Kegerator Tap Tower Compatibility: What to Match

Why tower compatibility matters

The tap tower is the part of a kegerator that rises from the cabinet top and holds the faucets. When you shop for a replacement tower, the listing will describe the tower's own dimensions and features, but the real question is whether that tower will fit the kegerator you already have. A tower that looks right in the photo may not line up with the holes on your cabinet.

Compatibility comes down to three measurements: the spacing between the holes in the cabinet top, the size of the shank that passes through those holes, and the mounting pattern that secures the tower to the cabinet. Each of these is a stated detail on a good listing. If a listing does not state them, treat the tower as unverified for your cabinet.

Hole spacing on the cabinet top

The cabinet top of a kegerator has one or more holes where the tower's shanks pass through. The distance between those holes is the hole spacing. A single tap tower uses one hole; a dual tap tower uses two holes; a triple tap tower uses three. The spacing is measured center to center, and it must match the tower you buy.

Listings usually state the hole spacing in inches, for example a dual tap tower that fits a 2 inch spacing. If the listing only says the number of taps, it does not tell you the spacing. Compare the stated spacing on the tower listing with the spacing on your kegerator's spec sheet. When the numbers match, the tower will sit correctly on the cabinet.

Shank size and tower holes

The shank is the metal tube that connects the faucet to the beer line inside the tower. The shank diameter must fit the hole in the cabinet top. A common size on listings is 1 inch, but other sizes exist. The tower listing will state the shank size, and the cabinet hole size is usually in the kegerator's spec sheet.

If the shank is too small, the tower will wobble; if it is too large, it will not pass through the hole. Some towers include a gasket or collar that adapts the shank to a slightly larger hole. Read the listing to see what is included. When the listing does not state the shank size, you cannot confirm the fit.

Mounting pattern and bolts

The mounting pattern is the arrangement of bolts or screws that hold the tower to the cabinet. It is usually a set of holes on the tower base that align with holes on the cabinet top. The pattern is described by the distance between the bolts, for example a 4 inch by 4 inch pattern, or by the number of bolts and their positions.

A tower with a different mounting pattern will not secure properly. Some towers come with an adapter plate that converts the pattern, but that plate must be listed. If the listing does not mention an adapter, assume the pattern must match exactly. The kegerator's spec sheet should state the mounting pattern; if it does not, ask the seller before buying.

What to read in a tower listing

When you compare towers, read the bullet list for the three compatibility details: hole spacing, shank size, and mounting pattern. Also check the number of taps, the tower height, and the material, since those affect how the tower looks and fits under a cabinet. The tower height matters if the kegerator sits under a counter.

A listing that states all three compatibility details is easier to match than one that only says the number of taps. If a detail is missing, the seller may have left it out because it is not standardized. You can still buy the tower, but you will need to verify the fit with the seller or with the kegerator's manual.

Matching taps to your kegerator

The number of taps on the tower must match the number of beer lines in the kegerator. A dual tap tower needs two lines; a triple tap tower needs three. The kegerator listing will state how many taps it supports, and the tower listing will state how many faucets it holds. These numbers must agree.

If you want more taps than the kegerator currently has, you need a kegerator that supports that number of lines. The cabinet width and the internal space affect how many kegs you can fit, which in turn limits the number of taps. For example, a wider cabinet may hold two kegs and support a dual tap tower. Read the kegerator's stated tap count and keg capacity before choosing a tower.

Common pitfalls when buying a tower

One common mistake is buying a tower with the right number of taps but the wrong hole spacing. Another is assuming that all towers from the same maker fit all kegerators from that maker. Makers often use different patterns across model lines, so always compare the stated details.

A third pitfall is ignoring the mounting pattern when the tower base looks similar. The base may have the same footprint but different bolt positions. Finally, do not assume that a tower includes the shanks, faucets, or lines. Read the box contents in the listing to see what is included versus sold separately.

What to pick for your situation

For a first kegerator, choose a model that lists the tower details clearly, so you know what you are getting. For a replacement tower, match the three compatibility details exactly. If you are unsure, pick a tower that includes an adapter plate or a gasket kit, as long as the listing states it.

The guides on this site compare kegerators on stated details, including the number of taps and the cabinet width. Use them to narrow down models that fit your space and your tap count. Then check the tower compatibility details on the specific listing before you buy.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

What does hole spacing mean on a tower listing?

Hole spacing is the distance between the holes in the cabinet top where the tower's shanks pass through. It is measured center to center and must match the tower you buy.

What is a shank on a kegerator tower?

A shank is the metal tube that connects the faucet to the beer line. Its diameter must fit the hole in the cabinet top.

What is a mounting pattern?

The mounting pattern is the arrangement of bolts or screws that hold the tower to the cabinet. It must match the holes on the cabinet top.

Can I use an adapter plate to fit a different tower?

Some towers include an adapter plate that converts the mounting pattern. If the listing states it, you can use it; otherwise, assume the pattern must match exactly.

Do all towers from the same maker fit all kegerators from that maker?

No. Makers often use different patterns across model lines. Always compare the stated hole spacing, shank size, and mounting pattern.

What if the listing does not state the compatibility details?

If the hole spacing, shank size, or mounting pattern is missing, you cannot confirm the fit. Ask the seller or choose a tower that includes an adapter plate.