Kegerator vs. mini fridge: running cost
A mini fridge is cheaper to run: about $49 a year versus $63 for a kegerator at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $14 difference.
| Kegerator | Mini fridge | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 100 W | 80 W |
| Watt range | 70–150 W | 50–120 W |
| Typical use | 350 kWh a year | 270 kWh a year |
| Energy per year | 350 kWh | 270 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 0.7¢ | 0.6¢ |
| Cost per day | 17¢ | 13¢ |
| Cost per month | $5.25 | $4.05 |
| Cost per year | $63 | $49 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $152 | $117 |
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What drives the difference
- Kegerator: A full-size kegerator holding a half-barrel keg at 36-38°F typically uses 300-450 kWh a year, similar to a large compact fridge.
- Mini fridge: Compact refrigerators of 1.7-4.5 cu ft use roughly 200-350 kWh a year; ENERGY STAR models sit near the low end. Small skincare/thermoelectric 4-6 liter coolers are separate and draw about 40-60 W constantly.
Ways to cut either cost
ENERGY STAR compact models use at least 10% less than the federal minimum and many are under 250 kWh a year.
See options on AmazonReduces heat gain through the draft tower so the compressor runs less.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a kegerator or a mini fridge?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a kegerator costs about $63 a year versus $49 for a mini fridge. That's $14 more, or 1.3× as much.
How many watts do kegerator and mini fridge use?
A kegerator typically draws 100 W (range 70–150 W). A mini fridge draws 80 W (range 50–120 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.