Raise Your Glass with NKBA Member Brands That Deliver Craft-Level Cool.
By Nicholas Tamarin
The first Friday in August marks International Beer Day, and whether you’re a fan of lagers, IPAs, sours, or stouts, there’s no better way to celebrate than with the right outdoor setup. For homeowners and design pros alike, the trend of bringing beverage service outside is booming—and NKBA member brands are leading the charge with purpose-built, high-performance beer refrigeration and tap systems that make entertaining effortless.
Cheers to Smarter Outdoor Design
Whether you’re designing for yourself or a client, these outdoor beer appliances offer more than just cold storage—they offer an experience. From professional-grade beer dispensers to versatile beverage drawers and bar centers, International Beer Day is the perfect time to rethink your alfresco entertaining space—and raise your standards along with your glass. Here’s your curated guide to the best outdoor beer refrigerators, taps, and appliances that will keep your brews cold, your backyard buzzing, and your style on point.
1. True Residential 24” Dual Tap Beverage Dispenser
Built for commercial performance but designed for luxury residential spaces, True Residential’s outdoor-rated kegerator features dual taps, a bold stainless steel body, and industry-best cooling. It’s designed to hold half-barrel, quarter-barrel, or sixth-barrel kegs, giving homeowners the flexibility to pour craft or home-brewed favorites.
2. Perlick 24” Signature Series Outdoor Beer Dispenser
Perlick’s commercial roots are clear in this outdoor-rated unit that features a stainless-steel interior and exterior, zero-clearance hinging, and a variable-speed compressor for quiet, consistent cooling. Available in single- or dual-faucet versions, this unit can even be installed flush with cabinetry for a fully integrated look.
3. Kalamazoo Outdoor Keg Tapper
Designed to perform through all four seasons, Kalamazoo’s Keg Tapper is made with marine-grade stainless steel, ideal for coastal or humid climates. Engineered for both built-in or freestanding applications, this keg system includes digital temperature control, tap tower cooling, and a UV-coated, triple-insulated door.
4. Signature Kitchen Suite Undercounter Convertible Refrigerator/Freezer Drawers
While not a dedicated beer tapper, SKS’s outdoor-rated drawer refrigerator/freezer is ideal for chilling beer cans, bottles, and glasses to precise temperatures. With WiFi connectivity, six temperature modes, and soft-close drawers, it’s a flexible addition to any outdoor bar setup.
5. U-Line 24” Outdoor Beverage Center
For those who want more variety than just beer on tap, U-Line’s outdoor beverage center is a multi-functional powerhouse. It features five chrome racks, a digital touch pad control, and LED lighting—all packed into a weather-resistant body that fits undercounter.
6. Hestan Outdoor Beer Dispenser
Hestan brings its signature style and serious performance to the beer game with a single- or dual-tap outdoor kegerator. Made in the USA, this unit is crafted from heavy-gauge stainless steel and available in Hestan’s signature color options like Citra, Prince, and Stealth.
7. Lynx Professional Outdoor Refrigerator and Cocktail Station
While Lynx doesn’t offer a tap system, its outdoor cocktail station and refrigerators are ideal complements to any beer tap setup. The bar center includes an insulated ice bin, speed rails, bottle holders, cutting board, and a bottle opener—all with Lynx’s signature professional-grade build.
Backyard Brewer’s Checklist: Key Features to Look For
- Outdoor Rating: Ensure the unit is UL- or ETL-listed for outdoor use.
- Temperature Consistency: Look for variable-speed compressors and front ventilation.
- Tap Capacity: Single vs. dual faucets—consider your keg size and desired variety.
- Durability: Opt for stainless steel or marine-grade finishes to resist weather and wear.
- Design Flexibility: Panel-ready or customizable finishes allow integration into your outdoor kitchen aesthetic.
Explore More
Discover more innovations from NKBA member brands at nkba.org, where kitchen and bath excellence meets everyday enjoyment.
