The Benefits of an Under the Cabinet Wine Fridge
Wine refrigerators offer a convenient and stylish way to store your most loved wines at the ideal temperature. They are available as built-in and standalone models.
There are a lot of things to consider when shopping for wine refrigerators including aesthetics and design inside layout cooling system efficiency, energy efficiency, brand reputation warranty, and many more.
Capacity and Size
A built-in fridge can be installed in a cabinet or integrated into a kitchen. They typically vent out the back to avoid overheating, so they require a bit more space than freestanding models to allow adequate ventilation. Due to their larger capacity and other features, they could cost more than a wine refrigerator that is a stand-alone unit.
If you're planning to install an under-counter wine cooler , it's recommended to speak with a professional installer. They will ensure that the unit is installed securely and safely in your cabinet, and they will also ensure that all electrical connections are correctly made. They have the experience and tools to avoid vibrations or damage that could impact the quality of your wine.
Built-in units are an excellent option for kitchens with limited space because they require less space than freestanding units. They can be integrated into cabinets for an elegant, sleek look. They are more spacious than freestanding wine fridges and are perfect for serious collectors, or for those who wish to age their wines for a longer time.
Some units feature shelves that slide out which makes it easier to access bottles that are at the bottom. Others have wire racks which offer traditional style of storage and can be adjusted to accommodate different sizes of bottles. Wooden cradles are another option that offer a classic look while securely securing the bottles to avoid rolling and spilling.
A dual zone wine fridge allows you to store both red and white wines at different temperatures, which is great for those who enjoy a variety of beverages. Digital temperature controls and LED lighting permit easy monitoring and customization of your wine storage. Certain models guard your wine against harmful UV rays which can cause premature ageing.
Space Considerations
If you're planning to purchase a wine fridge that is freestanding to place it under your counter, make sure the door opens completely so that you can access everything in the cabinet. It's also essential to keep the surrounding area free of obstructions to ensure proper air circulation so you don't block the vents. Certain models have front venting, while others require a certain distance between the unit and the wall to ensure adequate ventilation.
Aim to purchase a wine refrigerator that can meet your specific climate needs to help protect your investment and extend the shelf life of your wines. You should also choose one that is equipped with an Energy Star rating, as it signifies that the appliance has met strict energy efficiency standards. It is quiet and will save you money over the long run on your energy costs.
The kind of wine you'll be storing is another significant factor. Different wine types have different temperature requirements to ensure proper storage and serving, so opt for a wine refrigerator that has adjustable shelves to accommodate various bottle sizes. Also, think about whether you'll be storing magnum or standard-sized bottles, as they will require more space than regular.
It is also important to look at the internal tech, such as carbon filters and alarms of the wine fridge. A wine fridge must also be protected from UV light to stop the wine from absorbing harmful chemicals or oxidation which can affect the taste.
For a more seamless look, you can opt for a built in wine fridge that can be integrated seamlessly with custom cabinets or entertainment centers. These units have an elegant, panel-ready finish and either self ventilate to allow them to be positioned in tight spaces or vent from the front, so they can be positioned in a recessed area. However, before purchasing, be sure to determine the size of your cabinetry as the majority of wine fridges come with handles that extend up to 2-3cm from the edge of the cabinet.
Energy Efficiency
A wine refrigerator can make sure that your wine is properly stored, so that it maintains its quality and flavor over time. A top-quality fridge is also built to be energy efficient, using only a fraction the amount of electricity that a typical refrigerator in the home consumes. You can find units with digital displays, adjustable temperatures, and other features that will meet your requirements.
Some factors that affect the energy efficiency of a wine fridge include its size and the location. Larger wine refrigerators consume more energy than smaller ones, and a higher ambient temperature in the room can increase the use of electricity. Take into consideration whether the refrigerator is built-in or freestanding and the venting requirements. Certain models require a certain clearance on all sides to allow for proper venting.
It's important to remember that wine refrigerators are a major contributor to household energy bills It's a good idea to choose an environmentally responsible brand. Wine refrigerators that have been that are certified by ENERGY STAR (r) must comply with strict energy-saving standards. Other features that save energy include LED lighting, UV protection, and a durable door seal that will reduce leaks and condensation.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your wine refrigerator can help you save energy costs. Make sure you check the temperature regularly, and clean the condenser coiled regularly to ensure efficient cooling. You can also limit the amount of times you open and close the refrigerator in order to prevent the compressor from running continuously. Also, make sure to keep the fridge in a cool and dark space away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat, as light can degrade wine over time.
Warranty
When you purchase a wine fridge you'll want to make sure it will last. This is especially true for undercounter units installed in cabinetry which require complicated electrical connections. This is why you should think about hiring an expert to install your unit. They have the experience to install your new device securely and ensure its optimal operation.
Sub-Zero Designer Series wine storage recessed offers the same 1/8 inch display and sleek lines that let your cabinetry be seamlessly integrated with the refrigerator. These units feature dark opaque glass doors that provide UV protection and Touch Display lighting as well as an inverter linear compressor that can ward against vibration; and three temperature zones to preserve wines at their ideal temperatures. They also have an industry-leading two-year warranty on the appliances as well as a limited 12-year sealed system warranty.
Reputable Brands
If you're planning to spend money on a wine refrigerator, it makes sense to select an established brand. Choose refrigerators that have high ratings from customers with a quiet compressor, as well as excellent insulation. Some models even come with tinted or coated glass that protects the bottles from UV rays. A lot of wine fridges come with extra features like reversible door, different rack types as well as temperature zones, LED displays, carbon filters, alarms, and locks. Some refrigerators are built into cabinets, whereas others can be independent and placed under the counter, or even in place of older appliances like trash compactors.
This 46-bottle wine fridge from Kalamera is packed with special features, like dual-zone cooling, which allows you to keep your whites and reds at their optimal temperatures. It's also easy to control and read thanks to the digital display and easy-to-use controls. Other highlights include a reversible door and sliding wooden racks that can accommodate both magnum and standard-sized bottles.
The Black+Decker wine cooler is an excellent choice for those who want a budget-friendly pick that holds up to the demands. This model has an impressive 4.6 rating on Amazon with more than 400 reviews (most of them five-star reviews). It's not able to hold a large collection, but it can be easily incorporated into existing cabinetry and under counters. Its shelves extend to an ideal height for easy retrieval and rest on smooth bearings, which makes it easy to access bottles. The shelves are sized to fit the majority of Bordeaux style bottles, but they may be a bit tight for larger, wider bottles such as the chardonnay. The refrigerator has a quiet compressor and an alarm that sounds if the door is opened or left open too long.