The Benefits of an Under the Cabinet Wine Fridge
Wine refrigerators provide a convenient and stylish method of storing your favorite wines at the optimal temperature. They are available as built-in and standalone models.
When shopping for a new wine fridge, there are a variety of things to consider, such as aesthetics and design as well as interior layout, cooling system energy efficiency as well as brand reputation and warranty.
Size and Capacity
A built-in wine fridge can fit into a cabinet and be recessed into the kitchen space. They usually vent out the back to avoid overheating, so they require a little more room than freestanding models to provide adequate ventilation. Due to their larger capacity and other features, they may also cost more than a wine fridge that is a stand-alone unit.
Contact a professional installer when you are planning to install a wine cooler under the counter. They will ensure that the unit is set up safely and securely within your cabinet, and they can also make sure all electrical connections are correctly made. They have the knowledge and tools to prevent any damage or vibrations that might affect the quality of your wine.
Built-in wine refrigerators can be a great solution for limited floor space in small kitchens since they require less room than freestanding units. They can be built into cabinets to create an elegant, sleek look. These units are larger than freestanding wine fridges, and are perfect for serious wine collectors, or for those who want to age their wines for a longer time.
Some models come with shelves that slide out, making it easy to reach bottles located at the bottom of the racks. Wire racks are available in different models that provide a more traditional style of storage and can be adjusted to accommodate different sizes of bottles. Wooden cradles provide a classic look while securely holding bottles to avoid spills and rolling.
A dual zone wine fridge lets you to store your red and white wines at different temperatures, which is ideal for those who enjoy various beverages. Digital temperature controls and LED lights let you control and personalize your wine storage. Certain models also shield your wine from damaging UV rays that could cause premature aging.
Space Considerations
If you're considering buying an open-top wine fridge to place under your counter, be sure the door can open up completely so that you can access everything in the cabinet. It is also essential to keep the surrounding area free of obstructions to allow to allow for proper air circulation so that you don't block the vents. Some models feature vents on the front and others require a certain distance between the unit's wall and the vent.
Choose a wine fridge that is suited to your climate. This will protect your investment and increase the shelf life of your wine. It's important to select one that is Energy Star rated, as this means that it has met stringent energy efficiency guidelines. It's quiet and reduce your energy bills in the long run.
Another factor to consider is the type of wine that you'll be storing. Different types of wines require different temperatures to ensure proper storage and serving. Look for a wine refrigerator that has adjustable shelves that can accommodate different bottle sizes. Also, consider whether you'll be keeping standard or magnum-sized bottles. These require more space than regular.
It is also worth looking at the internal tech for carbon filters and alarms, of the wine fridge. A wine fridge should also be protected from UV light to stop the wine from absorption of harmful chemicals or oxidation which can damage the taste.
You can opt for an integrated wine fridge to create a seamless design with your own custom cabinets and entertainment centers. They are available in sleek, panel-ready finishes and can be installed in tight spaces. They can also vent from the front. However, prior to making the investment, be sure to measure the size of your cabinetry, as most wine fridges come with handles that can extend up to 2-3cm from the cabinet's edge.
Energy Efficiency
A wine refrigerator can ensure that your wine is properly stored, so that it maintains its flavor and quality over time. A top-quality refrigerator is designed to be energy efficient, consuming only a fraction of the electricity of an average household refrigerator. Frydge can find units with digital displays, adjustable temperature settings and more to meet your specific needs.
The size and location of the wine fridge can impact its energy efficiency. The energy consumption of larger wine refrigerators is greater than smaller models. A higher temperature could also result in a higher electricity consumption. Take into consideration whether the refrigerator is built-in or freestanding and also any ventilation requirements. Certain models require certain amount of clearance across all sides to allow proper venting.
Remember that wine fridges contribute significantly to household energy bills. It is therefore best to choose a model with an environmental consciousness. Choose ENERGY STAR(r) certified wine fridges that meet the strictest criteria for energy efficiency. Other features that save energy include LED lighting, UV protection and a durable door seal that reduces leaks and condensation.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your wine fridge can also help you save on electricity costs. Check the temperature regularly, and clean the condenser coiled regularly to ensure efficient cooling. You can restrict the number of openings and closings 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, since light can affect wine quality over time.
The Right to Rent
You want to make sure that the wine fridge you buy will last. This is particularly applicable to undercounter units with built-in cabinets that are built into cabinetry that require intricate electrical connections. For this reason, you should think about hiring a professional for the installation. They have the expertise to set up your new unit in a safe manner and ensure the best operation.
Sub-Zero Designer Series wine storage comes with a consistent 1/8" reveal and sleek lines that let your cabinetry blend seamlessly with your refrigerator. These units have dark opaque glass doors to shield against UV rays as well as Touch Display Lighting. They also feature an inverter linear compression feature to prevent vibrations and three temperature zones to help keep wines at the ideal temperature. They also have an industry-leading two-year warranty on appliances and a limited 12-year sealed system warranty.
Reputable Brands
If you're planning to invest money on a wine fridge, it makes sense to choose a reputable brand. It is recommended to look for refrigerators that have high customer ratings and a compressor that makes an ear-splitting sound. They must also have good insulation. Certain models have tinted glass or coated glass to protect the bottles from UV radiation. A lot of wine refrigerators have extra features, such as reversible doors, multiple rack types and zones of temperature, carbon filters, LED displays, alarms and locks. Some refrigerators can be constructed into cabinets or freestanding and can be put under the counter or in place of old appliances like trash compactors.
The wine fridge that comes with 46 bottles from Kalamera is packed with special features, like dual-zone cooling, which allows you to keep your reds and whites at their optimal temperatures. The digital display and user-friendly controls make it easy to read and operate. Other features include a reversible door as well as sliding wooden racks that can accommodate both magnum and standard-sized bottles.
The Black+Decker wine cooler is a solid option for those who want an affordable option that can stand up to the task. This model has a 4.6 rating and has nearly 400 reviews, the majority of which are five-star. Although it's not big enough to store a huge collection without needing to buy multiple units, it's suitable for smaller collections and can be built into existing cabinetry or under the counter. Its shelves are extended to an appropriate height for retrieval and rest on smooth bearings, making it simple to access bottles. The shelves are sized to fit most Bordeaux style bottles, however they may be a bit tight for larger, wider bottles such as chardonnay. The refrigerator has a quiet compressor and an alarm that sounds when the door is closed or left open for too long.