Kegco Kegerator HK38SSC-L-1 Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and efficient operation, installation, and maintenance of your Kegco HK38SSC-L-1 Kegerator. Please read all instructions carefully before use and retain this manual for future reference.

The Kegco HK38SSC-L-1 is a 24-inch wide single tap stainless steel commercial beer dispenser designed for both built-in and freestanding applications. It features powerful cooling, digital temperature control, and a commercial-grade draft dispense system.

Safety Information

Important Safety Instructions:

• Read all instructions before using the appliance.
• Do not operate the appliance with a damaged cord or plug.
• Ensure proper grounding for electrical safety.
• Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions.
• Do not store explosive substances such as aerosol cans with a flammable propellant in this appliance.
• Unplug the appliance before cleaning or performing maintenance.
• This appliance is intended for dispensing beverages only.
• CO2 cylinders must be handled with care. Store in a well-ventilated area.

Product Overview

The Kegco HK38SSC-L-1 Kegerator is a robust beverage dispensing unit. Key features include:

• Stainless Steel Exterior: Durable and suitable for outdoor commercial use.
• Digital Temperature Control: Allows precise temperature adjustments between 32°F and 59°F.
• Forced Air Refrigeration: Ensures even cooling throughout the cabinet and into the draft tower.
• Commercial Grade Dispense Kit: Includes a 14-inch stainless steel draft tower, Perlick 630SS faucet, commercial CO2 regulator, and D-system keg coupler.
• Convertible Interior: Can hold various keg sizes or be converted into a refrigerator with included shelves.

Image: Front view of the Kegco HK38SSC-L-1 Kegerator, showcasing its stainless steel finish, single tap tower, and top guard rail.

Image: An infographic highlighting special features such as the stainless steel interior, forward-sealing Perlick faucets, choice of towel bar or curved handle, locking stainless steel door, and easy-roll casters.

Setup Instructions

1. Unpacking and Placement

• Carefully remove all packaging materials.
• Allow the unit to stand upright for at least 24 hours before plugging it in to allow compressor oils to settle.
• Choose a location that is well-ventilated and away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• The unit can be used freestanding or built-in under a counter. Ensure adequate clearance for ventilation (front-venting design).

2. Handle and Caster/Feet Installation

• Attach the desired door handle (towel bar or curved) using the provided screws.
• For freestanding use, attach the casters to the bottom of the unit. For built-in use, install the fixed leveling feet.

3. Draft System Assembly

Image: A visual representation of the commercial-grade dispense kit, showing the 14-inch stainless steel tower, commercial grade regulator, corrosion-resistant CO2 tank, and NSF approved commercial keg coupler.

1. CO2 Tank and Regulator:
   • Securely attach the commercial-grade CO2 regulator to the 5 lb. CO2 tank.
   • Ensure all connections are tight to prevent leaks.
   • Place the CO2 tank inside the kegerator or in an external, well-ventilated location if using a remote setup.
2. Keg Coupler:
   • Connect the gas line from the regulator to the gas inlet on the keg coupler.
   • Connect the beer line from the draft tower to the beer outlet on the keg coupler.
   • Ensure the NSF approved commercial keg coupler is properly assembled.
3. Draft Tower and Faucet:
   • Mount the 14-inch polished stainless steel draft tower to the top of the kegerator.
   • Attach the Perlick 630SS faucet to the draft tower. Ensure the faucet is securely tightened.
   • The Perlick faucet features a forward-sealing design to prevent sticking and ensure sanitary beer contact.

Image: A detailed view of a low profile elbow fitting, useful for tight clearance situations to prevent kinks in hoses.

4. Keg Loading and Connection

• Place the keg(s) inside the kegerator. Refer to the capacity section for compatible keg sizes.
• Attach the keg coupler to the keg by aligning the coupler with the keg valve and pushing down, then rotating clockwise until it locks into place.
• Open the CO2 tank valve and set the regulator pressure to the desired PSI (typically 10-12 PSI for beer).

Operating Instructions

1. Digital Temperature Control

Image: The digital control panel displaying the temperature setting (32°F), along with icons for digital display, defrost function, Celsius/Fahrenheit switch, and interior light. The wide temperature range of 32-59°F is suitable for beer, soda, coffee, kombucha, and wine.

• The control panel is located at the front of the cabinet.
• Use the up/down arrows to adjust the desired temperature between 32°F and 59°F.
• Press the °C/°F button to switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit.
• Press the light button to turn the interior LED light on or off.
• The unit features forced air refrigeration, directing cold air into the beer tower to keep lines cool and reduce foam.

Image: An illustration demonstrating how cold air is directed into the beer tower, ensuring lines are cool up to the faucet, which helps in reducing foam during pours.

2. Dispensing Beverages

• Ensure the keg is properly chilled to the desired temperature.
• Confirm the CO2 pressure is set correctly for the beverage being dispensed.
• Pull the faucet handle forward to dispense. Push back to close.
• For optimal pour, ensure the glass is tilted and filled slowly.

3. Converting to Refrigerator

• Remove the keg(s) and disconnect the draft system components.
• Insert the two adjustable wire shelves into the cabinet.
• The shelves can be adjusted in 1/2-inch increments to accommodate various items.
• The unit can then be used for general cold storage.

Image: The Kegco Kegerator interior with two adjustable wire shelves installed, demonstrating its conversion capability into a standard beverage refrigerator.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning the Unit

• Exterior: Wipe down the stainless steel exterior with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Interior: Clean the interior with a solution of mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• Drip Tray: Regularly empty and clean the drip tray to prevent spills and odors.

2. Cleaning the Draft Lines and Faucet

• Regular cleaning of beer lines and faucets is crucial for taste and hygiene.
• Disconnect the keg coupler and faucet.
• Use a specialized beer line cleaning solution and a cleaning kit (not included) to flush the lines.
• Disassemble and clean the Perlick faucet thoroughly. The forward-sealing design minimizes beer residue, but regular cleaning is still necessary.

Image: An exploded view of a Perlick forward-sealing faucet, highlighting its revolutionary floating O-ring design that prevents sticking and ensures beer only touches sanitary stainless steel components.

3. CO2 Tank Replacement

• Monitor the low-pressure gauge on the regulator to determine when the CO2 tank is nearing empty.
• Turn off the CO2 tank valve before disconnecting.
• Replace with a full 5 lb. CO2 tank and re-attach the regulator, ensuring a tight seal.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Image: Detailed dimensional drawing of the Kegco HK38SSC-L-1 Kegerator, including height, width, depth, and tower height. It also specifies a cubic footage of 6.6 and an empty weight of 115 lbs.

Image: A visual guide to the keg capacity of the HK38 Kegerator, illustrating that it can hold one 15.5-gallon keg, one 7.75-gallon keg, two 7.75-gallon quarter slim kegs, or three 5-gallon kegs.

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Kegco website. Our knowledgeable team is available to assist with setup, troubleshooting, and parts inquiries.

You can also contact customer support via the Kegco Store on Amazon.