So I got a free keg and after filling it up with PBW and cleaning it, it leaks. Does this mean I need to get new O-rings for it? Also where would be the cheapest place to get the rest of the stuff I need for kegging CO2 tank, regulator, hose, etc.? No experience with kegs at all.
Where is it leaking from? if from around the lid it is possible the problem is just that the lid is not seated properly. you kind of need a Co2 set up to check that though. It never hurts to replace the o-rings on a used keg that you don’t know how it was treated though.
In terms of getting the stuff you need check out kegconnection.com. They have good prices on alot of that stuff. For an actuall co2 tank I would decide if you are going to get it refilled or swap it out when empty. You can buy a tank from kegconnection or one of the other companies or you can probably go to where ever you are getting your gas and buy one there. The one you get at the gas place will be all beat up and dinged and not pretty but if you are goign to swap out anyway that’s what you are going to end up with
+1 to the gasket kit. They are cheap and you should replace them all. A kit comes with all 5 gaskets for about $5 and it takes you 5 minutes to change them out. Well worth it in my opinion. I bought a keg once that just reeked of sprite. Couldnt wash the scent out of the gaskets. With rootbeer, its even more noticeable. You dont want those flavors or smells in your beer.
As for the co2 tank, I’d start to check out craigs list. You’re bound to find one there. Another good place to find a less expensive tank is a used restaurant supply store. The regulators can be found on craigs list too but Ive never really seen a good deal on a regulator. They all come in around the $70-$80 range.
Good luck, man. Once you start kegging, you’ll never look back!
Keg lube or petro gel is another must. Lubing your gaskets help seal the lid and eases connecting and disconnecting QD’s.
+1 to new gaskets and some lube.
Also, make sure the popets are seated properly if you removed them and don’t overtighten when you replace the posts. Recently, I had a couple used kegs that I couldn’t get to seal after my first cleaning as well. I dedided to try breaking them down and putting them back together being really careful with the popets and the posts. Charged them with some CO2 over a month ago and they’re still holding tight just fine. Ready to lager some nice Cali Common!