No longer for
the uber-rich, planning a wine cellar can be fun and exciting. Tailor-made
cellars are more affordable than ever before, a trend that can be seen in their
increasing appearance in new home construction. Before investing in in
your wine cellar and cooling unit, be sure to consider these important facets of
your wine cellar design:
- Cellar Size and Type
The purpose of your cellar will determine its size. Storage-only cellars are compact and pack maximum storage into minimal space. Moderately sized cellars can offer storage and improved display capabilities. On the other end, large, customized cellars can be very elaborate and provide storage, display, tasting areas, themed décor, and more.
System type
- Self-contained:
Self-contained systems are economical and easy to install between existing wall studs without the help of a heating and air service and repair contractors, however they are noisier than other systems. - Split system:
Split systems are the most efficient, however their condensers are noisy and require significant space for ventilation. Luckily they allow for condenser placement away from the cellar when installed by a licensed heating and air conditioning company allowing for better heat dissipation/noise reduction. - Ducted:
Ducted systems offer greater installation options/flexibility, can reduce/eliminate noise with proper installation, and be installed up to 25 ducted feet from the cellar so you won't have to see the wine cooling unit in the cellar. - Location
Choose a room with as little exposure to direct sunlight for temperature control. Consider compressor noise when determining placement. The system will run 24/7, 50-60% of the day to maintain temperature. - Venting
Adequate ventilation is the key to climate management. Your unit will cool your wine only within a 30-55 degree F temperature differential of your exhaust room, depending on your chosen system. In a system with a 55 degree temperature differential, for example, the exhaust room must not exceed 110 degrees F to prevent wine from being compromised. - Insulation
The better insulated the cellar, the less your cooling unit run to maintain climate. This makes garages and uninsulated spaces a poor choice. Concrete walls are also inappropriate as they absorb cooling. Framed walls with insulation are necessary: R13 for interior walls, R19 for exterior - though R30 is recommended. Glass cellars are poorly insulated and require larger systems. - Humidity
A vapor barrier protects your cellar from excess moisture and mold, as well as too little moisture that can result in dried corks and oxygen damage. It is imperative to choose a wine cooling system that maintains both temperature and humidity. - Lighting
Low voltage LEDs or fluorescents paired with a motion sensor are recommended to prevent unwanted heat buildup and light exposure. - Wall covering
Choose from standard drywall, green board for moisture resistance, tongue-and-groove wood paneling in redwood or cedar, or PVA paint. - Flooring
Slate, marble, tile, and vinyl are all excellent choices for the flooring of your cellar - Racking
Choose from rot-resistant mahogany, redwood, or cedar to protect your collection. - Redundant cooling systems
For high-value collections, a second cooling system such as your home’s air conditioner may be used as backup. A dedicated circuit is essential, and a backup generator a wise investment.
Ready to build your
cellar but don’t know where to start? H
& H Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. can help. Contact us today.
