Kegco Standard Kegerator Refrigerator Conversion Kit EBSCK-NT Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Kegco Standard Kegerator Refrigerator Conversion Kit, model EBSCK-NT. This kit is designed to transform a standard refrigerator or freezer into a functional draft beer dispenser. Please read all instructions carefully before beginning the installation process to ensure proper setup and safe operation.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Failure to follow these safety instructions may result in injury or property damage.

• Always handle CO2 cylinders with care. Ensure they are secured to prevent falling.
• Do not expose CO2 cylinders to excessive heat.
• Ensure all connections are tight to prevent CO2 leaks. Use a soapy water solution to check for leaks.
• Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when drilling or handling tools.
• This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Proposition 65 warning).

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components listed below are present in your kit:

• Dual Gauge Regulator: For monitoring and adjusting CO2 pressure.
• Lever Handle Keg Coupler: "D" System coupler for American Sankey kegs.
• Chrome Beer Faucet with Brass Lever: Dispensing faucet.
• Standard Metal Beer Faucet Wrench: Tool for tightening faucet connections.
• Beer Line and Air Line Hoses.
• Shank Assembly.

4. Setup and Installation

This section outlines the general steps for converting your refrigerator into a kegerator. Specific refrigerator modifications (e.g., drilling holes) are not covered in detail and may require additional research or professional assistance.

4.1. Preparing the Refrigerator

• Clear Space: Ensure the refrigerator is clean and has adequate space for the keg and CO2 tank.
• Drill Hole (if necessary): Determine the optimal location for the beer shank. Carefully drill a hole through the refrigerator wall, ensuring no internal components (e.g., cooling lines) are damaged. The hole should be sized to accommodate the beer shank.

4.2. Installing the Beer Faucet and Shank

• Insert the beer shank through the drilled hole from the outside of the refrigerator.
• Secure the shank with the provided washers and lock nut on the inside.
• Attach the chrome beer faucet to the shank on the outside. Use the faucet wrench to tighten the collar securely, but do not overtighten.

4.3. Connecting the Dual Gauge Regulator

• Ensure the CO2 tank valve is closed.
• Attach the dual gauge regulator to the CO2 tank. Hand-tighten first, then use a wrench to ensure a snug, leak-free connection.
• Connect the air line hose from the regulator's output barb to the keg coupler's gas inlet. Secure with a hose clamp.

4.4. Connecting the Lever Handle Keg Coupler

• Connect the beer line hose from the beer shank to the liquid outlet of the keg coupler. Secure with a hose clamp.
• Ensure the gas line from the regulator is connected to the gas inlet of the coupler.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Tapping a Keg

• Place the keg inside the refrigerator.
• Align the keg coupler with the keg valve.
• Push down on the coupler and rotate clockwise until it locks into place.
• Pull out and then push down the lever handle on the coupler to engage the keg.

5.2. Adjusting CO2 Pressure

• Slowly open the main valve on the CO2 tank.
• Observe the top gauge on the regulator, which indicates the output pressure (PSI).
• Turn the large pressure adjustment knob on the regulator to set the desired serving pressure, typically between 10-12 PSI for most beers.
• The side gauge indicates the remaining CO2 volume in your tank.

5.3. Dispensing Beer

• Ensure the beer faucet is closed.
• Place a glass under the faucet.
• Pull the faucet handle fully forward to open the valve completely. Do not partially open the faucet, as this can cause excessive foam.
• Fill the glass and then push the faucet handle fully back to close.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Cleaning the Beer Lines and Faucet

Regular cleaning of your beer lines and faucet is crucial for maintaining beer quality and preventing bacterial growth. It is recommended to clean lines every 2-3 weeks or between keg changes.

• Disconnect the keg coupler from the keg.
• Use a beer line cleaning kit (sold separately) with an appropriate cleaning solution.
• Disassemble the faucet and clean all components thoroughly with a brush and cleaning solution. Rinse well with water.

6.2. Checking for Leaks

Periodically check all connections for CO2 leaks, especially after assembly or changing a CO2 tank.

• Mix a solution of soapy water.
• Apply the solution to all gas connections (regulator to tank, air line to regulator, air line to coupler).
• Bubbles indicate a leak. Tighten the connection or replace the washer/O-ring as needed.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your kegerator conversion kit.

7.1. Excessive Foam

• Temperature: Ensure the beer is adequately chilled (typically 38-40°F or 3-4°C). Warm beer will foam excessively.
• Pressure: Verify the CO2 pressure is set correctly (10-12 PSI). Too high or too low pressure can cause foam.
• Faucet Operation: Always open the faucet completely when pouring. Partial opening can cause turbulence and foam.
• Line Length/Diameter: Ensure beer lines are of appropriate length and diameter for your system to provide proper resistance.

7.2. No Beer Dispensing

• CO2 Tank Empty: Check the side gauge on the regulator to see if the CO2 tank is empty.
• CO2 Valve Closed: Ensure the main valve on the CO2 tank is open.
• Coupler Not Engaged: Verify the keg coupler is fully engaged and the lever handle is pushed down.
• Clogged Line/Faucet: Clean the beer line and faucet for any obstructions.

7.3. CO2 Leaks

• Refer to Section 6.2 for instructions on how to check for and resolve leaks. Common leak points include the regulator-to-tank connection, hose clamps, and coupler seals.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1. Returns and Satisfaction

Your satisfaction is important. If you are not completely happy with your purchase, Kegco offers hassle-free returns within 90 days of receiving your order.

9.2. Customer Support

For questions regarding setup, operation, or any other inquiries, please contact Kegco customer support. Our knowledgeable team is available during regular business hours to provide timely and reliable assistance.

You can find contact information by visiting the official Kegco website or through your purchase platform.