Kegerator supplies

I just bought a used True Direct Draw-1 kegerator on Craigslist. I ended up ordering supplies (new lines, cleaning kit, new Perlick faucet, CO2 tank) on -ine, and I plan on picking up any miscellaneous parts at Clark & Devon Hardware. I eventually want to get a second faucet, since the TDD-1 can accommodate 2 slim quarter-barrels. For now, any recommendations on where to buy kegs or get a CO2 tank refiled in the Rogers Park/Evanston area? Several folks have recommended Binnys, but the closest one is way west in Skokie. I' love to start off with something local on tap (e.g., Metropolitan). Any ideas or recommendations?

Get CO2 refilled at Suburban Carbonic 773 472 6468
2944 N Leavitt 10am-3pm saturdays (only day/ hours I can make it there)

I suggest you have a total of 3 gas cylinders: 2 active and 1 spare. I have only 1 tap and have 2 cylinders.

Kegs are pretty much Binnys. You have to special order/ call ahead anything not mass produced domestic and even some of those (Michelob Ultra). I have tried to get some 3 Floyds but they do no sell to public even through distributors but only to commercial (bars etc.).

As the above poster said, NFC Carbonic is the great if you live on the north side: http://www.nfccompany.com/

Not sure why you would need more than one thank tho. Maybe a spare if you are really worried about running out. Personally I have a 5lb tank and a 20lb tank, but I use them for kegging homebrew and often need a tank outside of my refrigerator. I would say buy the biggest tank that will fit inside your kegerator and be done with it. Then keep your eyes peeled on craigslist if you want a second tank. I got my 20lb tank for 25$.

I have run out of CO2 during a party...hence the need for 2!

I've had a Cornelius (5 gallon soda keg) of Half Acre in the kegerator lately, alternating between their Lager and the Open Ale. I run the lager at 14 psi and the Open Ale around 11. You can pick them up (as well as ponies and maybe half barrels) at the Half Acre store at 4257 N. Lincoln Ave. I've found they usually have the lager, ale, and Daisy Cutter IPA in stock, ready to go. I think it's $50 for a Cornelius.

I know some of the local brewpubs sell kegs of their brews.

They are usually 5 gallon, 1/6th barrel kegs with a standard keg coupler. A few of the brewpubs may still be using the older twin-probe (aka Hoff Stevens) kegs. They don't fit as nicely in the fridge and require a different coupler but draft supply places can provide the necessary hardware if you need it.

The best I can say would be to call a place you're interested in.

For microbrewery beers, not every place will sell to the consumer (three tier laws and such) so you'd have to go through a liquor store. Binny's carries a selection if you call ahead but I also know of smaller stores in my area that carry craft beer and will order a keg given enough notice. I'm not sure what smaller liquor stores are in your area though. Again, the best I could suggest for a microbrewery (e.g. Half Acre or Metropolitan) would be to call or email them.

I called Half Acre, and they regularly have kegs in stock for $145 and sixtels for $50. No deposit either - on the honor system.

I haven't been able to find a working phone number for Metropolitan in Ravenswood - has anyone bought a keg directly from them?

Another nearby CO source - http://www.citywelding.com/

Dave148 wrote:Another nearby CO source - http://www.citywelding.com/

Might not be an issue really at this point in time but at one point there was a difference between "food grade" co2 and the co2 used for welding. I would definitely ask them before using it for beer.

I ended up getting our tank filled at Evanston First Liquors. $20 for a 5lb tank, and they're open late.

1019 Davis St
(between Maple Ave & Oak Ave)
Evanston, IL 60201
(847) 328-9651

jman wrote:Get CO2 refilled at Suburban Carbonic 773 472 6468
2944 N Leavitt 10am-3pm saturdays (only day/ hours I can make it there)

I suggest you have a total of 3 gas cylinders: 2 active and 1 spare. I have only 1 tap and have 2 cylinders.

Kegs are pretty much Binnys. You have to special order/ call ahead anything not mass produced domestic and even some of those (Michelob Ultra). I have tried to get some 3 Floyds but they do no sell to public even through distributors but only to commercial (bars etc.).

You can purchase Three Floyd's 1/2 barrels at package stores in Indiana. It's a special order, so give the retailer three days or so.
Liquor Stop in Highland
Delocks in Munster might stock a couple.

Thanks for the 3 Floyed's info. I will have to check that out. I just got a new keg for NYE and it will take a while before I need a new one.