Used Bar Equipment Buying Guide

What used bar equipment costs

Used bar equipment runs a median of $625, with most units selling between $154 and $2,322 — roughly 40–70% below new. The full live spread is $45 to $5,300 depending on type, age, capacity and condition. See the Bar Equipment price guide for the by-type and by-metro breakdown.

Types of bar equipment

“Bar Equipment” covers several distinct machines — they aren’t interchangeable, and prices vary a lot by type:

• Kegerators & draft — median $3,022

What to inspect before you buy

Back-bar coolers, kegerators, and underbar gear move fast used. Confirm cooling performance, check draft lines and faucets for buildup, and make sure CO2 and regulators (if included) hold pressure.

Whatever the type, the universal checklist: run it and confirm it holds temp or heats, inspect for rust, cracks, and weld failures, check gaskets/seals and electrical or gas connections, and verify the voltage/phase matches your space (many commercial units are 208–240V or 3-phase). Ask why it’s being sold and whether it was in daily service.

New vs. used — when used wins

Stainless fabrication (tables, sinks, shelving, hoods) and simple gas cooking equipment are near-indestructible — buy these used almost every time. Be more careful with refrigeration and ice machines, where a tired compressor is the expensive failure: inspect, run, and budget a deep clean. Electronics-heavy or warranty-sensitive gear is the one case where new can pay off.