Introduction
Brewing great beer is an art—but running a successful brewery is also a business. Every penny saved on equipment is a penny that can go back into better ingredients, marketing, or expansion. That’s why many breweries are asking: Are cheap used beer kegs worth it?
The short answer is yes. Choosing cheap used beer kegs can cut costs dramatically while still giving you the same durability and performance you’d expect from brand-new kegs. The secret lies in knowing what to look for and how to make those used kegs work for you.
Why Cheap Used Beer Kegs Deliver Real Value
Affordable Pricing That Adds Up
Think of kegs as your brewery’s workhorses. A new stainless-steel keg can cost €90–€120, depending on size and supplier. Now imagine you need 200 kegs. That’s up to €25,000 tied up in stainless steel alone.
With cheap used beer kegs, that cost could be nearly cut in half. Refurbished kegs often sell for €35–€60, meaning the same order might cost closer to €5,000–€8,000. That’s a savings big enough to fund a new marketing campaign—or a new fermentation tank.
Quality That Holds Up Over Time
A keg isn’t a single-use container. These tanks are built to last 30 years or more, making them one of the most durable assets in the brewing industry. With the right refurbishing—pressure testing, cleaning, and fresh seals—cheap used beer kegs can perform just as reliably as brand-new ones.
And here’s the fun part: every used keg has a story. That shiny barrel might have traveled across state lines, poured pints at festivals, or survived countless taproom nights. Refurbishing gives it a new chapter—this time with your brewery’s name on it.
How to Ensure Quality When Buying Cheap Used Beer Kegs
Inspect the Details
A quick glance tells you a lot. Look for dents, warped lids, or bent chimes. A keg that doesn’t sit flat on the floor is a headache waiting to happen.
Ask for Pressure Testing
Most reputable suppliers test their kegs with CO₂ before resale. If not, bring your own CO₂ tank and do a quick check yourself. A keg that can’t hold pressure isn’t a bargain—it’s dead weight.
Replace the O-Rings—Always
Even if a keg looks spotless, swap the seals. O-rings are cheap, easy to replace, and guarantee freshness. It’s like putting new tires on a used car—suddenly it drives like new.
The Hidden Benefits of Cheap Used Beer Kegs
Faster Availability
New kegs often come with long lead times, especially if they’re imported. Used kegs are typically in stock, tested, and ready to ship. That means you can scale your keg fleet faster without waiting months.
Eco-Friendly Choice
Reusing kegs reduces waste and cuts down on emissions from manufacturing new stainless steel. In an industry where sustainability matters, promoting your use of cheap used beer kegs is a great PR move. Customers love knowing their favorite brewery cares about the planet.
Room to Experiment
Want to test a new seasonal beer on tap? Grab a few cheap used kegs without making a huge financial commitment. If the experiment works, great—you’ve saved money. If not, you haven’t tied up capital in pricey new kegs.
Benefits at a Glance
| Advantage | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Cost Savings | Huge savings per keg—add up fast |
| Reliability | With testing and seals, they last like new |
| Sustainability | Extends keg lifespan, reduces carbon footprint |
| Quick Availability | In stock, faster than ordering new |
| Flexibility | Perfect for pilot brews, festivals, and events |
Conclusion
For breweries looking to save money while staying efficient and eco-friendly, cheap used beer kegs are a no-brainer. They’re tough, reliable, and, when inspected properly, every bit as functional as new.
Think of it this way: would you rather spend double the money for a keg that does the same job—or invest those savings into your recipes, your taproom, or your brand? With smart buying habits, you don’t have to choose between cheap and quality—you can have both.
So next time you’re expanding your keg fleet, skip the shiny “brand-new” price tag. Give a seasoned keg a second life—and let it carry your beer to the people who love it.
FAQs (Voice Search–Optimized)
Are cheap used beer kegs safe to use?
Yes, as long as they are pressure-tested and cleaned before resale.
How much do cheap used beer kegs cost?
They typically range from €35 to €60, compared to €100+ for new kegs.
Can cheap used beer kegs last as long as new ones?
Yes. With new seals and proper care, stainless steel kegs last 30 years or more.
What should I check before buying cheap used beer kegs?
Inspect the body, test pressure, and replace O-rings to ensure quality.
