prioritize compressor-based cooling and ensure it can maintain temperatures in the 35-40°F range for optimal carbonation.

Fridge Sizing

The size of refrigerator you need depends on your keg size and whether you want to store the CO₂ tank inside:

• Small kegs (1/2-2.5 gallons): A compact mini-fridge (1.7-3.2 cubic feet) typically works well. These smaller kegs fit easily and leave room for the CO₂ tank if you want it inside, plus space for tubing and the faucet.
• Medium kegs (3-5 gallons): A larger mini-fridge (3.5-5 cubic feet) provides more comfortable space. You’ll have room for the keg, CO₂ tank (if storing inside), and good air circulation.
• CO₂ tank placement: The CO₂ tank can be stored inside or outside the refrigerator. If storing outside, you can use a smaller fridge. If storing inside, account for the tank size (typically 5-10 inches in diameter and 12-18 inches tall for a 5lb tank).

General guidelines:

• Measure your keg dimensions and add 2-3 inches clearance on all sides for air circulation
• If storing CO₂ inside, add space for the tank plus clearance
• Ensure there’s room to route tubing and position the faucet/tap
• A 3-5 cubic foot mini-fridge is a good starting point for most setups

The system doesn’t require much space - even a small mini-fridge can work, especially with smaller kegs or external CO₂ tank storage.

Installation

1. Place the keg in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s stable and level.
2. Route the water line and CO₂ lines into the refrigerator. See the Water Line Setup guide for detailed instructions on routing the water line and passing it through the refrigerator wall.
3. Position the faucet/tap so it’s easily accessible.
4. Ensure the CO₂ tank can be accessed for refills (it can be inside or outside the fridge).

Cooling Benefits

• Better Carbonation: Cold water absorbs CO₂ more efficiently
• Faster Carbonation: The system will carbonate faster when cold
• Refreshing Output: Cold sparkling water is more enjoyable
• Consistent Temperature: Maintains optimal carbonation conditions

Setup Photos

Sparkling Water Available on Tap

Tips

• Keep the refrigerator temperature around 35-40°F (2-4°C) for optimal carbonation
• Ensure good air circulation around the keg
• Consider a dedicated mini-fridge to provide flexiblity on where this can be located
• Condensation: The keg and system can sometimes accumulate condensation inside the refrigerator. Ensure your setup doesn’t mind getting a little damp on the bottom - this is normal and won’t affect the system’s operation

Next Steps

Review Best Practices for maintenance and troubleshooting tips.