Kegerator/Keezer Chest Freezer

This post is part of a collection of brewing equipment purchases describing what, where, why, and when of brew gear I believe will provide value, enjoyment, or increased efficiency in my brewing processes.

What:

Kenmore 8.8 cu ft chest freezer – Model 16949 (black, preferred) or 16942 (white)

Where:

• Kmart (white or black); regular price $299.99 ($319.99 black), seen with some regularity for sale at $229.99 and can be had for $204.99 with in-store pickup using code 25OFF125.
• Sears (white or black); regular price $411.99.

Why:

This keg layout diagram indicating six to seven ball lock/pin lock kegs plus a CO2 tank (with a 7″ collar), in combination with the small footprint that fits neatly in the space between my foyer, living room, and kitchen.  I’m sure there are some other models that offer similarly good layouts but I haven’t run across them yet.  Black is preferred because it’s a good aesthetic fit with the rest of my appliances, though it’s possible I will build a facade for it in any case.  I like Kenmore, and the value for the space is hard to beat at the right price.

When:

I’m not very likely to just drop $200 without a game plan, so I need a good reason and an achieved savings goal or a windfall before this one becomes likely.  Reason is simple to come up with for this one, though it does require some follow-through on my part:  the potential for low-cost/barter use of half a dozen or more kegs.  There’s not an immediate urgency, though; while it would be nice to have a half a dozen varieties on tap, I could get by with one or two on a picnic tap in my spare refrigerator while I save my pennies.  Not to mention the time and additional expense to fully outfit the box with a collar, thermostat, CO2 manifold, lines, faucets, and all manner of accouterments.  That said, if that historic low price comes around again, I might be able to put a deep freeze to use in the interim.

Update:  This went on sale at $229.99 on 12/24/2013, and I was able to use a coupon code for an additional $25 off that price, plus will get back around $7 in KMart/Sears reward points and 5% on my credit card promotion.

Price History:

These prices reflect bottom dollar including any known or reported applicable coupon codes.

1. 11/28/2013, Kmart, $249.99
2. 11/17/2013, Kmart, $204.99 ($229.99 plus coupon)
3. 11/7/2013, Kmart, $204.99 ($229.99 plus coupon)
4. 8/26/2013, Kmart, $206.99 ($229.99 plus coupon)
5. 7/15/2013, Kmart, $204.99 ($229.99 plus coupon)
6. 12/23/2013, Kmart, $204.99 ($229.99 plus coupon) – purchased!

See Also’s:

Other purchases that come into consideration to take maximum advantage of the benefits of this item.