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Wine Refrigerators aren’t just coolers but guardians against the enemies of wine — heat, humidity, light and vibration. Let's explore how they accomplish this........
Temperature and Humidity Control
First and foremost these are insulated and sealed refrigerators. Most models offer temperature zones designed for particular types of wine. The more basic units rely on the fact that cold air sinks inside the sealed compartment so you have a warmer temperature near the top and a cooler one at the bottom. Higher end models offer zones with user controlled digital thermostats so you may tailor the refrigerator to your collection's storage needs. The temperature controls on many of these models may be accessed without opening the door. Humidity levels on most are a constant 50%. Some models offer water bins that better allow you to maintain a higher humidity level.
lease download the following Wine Serving Guide for detailed storage information by wine.
Light Control
Most models offer tinted, thermal-tempered glass doors to protect your wine collection from potentially harmful UV light rays.
Vibration Control
Vibration control is typically accomplished by one of two methods. The unit will either use thermo-electric cooling or a specially mounted and insulated refrigerator compressor. Some models even use vibration dampening materials in the shelves.
Other Considerations
- Free-Standing vs. Built-In
Free-standing units can be used virtually anywhere, even on your counter. These are typically smaller in size than built-in units (4 bottles to 48 bottles) and usually less expensive.
Built-in models may be installed directly into your cabinetry for a seamless integration into the room's decor. You have a greater variety of size options available with built-ins (well over 100 bottles) and they are typically more expensive than free-standing models.
- Available Styles
Most wine refrigerators are designed with side-swing glass doors. The doors themselves will come with either a colored or stainless frame or offer the option of a custom wood frame. Some models are now available as drawers rather than a single door. Larger capacity models may offer basic refrigerator storage along with wine storage. Many models offer wooden shelf edges rather than the standard wire ones. You may then stain the shelf to match your existing woodwork.
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