Many people are now drinking more wine at home rather than visiting their local bar or restaurant. The way we consume wine is very different from only a few years ago, and daily wine drinking is now more popular than ever. If you’re thinking of getting more into wine or you’re already a convert, it may be time to get a wine refrigerator. This will help you to enjoy your wine with a little more panache, and it’s sure to impress your non-wine drinking friends. Let’s take a look at some of the key features that you need to look for when buying a new wine refrigerator.
Where Can I Place a Wine Refrigerator?
Are you planning on storing your wine fridge in the living room or kitchen or dining room? The best small wine refrigerators use a thermoelectric cooling system instead of a compressor that you would find on a standard domestic refrigerator. A thermoelectric cooling system is preferable because it is dependable, quiet in operation, and an energy efficient option for your wine. A wine refrigerator doesn’t tend to vibrate, so you can place it pretty much anywhere without worrying about background noise.
Are There Any Special Placement Requirements?
The only real drawback to placement is that you need to locate your refrigerator where it will have access to fresh air. This is how your wine refrigerator will prevent temperature and humidity fluctuations that could affect your wine. There is no need to hide your wine refrigerator behind a door, so airflow shouldn’t be a problem. After all, a wine fridge is a stylish appliance, so why would you want to cover it up?
Why Are Wine Refrigerators More Expensive Now?
Wine coolers were relatively cheap up until 2016 when new EPA regulations came into force. The cost rose when new testing became mandatory to improve energy efficiency. But, a wine refrigerator is still an affordable appliance, and there is a wide range of prices depending on your chosen make and model.
How Do Humidity and Racks Work?
In a standard refrigerator, the appliance is designed to keep the moisture out. A wine refrigerator is very different; it’s designed to keep the humidity inside to protect your wine. The humidity will be kept at a consistent level; this keeps the corks, bottles, and wine wet to slow down the aging process and preserve your wine for longer. The racks in a wine cooler are specifically designed for wine bottles, unlike the racks found in standard domestic refrigerators.
Is the Door Design Important?
Yes, the door design is extremely important, and the best wine refrigerators have a solid door finished in steel, a wood finish, or tempered glass. A solid door prevents ultraviolet (UV) rays from affecting your wine as it’s stored. This is an important aspect of wine storage that many people forget. Many people like to look at their wine through the door, and this narrows down the choice to a tempered glass door. This will still prevent the UV rays, and you can admire your wine at the same time.
Are There Any Other Design Features?
Yes, when you start to look at wine refrigerators, you will notice that they are available in a wide range of colors and styles. If you look carefully, you’re sure to find one that suits the style and decor of your home. As a luxury appliance, your new wine refrigerator should make a bold design statement.
If you’re considering a wine refrigerator, you can explore your options with our online collection. Alternatively, speak to one of our team members, who would be happy to answer any queries or questions.