Author: Henry Chen Publish Time: 2025-09-29 Origin: CASSMAN BEER BREWING EQUIPMENT
This is probably one of the most common questions I get from aspiring brewery owners. After 20 years in the brewing equipment business and working with over 500 breweries worldwide, I've seen every possible scenario when it comes to used equipment – the good, the bad, and the downright ugly.
Let me give you the honest answer: Yes, you can absolutely use used brewing equipment to start your brewery. But – and this is a big but – you need to know what you're doing.
I get it. Starting a brewery is expensive, and when you see a used 10-barrel system for $150,000 instead of $300,000 for new equipment, it's tempting. Really tempting. I've had countless conversations with brewery owners who thought they'd found the deal of the century.
The math seems simple: save 40-60% on equipment costs and put that money toward other startup expenses. In theory, it makes perfect sense. In reality? Well, that's where my two decades of experience come in handy.
Before I scare you off completely, let me share some wins I've witnessed. Three years ago, I helped a client in Colorado evaluate a used 7-barrel system from a brewery that was upgrading. The original brewery had maintained it well, provided complete maintenance records, and the equipment was only four years old.
We did a thorough inspection, replaced some gaskets and valves, and that brewery is now producing award-winning beer. Total investment in refurbishment? About $15,000. Total savings compared to new? Around $120,000.
Another client in Texas bought a complete brewhouse from a brewery that had unfortunately gone out of business. The equipment was barely two years old, and we were able to verify its condition and history. They're now one of the most successful craft breweries in their region.
But for every success story, I've got two cautionary tales. Last year, a potential client called me in a panic. They'd bought what looked like a great deal on a 15-barrel system online. No inspection, no maintenance records, just photos and a price that seemed too good to pass up.
When the equipment arrived, we discovered:
Severe pitting in the mash tun from improper cleaning
A heat exchanger that was beyond repair
Fermentation tanks with stress cracks
Missing control panels and automation components
What started as a $180,000 "bargain" ended up costing over $280,000 to make operational. They would have been better off buying new equipment from us or any reputable manufacturer.
Rule #1: Never buy sight unseen
I cannot stress this enough. I've seen too many disasters from people buying equipment based on photos alone. If you can't physically inspect it or have a professional do it, walk away.
Rule #2: Maintenance records are everything
A brewery that kept detailed maintenance records usually took care of their equipment. No records? That's a red flag the size of Texas.
Rule #3: Know why they're selling
Upgrading to larger equipment? Good sign. Going out of business due to equipment problems? Run.
Rule #4: Factor in refurbishment costs
Even good used equipment will need some work. Budget at least 15-25% of the purchase price for getting it brewery-ready.
After inspecting hundreds of used brewing systems, here's what I always check:
Stainless steel condition:
Any pitting, especially in heat-affected zones
Weld quality and integrity
Surface finish (rough surfaces harbor bacteria)
Mechanical components:
Pump conditions and seal integrity
Valve operation and gasket condition
Motor and drive conditions
Process control systems:
Are all components included?
Software compatibility with current systems
Sensor and probe conditions
Heat exchangers:
Internal condition (often the most expensive to replace)
Gasket and plate condition
Pressure test results
Here's where used equipment can bite you. Even when the equipment itself is solid, you've got:
Transportation costs: Moving a brewhouse isn't cheap. I've seen shipping costs run $20,000-$50,000 depending on distance and complexity.
Installation complexity: Used equipment rarely fits perfectly in your new space. Modifications and custom work add up fast.
Missing pieces: It's amazing how often small but critical components go missing during disassembly. Those $200 sensors and $500 control modules add up quickly.
Warranty concerns: Most used equipment comes with zero warranty. When something breaks, you're on your own.
I'm not trying to scare everyone away from used equipment. There are definitely situations where it's the right choice:
You have brewing equipment experience: If you or someone on your team really understands brewing systems, you can better evaluate condition and potential issues.
The seller is upgrading, not closing: Breweries that are growing and upgrading usually maintained their equipment well.
You can inspect thoroughly: Either you have the expertise or you hire someone who does (like our team at Cassman).
You have contingency budget: Don't spend every penny on the used equipment. Keep 20-30% in reserve for unexpected issues.
The equipment is relatively new: Generally, I'm more comfortable with equipment under 5 years old from reputable manufacturers.
Sometimes the math favors new equipment, even though the upfront cost is higher:
You're new to brewing: The learning curve is steep enough without adding equipment uncertainties.
Financing is available: Many equipment manufacturers (including us at Cassman) offer financing options that can make new equipment affordable.
You need specific configurations: Used equipment might not match your space or production needs.
Long-term thinking: New equipment typically lasts 15-20 years with proper maintenance. The annual cost difference might be smaller than you think.
After helping 500+ breweries get started, here's my practical advice:
For nano breweries (1-3 barrels): Used equipment can work well if you're handy and have limited budget. The systems are simpler, and mistakes are less costly.
For small craft breweries (7-15 barrels): This is where it gets tricky. The equipment is complex enough that problems get expensive, but the savings can be significant. Proceed with extreme caution.
For larger operations (15+ barrels): I usually recommend new equipment. The complexity and cost of fixing problems often outweigh the initial savings.
Look, I'm in the business of manufacturing new brewing equipment, so you might think I'd always steer you toward new systems. But honestly, I've helped clients evaluate used equipment many times. Sometimes it's the right choice, sometimes it isn't.
What matters to me is that you succeed. A brewery that fails because of equipment problems doesn't help anyone – not you, not the industry, and certainly not us.
If you're considering used equipment, I'm happy to help you evaluate it. We offer inspection services because I'd rather help you make a smart decision than sell you new equipment you can't afford.
Can you use used brewing equipment to start your brewery? Absolutely. Should you? It depends on your situation, expertise, and risk tolerance.
The key is going into it with eyes wide open. Budget for refurbishment, inspect everything thoroughly, and have a backup plan if things don't work out as expected.
Remember, your brewing equipment is the heart of your operation. Whether it's used or new, it needs to be reliable, sanitary, and capable of producing consistent, quality beer. Don't let the desire to save money upfront compromise your long-term success.
Thinking about used brewing equipment for your brewery? We're here to help you evaluate your options and make the best decision for your situation. Contact us at Jinan Cassman Machinery Co., Ltd. – we've been helping brewers worldwide since 2004, and we want to see you succeed.
