The Benefits of an Under the Cabinet Wine Fridge
Wine refrigerators are a stylish and practical way to store your wine at the ideal temperature. They are available as built-in and standalone models.
When looking for a brand new wine fridge, there are many aspects to take into consideration, including aesthetics and design along with interior layout, cooling system energy efficiency, brand reputation and warranty.
Size and Capacity
A built-in wine refrigerator can be fitted into a cabinet, and can be recessed into the kitchen space. They vent out the rear to prevent overheating. This means they require more space than freestanding models for adequate ventilation. They can also be more expensive than a freestanding wine refrigerator due to their increased capacity and features.
If you're planning to install an under-counter wine cooler it's recommended to speak with a professional installer. They will ensure a safe and secure installation in your cabinetry and ensure that electrical connections are properly made. They also have the tools and expertise to prevent damage or vibration that could impact your wine's quality.
Built-in units are a great alternative for kitchens that are limited in space because they require less space than freestanding units. They can also be recessed into cabinets to give your home's design a sleek and elegant appearance. These units are larger than the freestanding wine fridges and are perfect for serious collectors or those who wish to age their wine for a long time.
Some models come with slides-out shelves that make it easier to access bottles at the bottom of the racks. Wire racks are available in other models that offer the traditional look of storage and can be adjusted to accommodate various sizes of bottles. Wooden cradles offer a vintage style while securely securing bottles to stop them from spills and rolling.
A dual zone wine refrigerator allows you to store both red and white wines at different temperatures, which is great for those who love a variety of beverages. Digital temperature controls and LED lighting permit easy monitoring and customization of your wine storage. Certain models guard your wine from harmful UV rays that could cause premature aging.
Space Considerations
If you're planning to purchase a freestanding wine fridge to place it under your counter, make sure the door can open up fully to allow you access to everything inside the cabinet. Also, keep the area around the unit clean so that you can allow proper air flow. This will prevent you from blocking the vents. Some models have front vents, while others require a certain distance between the unit and the wall to ensure adequate ventilation.
Purchase a wine fridge that suits your climate needs. This will safeguard your investment and extend the life of your wine. It's important to select one that is Energy Star rated, as this indicates that it has met stringent energy efficiency standards. It will operate quietly and save you money on energy bills in the long term.
The type of wine you'll be keeping is another crucial aspect. Different types of wines require different temperatures for optimal storage and serving. Choose a wine refrigerator that has adjustable shelves that can accommodate different bottle sizes. Also, think about whether you will be storing magnum-sized or standard-sized bottles. These will require more room than standard.
In addition to the temperature and capacity it is also important to check the internal technology of the wine refrigerator including carbon filters and alarms. A wine fridge should also have UV protection to prevent the wine from absorption of harmful chemicals or oxidation, which can damage the taste.
You can also opt for an integrated wine fridge to create a seamless design with your custom cabinets and entertainment centers. These units offer a sleek, panel ready design and can either self-ventilate to allow them to be placed in tight spaces or vent from the front so that they can be positioned in a recess. Before you make a purchase take a measurement of the cabinet's height. The majority of wine fridges have handles that extend 2 to 3 centimeters from the edge.
Energy Efficiency
A wine refrigerator can make sure that your wine is properly stored to ensure its flavor and quality over time. A high-quality unit is also designed to be energy-efficient with a minimal use of the amount of electricity that a typical refrigerator in the home consumes. There are models with digital displays, adjustable temperature, and other features that will meet your needs.
The size and the location of the wine refrigerator can affect its energy efficiency. Larger wine refrigerators use more energy than smaller units and a higher temperature in the room can also lead to an increase in the amount of electricity consumed. You should also consider whether the fridge is a built-in or freestanding model and any ventilation requirements for certain models, as they require an amount of space across all sides to let air out properly.
Keep in mind that wine fridges are a significant contributor to household energy bills. It is therefore recommended to choose a brand with an environmental consciousness. Wine fridges that are certified by ENERGY STAR (r) must be able to meet the strict requirements for energy efficiency. Other energy-saving features to consider include LED lighting, UV protection and a durable door seal that will reduce condensation and leaks.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your wine refrigerator can also help you save electricity costs. Be sure to check the temperature on a regular basis and clean the condenser coils regularly to ensure efficient cooling. You can also restrict the frequency you open and shut the refrigerator to prevent the compressor from working continuously. Keep the refrigerator away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as well as other bright lights. Light can cause wine to degrade over time.
The Right to Rent
You want to make sure that the wine fridge you purchase will last for a long time. This is especially true for built-in undercounter units that are built into existing cabinetry and often require intricate electrical connections. This is why you should consider hiring an expert to install your unit. They are certified to install your unit in a safe manner and ensure maximum performance.
Sub-Zero Designer Series wine storage has an even 1/8" reveal and sleek lines to let your cabinetry be seamlessly integrated with the refrigerator. The units have dark opaque glass doors for UV protection and Touch Display lighting; an inverter linear compressor to protect against vibrations and three temperature zones to keep wine at the right temperature. These units also include an industry-leading warranty of two years for appliances and a 12-year warranty for sealed systems.
Reputable Brands
It makes sense to purchase an wine refrigerator made by a trusted brand if are planning to invest the money. Look for models with high customer ratings, a quiet compressor and excellent insulation. Some models are even equipped with coated or tinted glass that shields bottles from UV rays. Many wine refrigerators come with additional features such as a reversible door, multiple rack types as well as temperature zones, LED display and carbon filters, alarms, and locks. Some refrigerators are built into cabinets, while others can be independent and placed under your counter, or in the place of older appliances such as trash compactors.
This 46-bottle wine fridge from Kalamera comes with a variety of unique features, including dual-zone cooling that allows you to store your reds and whites at their optimal temperatures. The digital display and user-friendly controls make it easy to read and operate. The reversible glass door as well as sliding wooden racks can hold standard-sized as well as magnum-sized bottles.
The Black+Decker wine cooler is a great choice for those who want a budget-friendly pick that holds up to the test. This model boasts a dazzling 4.6 rating on Amazon with over 400 reviews (most of them five-star reviews). Although it's not big enough to hold a large collection without having to purchase several units, it's suitable for smaller collections. small wine chiller can be built into existing cabinetry or under a countertop. The shelves are adjustable to a comfortable level for easy retrieval and rest on smooth bearings, making it easy to reach bottles. The shelves are built to fit the majority of Bordeaux style bottles, however they can be a little small for larger, bigger bottles such as the chardonnay. The refrigerator has a quiet compressor as well as an alarm that sounds in case the door is opened or left open too long.