WHAT DOES A WINE COOLER DO
A wine cooler is a refrigerator-like device with an internal compressor that chills wine without diluting or clouding it. It is typically placed in the cellar of converted wine cellars, bars, restaurants with large storage spaces, concert venues and other areas where cocktails are served. Wine coolers chill wine and keep it at a constant temperature. Wine can be stored and served at the desired temperature for up to eight hours before needing to be cooled again.
Before you buy a wine cooler, consider your space and how much storage space you have for it. If you live in an apartment or condominium, a compact wine chiller will give you sophisticated tastes without taking up too much real estate in the kitchen or on shelves. If you have a large kitchen or small bar in your home, a large wine refrigerator will give you ample space for storing wines and entertaining guests.
What Makes Wine Coolers Different From Wine Fridges?
A wine chiller is not the same as a wine refrigerator. Wine coolers are compact versions of refrigerators designed to chill wine when it is not being served. The main difference between a wine cooler and a wine refrigerator is that a wine refrigerator is designed to keep the temperature of the entire interior at a steady cool temperature. The purpose of a wine cooler, on the other hand, is to chill only the bottles of wine. Because they are designed to chill bottles individually, they can be left out at room temperature for short periods. Wine coolers are also meant to be used near an electrical outlet, unlike wine refrigerators which can be moved anywhere in a home or office.
Why Do Wine Coolers Go Bad
The answer to the question is yes, wine coolers go bad. There are a number of reasons why a wine cooler may not work properly.
The most common reason for a wine cooler going bad is from improper operation. In order for a wine cooler to function properly, maintenance and proper care must be performed. Wine coolers will not last long if they are not maintained properly.
Another common reason why wine coolers go bad is from frequent use and abuse. While they may be built to be durable, constant use and exposure to extreme temperatures will cause them to deteriorate faster than normal.
A third reason why wine coolers go bad is from poor electrical connections. If the RV plug or power supply is faulty, it can cause the thermostat inside to malfunction and can even cause the unit to overheat. Check all electrical connections periodically for possible problems.
What Can I Do to Save a Wine Cooler
Regular, proper maintenance of the wine cooler is needed to ensure it works properly. Inspect the compressor on a periodic basis for proper performance. If you are not sure, you should replace the compressor. Inspect the thermostat for proper operation on a periodic basis as well. The thermostat should turn off when the wine cooler reaches room temperature and turn back on when it cools back down to -4°F (25°C). If it does not, or if temperature fluctuations are greater than 2°F (1°C), replace the thermostat. Clean the cooling coils periodically to ensure proper airflow. Use a soft brush to scrub away any residue on the cooling coils. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean up any dust in the interior of the wine cooler. Clean the exterior of the wine cooler weekly by wiping it down with a damp cloth or wiping down with mild soap and water.
What to Do if My Wine Cooler Is Caught in a Storm
A wine chiller is designed to be left out at room temperature for short periods. However, if you are caught in a terrible storm or flooding situation, you need to remove the wine chiller temporarily. When removing the wine chiller, follow these steps:
1. Unplug the wine cooler from the wall outlet. Do not unplug it from the power supply.
2. Move the wine cooler to a safe place indoors.
3. Turn off the main power switch to the wine cooler.
4. Remove the power cord from the outlet, but leave it plugged in with an extension cord or electrical power strip with several outlets on it. If you are in an area where there is no power at all, leave the cord plugged in with another appliance if possible for several days after the storm passes, and always unplug when completing this process.
5. Walk away and leave the area completely.
6. Wait for the temperature inside the wine cooler to drop to -4°F (25°C) before turning on the power switch on the wine cooler’s unit again. If you are unable to put your wine cooler back together, call a licensed professional for assistance or equipment repair services. Keep in mind that most non-electric coolers are portable, allowing them to be moved about by an individual with little effort on their part. However, if you need to leave your wine cooler outside for any reason, make sure it is in a safe and dry area with good air circulation.
Why Do Wine Coolers Cool Too Much or Not Enough?
Thermoelectric wine cooler are designed to maintain wine temperatures between 55°F and 50°F (13°C and 10°C) at all times. When the temperature is too hot, the wine starts to oxidize and spoil. When the temperature is too cold, wine will sit in your refrigerator or freezer without being chilled. The wine cooler will not cool down below 50°F (10°C) if it has been left outside for an extended period of time without use.
What Is the Best Wine Cooler to Purchase?
The best wine cooler to purchase depends on your needs and budget. A single-zone wine cooler will keep a single bottle of wine at a steady temperature. A dual-zone wine cooler is a larger space for storing or chilling a variety of types of wines or a larger number of bottles at once. A dual-zone wine chiller makes an excellent gift idea for the home winemaker who is hoping to age their own wine. A two-zone wine cooler with climate control is ideal for someone who has a large inventory or collection of wines they want to chill and serve year round.
Conclusion
A wine cooler is an excellent way of storing and chilling your wine collection and the best wine coolers offer a host of features and functions you can conveniently enjoy at home. The materials used in the construction of a wine cooler allow for both durability and easy cleaning. Wine coolers can be effective in maintaining temperatures between 55°F and 50°F (13°C to 10°C.) which will preserve the taste of your wines while they sit underneath its chiller, ready to be served down the road.
