The Benefits of an Under the Cabinet Wine Fridge
Wine refrigerators are stylish and convenient way to store your favorite wines at the ideal temperature. These are available in both built-in and standalone models.
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing wine fridges that include design and aesthetics, interior layout cooling system, the efficiency of the appliance, its reputation, warranty, and more.
Size and Capacity
A built-in wine fridge could be fitted into a cabinet, and can be recessed into the kitchen space. They usually vent the back to avoid overheating, and therefore require a bit more space than freestanding models in order to allow adequate ventilation. Due to their greater capacity and other features, they can cost more than a wine refrigerator that is stand-alone.
Get a professional to install it when you are planning to install a wine cooler beneath the counter. They can assure a safe and secure fit into your cabinetry and ensure that electrical connections are correctly constructed. They have the knowledge and tools to prevent vibrations or damage that could impact the quality of your wine.
Built-in wine refrigerators are an ideal solution for the smaller floor space in kitchens as they take up less space than freestanding units. They can be built into cabinets for an elegant, sleek look. They typically have a larger capacity than freestanding wine refrigerators and are ideal for serious collectors or those looking to age wines for extended periods.
Some models have 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 the traditional look of storage and can be adjusted to accommodate different sizes of bottles. Wooden cradles offer a vintage look while securely holding bottles to stop them from spills and rolling.
A dual zone wine fridge allows you to store both white and red wines at different temperatures, which is great for those who love various beverages. Digital temperature controls and LED lights allow you to monitor and adjust your wine storage. Certain models guard your wine from harmful UV rays that can cause premature aging.
Space Considerations
If you are thinking about purchasing a wine fridge to place it under your countertop make sure the door is able to be opened completely so that you can access everything inside. It is also essential to keep the area around it free of obstructions to allow for proper air circulation, so you won't be obstructing the vents. Certain models have front vents while others require a specific distance between the wall and the vent.
Try to find a wine refrigerator that meets your specific requirements for climate, as this will ensure your investment is protected and prolong the longevity of your wines. It is also recommended to choose a model that is equipped with an Energy Star rating, as it signifies that the appliance has met the strictest energy efficiency guidelines. It will run quietly and will save you money in the long term on your energy bills.
The type of wine you'll store is another important factor. Wines of different types require different temperatures to ensure proper storage and serving. Find an wine fridge with adjustable shelves that can accommodate different sizes of bottles. Also, think about whether you'll be storing standard or magnum bottles, since these will require more space than regular.
It is also worth looking at the internal technology like carbon filters and alarms of the wine refrigerator. A wine refrigerator should have UV protection to prevent the wine from absorption of harmful chemicals or oxidation which can affect the flavor.
To create a more unified appearance, opt for a built-in wine fridge that can be integrated seamlessly with custom cabinetry or entertainment centers. These units are available with sleek, panel-ready designs and can be fitted in tight space. They also have the option to vent from the front. However, prior to making the investment, be sure to measure the dimensions of your cabinet and note that most wine refrigerators come with handles that extend as far as 2-3 cm from the edge of the cabinet.
Energy Efficiency
A wine cabinet under the cabinet fridge can ensure that your valuable wine is properly stored, to ensure that it maintains its flavor and quality over time. A top-quality refrigerator is designed to be energy efficient, using only a small amount of electricity compared to the typical refrigerator in the home. There are units that have digital displays, adjustable temperature settings and more to meet your individual needs.
A few factors that affect the energy efficiency of a wine fridge include its size and the location. The energy consumption of larger wine refrigerators is higher than smaller ones. A higher temperature in the ambient can also increase the power consumption. You should also consider whether the refrigerator is a freestanding or built-in model, and any space requirements for ventilation for certain models, as they require some space on all sides to vent properly.
It's important to keep in mind that wine refrigerators are a major contributor to household energy bills, so it's best to select an eco-friendly brand. Look for ENERGY STAR(r) certified wine fridges that meet the strictest energy-saving standards. Other features that save energy include LED lighting, UV protection and a sturdy door seal that reduces leaks and condensation.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your wine refrigerator will also help you save on electric bills. 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 to stop the compressor from constantly working. Make sure you keep the fridge in a dark and cool environment away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat, as light can degrade wine over time.
The Right to Rent
You must ensure that the wine fridge you purchase will last for a long time. This is especially the case for undercounter units that are built-in that are recessed into cabinetry and typically require complex electrical connections. It is recommended that you hire a professional to install the unit. They have the expertise to install your new unit safely and ensure optimal operation.
Sub-Zero Designer Series recessed wine storage provides the same 1/8 inch display and sleek lines that let your cabinetry be seamlessly integrated with the refrigerator. These units come with dark opaque glass doors to protect against UV and Touch Display lighting as well as an inverter linear compressor to protect against vibrations; and three temperature zones to help keep wines at their ideal temperatures. They also include an industry-leading two-year warranty on appliances and a limited 12-year sealed system warranty.
Reputable Brands
It makes sense to purchase a wine refrigerator from a trusted brand if are going to spend money. Choose refrigerators that have high ratings from customers as well as a quiet compressor and adequate insulation. Certain models have tinted glass or coated glass to protect the bottles from UV radiation. Many wine refrigerators come with additional features such as a reversible door, various rack types as well as temperature zones, LED displays, carbon filters, alarms, and locks. Some refrigerators are built into cabinets, whereas others are freestanding and placed under the counter, or even in place of older appliances like trash compactors.
This 46-bottle wine fridge from Kalamera comes with a variety of unique features, including dual-zone cooling that lets you to keep your whites and reds at their ideal temperatures. wine coolers and refrigerators and easy-to-use controls make it easy to read and operate. The reversible glass door as well as sliding wooden racks can accommodate standard-sized and magnum-sized bottles.
The Black+Decker wine cooler is a great choice for those seeking an affordable model that will stand up to the task. This model has an average of 4.6 rating and has nearly 400 reviews, a majority of which are five-star. It won't be able to accommodate a large collection however, it can be easily built into existing cabinets and under counters. Its shelves are adjustable to a comfortable level to allow for easy access, and they sit on smooth bearings to make it easy to reach bottles. They're large enough to accommodate the majority of Bordeaux-style bottles, with some degree of tightness when it comes to the larger, wider bottles such as the chardonnay. The fridge has a quiet compressor and an alarm that sounds if the door is opened or left open for too long.