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A Master Builder Offers a Reliable Cooling Solution for a Texas Home Wine Cellar Under the Stairs

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Regardless of the size or shape of your wine cellar, a climate-controlled environment is needed to properly age wine. Heat is the number one enemy of wine. High temperatures deteriorate wine easily. To prevent wine from being spoiled, it must be stored in a room cooled by a reliable wine cooling system. In Texas, Wine Cellar Specialists installed a beautiful home wine cellar with one of the refrigeration units from US Cellar Systems.

A Quality Wine Refrigeration System Can Keep Wine Safe from Harmful Factors

Allowing wine to be exposed to environmental factors such as heat and light can cause loss of time and money. Wine storage problems can be avoided if an efficient wine cooling system is installed in your wine cellar.

Wine Cellar Specialists, one of the top-notch builders in Texas, has recently completed a wine cellar installation project. The clients wanted to make sure that the best storage conditions were achieved in their wine room. They sought the help of Wine Cellar Specialists to build a safe and attractive wine cellar in a curved space under the stairs.

US Cellar System Wine Cooling System – a Perfect Choice for the Small Space

Texas Wine Room Installed with a Ductless Split Wine Cellar Refrigeration Unit

Located in Long Beach, California, US Cellar Systems is a trusted provider of quality wine refrigeration units. All of their wine cellar cooling solutions can help wine enthusiasts preserve their favorite vintages for years to come.

When choosing refrigeration equipment, it is best to consult a cooling expert to ensure the unit is the right size, type, design, and has the required capacity.

At Wine Cellar Specialists, they make a careful assessment of their client’s requirements first before installing the components of the equipment. This will prevent wine storage issues in the future, and ensure that the host and guests enjoy every glass of wine.

US Cellar Systems Wall Mount cooling unit Texas

US Cellar Systems Wall-Mount Ductless Split Wine Cooling Unit

They chose US Cellar Systems’ Wall Mount 3600 ductless split wine cooling unit for this project. This system and all of its refrigeration products are engineered to maintain stable temperatures and humidity levels.

Keep in mind that a climate-controlled environment is key to preserving the highest quality wines in your cellar.

The Wall Mount 3600 cooling unit was placed on the left wall of the room, above the wine barrel tabletop. A wooden grill cover and box were created to hide the refrigeration unit, and add flair to the overall design of the cellar. It is made of knotty Alder, the same material used for the wine racks.

Every collector desires a quiet operation inside his or her wine cellar. To achieve this, Wine Cellar Specialists needed an area where the condensing unit (the noisy component) would be placed. They made use of a high shelf in the client’s garage.

For the digital controller, they utilized a space outside the door. This feature allows for convenient and proper monitoring of the temperature and humidity levels in the wine room.

Practical Wine Rack Design for a Small and Curved Storage Space

Another factor that needs to be carefully thought of when building a Texas wine cellar is the racking. Creating a wine rack design for a small and odd-shaped room can be challenging.

But Wine Cellar Specialists was able to provide a custom racking solution that perfectly fits the shape of the cellar. Since the space is limited, they made sure that the racking design maximizes storage space. Both functionality and the aesthetic appeal must be considered to enhance the owner’s drinking experience.

Components of the Racking System

Texas wine cellar design by Wine Cellar Specialists

Wine Rack Design (Left Wall) by Wine Cellar Specialists

On the left wall, Wine Cellar Specialists installed racking that consists of a reclaimed wine barrel tabletop. This unique tabletop is made from the outer parts of the wine barrelhead. It can serve as additional storage space for a few bottles, and other accessories like decanters, wine glasses, and bottle openers.

Below the tabletop are the individual slots for storing standard 750ml bottles. A solid X-bin was added below this wine rack to allow for bulk storage.

Wood Case Storage Wine Rack (Right Wall)

The back wall, which is the long and curved part of the room, consists of a true radius curve racking. It consists of 750ml-bottle storage slots at the top and bottom. The middle section is a high-reveal display row, intended for showcasing some of the owner’s fine wines.

On the right wall is a 3.25-foot high wine rack, which consists of three solid bins for wood case storage. Above these bins is a horizontal display component that can store one magnum-sized and two 750ml bottles.

The creative team of Wine Cellar Specialists always sees to it that every design they create will display their client’s collections stylishly.

Knotty Alder – Ideal Wood Choice for a Gorgeous Texas Wine Cellar

To enjoy the aesthetic benefits of your storage room, a durable and beautiful material must be used for the wine racks and door. Wine Cellar Specialists selected the wood that best suits their client’s aesthetic style.

Wooden Wine Racks

The racking material contributes to the overall ambiance and appeal of your cellar. Wood has been a favorite material of homeowners. Its natural beauty adds a classic feel to the room. It is also known for its durability and workability.

Knotty Alder was chosen for this project. This light brown wood has many benefits that make it a popular material in the construction industry. It creates a rustic charm that can blend well with any home décor. It contains beautiful knots and clusters that vary in size.

Wine Cellar Door

A properly constructed door can help the cooling equipment in maintaining the ideal conditions in the cellar.

Wine Cellar Specialists use an exterior grade door equipped with proper sealing components to prevent air leakage to and from the wine room. Air leaks cause temperature fluctuations, which can affect wine’s overall quality.

The homeowners have an iron gate, which they wanted to match with their wine cellar door. They chose plain double doors constructed in wrought iron with a knotty alder frame.

With an oil-rubbed bronze Sonoma 2-piece handle set and lock, the door was applied with an Early American stain for a more attractive look.

View the different styles of wine cellar doors offered by Wine Cellar Specialists.

An Expert Will Cool Your Wine Cellar the Right Way

Don’t let wine lose its desirable qualities. Invest in a refrigerated Texas home wine cellar. Wine Cellar Specialists trust US Cellar Systems cooling products to protect their client’s collections. If you need help with your project, you can reach them at +1 (866) 646-7089.

Wine Cellar Specialists Has Converted a Small Closet into a Beautiful Texas Wine Cellar Equipped with an Efficient Cooling Unit

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A wine cellar cannot function properly if it’s not equipped with an efficient wine cooling system. In Frisco, Texas, Wine Cellar Specialists has built a home wine cellar cooled by one of our RM cooling units. Find out more features of this closet conversion project.

A Reliable Cooling System is Needed for Proper Wine Storage

A cool, dark, and humid environment is needed by wine to reach proper maturation. Optimal conditions must be met in your wine cellar for you and your friends to enjoy great-tasting wines.

Wine faults are mainly caused by temperature fluctuations. This problem occurs when you store wine in areas such as kitchen cabinets, cardboard boxes, and regular refrigerators.

Climate-controlled wine cellars will keep your prized wines protected for years to come. The key to achieving a stable storage environment is to invest in a refrigerated wine room built by an expert.

A Refrigerated Texas Wine Cellar Preserves Wine Quality

Whatever the size of your room is, Wine Cellar Specialists can help make your wine storage room the safest place for your collection. They are one of our top-notch dealers who have extensive experience in building exceptional and effective home wine cellars.

In Frisco, Texas, they have completed a closet conversion project for the Williams family. They chose one of our RM wine refrigeration systems to maintain the optimal environment in their client’s wine room.

A Small Closet Converted Into a Refrigerated and Beautiful Wine Cellar

The Old Closet Used for the Texas Wine Cellar Conversion

The Williams had a small closet in their pantry that they wanted to utilize for their wine cellar project. The room is 11 feet high and had shelves on the three walls. The entryway was a solid wooden door.

Wine Cellar Specialists took note of the functional and aesthetic requirements of the client before creating a 3-dimensional wine cellar design.

The 3D Drawings

It is important for homeowners to visualize their completed wine room. The free 3-dimensional drawings include the different rack elevations: the left wall (elevation A), the right wall (elevation B), and the back wall (elevation C).

3-Dimensional Drawing for the Williams Wine Cellar Texas (Plan View)

After the approval of the owner, Wine Cellar Specialists started the installation of the cooling unit, wine racks, and door.

Preparing the Room for Construction

Before the installation, the existing shelving, ceiling, and walls were removed. A dedicated power source for the condensing unit was added for the condenser of the RM cooling unit.

In wine cellar construction, the most critical process is making sure that the room has the proper insulation and vapor barrier to help maintain consistent temperature and humidity. In this project, the walls and ceilings are insulated with closed-cell foam.

Learn more about the importance of wine cellar insulation.

Custom Wine Rack Design for a Texas Home Wine Cellar

Wine Cellar Specialists have been designing wine racks with form and function in mind. They always want their clients to be happy with their wine racking.

Wine Rack Design for the Williams Wine Cellar Texas

In this project, they have created a gorgeous wine rack design that can house 700 bottles. The design consists of individual storage slots, a high reveal display row, solid arch, tabletop, solid horizontal display, double-deep wood case storage, and a mini-quarter round display.

The Cooling System

Texas Wine Cellar Cooling Unit from US Cellar Systems

If you’re serious about wine collecting, your favorite vintages must be kept in a climate-controlled environment. The absence of an efficient wine refrigeration unit causes storage problems that can be detrimental to wine.

At US Cellar Systems, protecting your wine is our priority. Our cooling systems are of high quality and are equipped with great features that suit the unique requirements of our clients.

Our RM2600 ductless split wine cooling unit was used in the Williams project. The unit is installed within the racking on the left wall. To achieve a clean look, a wooden grill cover and box were created to hide the unit.

The RM Series consists of several access panels for proper air distribution inside the cellar. Its aluminum housing is insulated and rustproof.

All our cooling products are pressure tested to ensure high-performance, providing every collection maximum protection. The type of refrigeration unit that you must purchase depends on the size of your wine room and the number of bottles that you intend to store.

Learn more about the different types of refrigeration systems we offer.

Talk to a Master Builder to Start Your Own Closet Wine Cellar Conversion Project

Your wine cellar must be built with the right cooling system to keep wine at its best. Wine Cellar Specialists has extensive experience in providing turnkey solutions for those who want to convert any room into their dream Texas home wine cellar. They recommend efficient cooling products from US Cellar Systems.

Contact them today!

Wine Cellar Specialists

Dallas Design Office

6119 Greenville Avenue #519 Dallas, TX 75207

+1 (972) 454-0480

Project Bel Air Los Angeles Wine Cellar Cooling Unit Installation (RM 4600) with M&M

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Wine is being taken more and more seriously by collectors as time passes. This is why wine storage solutions are not just recommended, but required, especially for those who plan on growing their vintage collection.

The best way for managing, organizing, and showcasing your valued vintage wine collection is to have a wine cellar right inside your home. Your wine room will be where your wine ages properly, while giving you convenient access to your collection at any time.

Having a residential wine cellar will add to your house’s aesthetic appeal while keeping your wine collection safe and secure in a temperature-controlled setting.

Regardless of the design of your wine cellar, you will need a professional wine cellar builder and a specialist for your wine cellar cooling unit, and both must understand the technical aspects of building a wine cellar while keeping the design.

Bel Air Los Angeles Wine Cellar Cooling

Proper insulation, sealing and a good wine cellar cooling unit — these are the secrets to achieving and maintaining the optimum storage environment for aging your wines. Wine cellar refrigeration systems are designed to stabilize the storage condition for your wines. Wine must be kept at a temperature between 55-57^oF and at 60% RH (relative humidity).

When it comes to wine cellar refrigeration systems, US Cellar Systems can provide you with the best options — from wall cabinets to wall-mounted and ducted wine cellar cooling units.

One of US Cellar System’s dealers is M&M Cellar Systems, which is among the best wine cellar refrigeration systems experts in California and nearby states. This company does not just provide you with a wine cellar cooling option but gives you a wine cellar cooling unit based on your specific needs. They specialize in refrigeration and heating installation, from service and maintenance to taking care of wine cellar cooling equipment. This company also provides a wide array of solutions for wine cellar cooling for small cabinets or large commercial displays for your wine collection.

One of M&M Cellar Systems’ latest works is the installation of one of the wine cellar refrigeration systems in Bel Air Estates in Westside L.A. An RM4600 refrigeration model was installed in the 10 x 10 x 8 wine room of the residence. This model is from the RM Series — rust-proof, and with insulated aluminum housing.

RM4600 Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems

The RM Series is from US Cellar Systems. The RM4600 is a split-system type of wine cellar cooling unit. This aspect allows you to hide its evaporator unit on the ceiling or behind your cellar’s walls, separated from its condensing unit.

The condenser is actually a noisy component, but since the model belongs to the split-type wine cellar refrigeration systems, the condenser can be set up in a different location, to promote a quiet environment for your wines.

Split-type cooling systems may be ductless or ducted. The former consists of a set of lines, including electrical wirings and copper tubings, which serve as the connection between the condenser and the evaporator units. The latter, on the other hand, utilizes air ducts to let cool air into your wine cellar and to let warm air out.

For this Bel Air Los Angeles wine cellar cooling, the two evaporator units were placed on the ceiling, concealed by a customized grill cover made of redwood. To connect the evaporator to the condenser in the mechanical room outside the house, a line measuring 50 feet was used.

Your wine cellar will never be complete without the wine cellar cooling unit. Among the most trusted manufacturers of wine cellar refrigeration systems is US Cellar Systems. M&M Cellar Systems partners with only the best in the wine cellar industry. US Cellar Systems and M&M Cellar Systems are a tag team in providing efficient and reliable solutions for quality custom residential and commercial wine cellars in Los Angeles California.

Wine Cellar Cooling Unit Installation

Find a Local Wine Cellar Dealer

Wine Cellar Cooling System and Air Duct Cleaning

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Everybody loves a fine glass of wine, perhaps with their dinner or while socializing with friends. These days, people want to take it a step further by actually building a wine cellar right in the comfort of their own home. Because of innovations in the wine industry and the availability of advanced technology, residential wine storage has now been made more convenient and accessible for everyone.

Wine racks are essential for wine collectors who just have a small number of wine bottles and limited space and budget. If you want to invest in a custom wine cellar, a proper wine cooling unit is crucial. Let’s understand first the function of a wine cellar refrigeration system.

Wine Cellar Cooling Units Preserve Wine’s Quality

Wine cooling units are basically cooling systems that you install in your wine cellar to ensure the proper aging and storage of your wine. Wine is a very complex liquid, and it needs everything to be just right in order for it to age in the best way possible.

Maintaining a constant temperature will result in graceful aging of wine. A wine cellar cooling system regulates the temperature level in your wine room, making sure it doesn’t fluctuate. If there are constant temperature changes, wine has a tendency to go bad. The best temperature for wine storage is 55-57 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another thing that the wine cooling system controls is humidity. If humidity is too high, the glue on the label of the wine bottle melts and molds grow on the bottle. On the other hand, if the humidity is too low, the wine cork dries up and may crack which can lead to wine leakage and wine faults.

After choosing the wine cellar refrigeration system suited to your needs and budget, it is vital that you have the air duct cleaned regularly to ensure that your cooling unit is working efficiently.

Why Air Duct Cleaning is Important for Wine Cellar Cooling Units

Have Your Wine Cellar Cooling Unit Air Ducts Cleaned Regularly

Over the course of time, air ducts can gather dirt, dust, pollen, bacteria, and even dead insects. When these contaminants block your air duct, this can affect the level of the temperature that your wine cellar needs, which can lead to wine spoilage. Aside from this, your wine cooling system might pick up the dirt, allergens, or bacteria from the blockage and carry it into your wine storage room which can potentially harm not only your wine collection, but your health as well.

These are the reasons why it’s crucial that you regularly get your air ducts cleaned. It should be a top priority, and it would be best to have it professionally done.

Do you have any questions about wine cellars or wine cabinet refrigeration systems? Please feel free to contact US Cellar Systems at the following numbers:

Office: (562) 513-3017

Fax: (562) 513-3017

They serve several wine cellar dealers, builders, architects, designers, and contractors to create the perfect wine cellar environment for both residential and commercial custom wine cellars. Click here to learn more about their products and services.

The Right Time to Replace Your Wine Cellar Cooling System

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The wine cellar cooling system plays a very crucial role in preserving wine’s quality. Great taste, flavor, and aroma indicate that the wine you are drinking was stored and aged in a custom wine cellar installed with the right wine refrigeration system.

Just like any other machines, refrigeration systems have the tendency to wear out as time goes by. As a wine collector, it is important to make sure that your wine cellar cooling unit is always in good condition if you want to preserve the quality of your precious wines.

Now, how would you know if your wine cooling equipment is 100% in good working condition? Sometimes you don’t need to be a professional technician in order to figure out that something is wrong with the air cooling equipment. Here are some indications that would raise a red flag.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Custom Wine Cellar Cooling System

Listen to the sound of your wine cooling equipment. In every sound that you will hear, there will be a distinct sound that would tell or indicate a certain problem. A rattling sound would mean that one of the panels has broken free or the fan blade/motor is rubbing against something.

Constantly Check Your Wine Cellar Refrigeration System

If you hear a squealing high pitch sound from your air cooling system, this could mean that the fan belt has worn out. A gurgling sound may be a result of a low refrigerant in the evaporator or condenser foil. If you hear a hissing noise it may be a sign that there’s a refrigerant leak.

A constant check on your wine cellar refrigeration system is the best way to make sure that it’s working properly. Wine is susceptible to sudden changes in temperature. A sudden rise and fall will greatly affect the wine’s taste, flavor, and aroma.

High temperature will cause the wine to mature too early while a cooler temperature can ruin the wine’s taste. Always make sure that the thermostat is checked. Make sure it’s always calibrated.

The door gasket of the wine cooling system is as essential as the other components that you can see within the wine cooling equipment. A broken door gasket can be disastrous to your precious wine collections. Once broken, it can cause inaccurate measurement of temperature that would make the wine mature early.

Professional care is recommended if you want to make sure that your precious wine collections are stored safely in a climate-controlled environment. The tips mentioned above will help you determine the right time to replace your wine cooling system.

Need help in choosing a reliable and quiet wine cellar cooling system for your custom wine cellar? US Cellar Systems can help you. Their products have been used by Coastal Custom Wine Cellars in their California custom wine cellar projects. Contact them at (562) 513-3017 or click here to view their products.

Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems – An Overview of US Cellar Systems Products

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US Cellar Systems – A Leader in Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems California

US Cellar Systems is an industry leader in the design and manufacture of wine cellar refrigeration systems California. They provide a variety of installation options that can accommodate all applications. Their series of cooling systems and refrigeration accessories are engineered to meet the different specifications and requirements of wine cellar builders and designers, as well as HVAC professionals.

Climate controlled systems manufactured by US Cellar Systems are developed with flexibility in mind, because their products can adjust to each unique characteristic of every custom residential or commercial wine cellars. Their line of wine cellar refrigeration systems and components can provide multiple solutions for private wine cellars, commercial wine storage spaces, wine cabinets, and wine closets.

US Cellar Systems wine cellar refrigeration products include HS (High Static) Series, CC (Cabinet Cooler) Series, LPQ (Low Profile Quiet) Series, RM (Rack Mount) Series, VRM (Vertical Rack Mount) Series, DQ (Dual-air Quiet) Series, and WM (Wall Mount) Series.

Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems California

The HS Series is designed to be installed some distance away from the wine cellar, thus reducing noise and vibration in the storage area. This cooling unit can be mounted in different areas of a residential or commercial property, such as the attic, basement, or roof top. This remote setup allows wine collectors to maximize their wine storage space.

The CC Series is specially built for wine cabinets and wine closets in which air flows through small and narrow spaces. This cooling series circulates air up to 10 feet to the left and right of the evaporator coil. This unit is designed for efficient and quiet operation in refrigerated wine cellars.

The LPQ Series is mounted on the ceiling and is ideal for wine cellars with arched ceilings. Refrigerated air is supplied to the room from behind the coil system down a wall, and returned to the angled front of the unit to produce better air flow.

The RM Series is engineered for refrigerated wine cellars, located in medium to high temperature areas. This unit is the easiest to install and the most flexible. It can be mounted horizontally or installed within the racking system. The RM Series consists of several access panels that provide versatility in air distribution.

The VRM Series is similar to the rack mount units in terms of features. The only difference is that they are mounted vertically. This wine cellar refrigeration systems California is an ideal solution for utilizing unused corners or areas in a wine storage space.

Refrigeration Units for Refrigerated Wine Cellars

The DQ Series is specifically designed for wine cellars that have long and narrow layouts, and for wine rooms that are accessed regularly. Return air is pulled in at the bottom and cool air is circulated into the room in two directions with medium to high velocity.

The WM Series is the unit of choice for refrigerated wine cellars with confined or restricted spaces, as well as those with constrained shapes. As the name suggests, the Wall Mount Series is mounted on the wall and only protrudes about one inch into the storage room.

US Cellar Systems work alongside some of the best in the wine cellar industry, such as Coastal Custom Wine Cellars and Wine Cellar Specialists. They are committed to providing the ideal solutions for creating the perfect, refrigerated wine cellar environment, as well as extending exceptional customer service to clients before, during, and after the installation process.

Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems – What are the Wine Cooling Accessories Needed for Custom Wine Cellar Cooling?

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Proper storage of wines requires a climate controlled environment that will help keep temperature and humidity at constant levels. Wines mature to their full potential when stored under stable conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 50 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit, while the appropriate humidity level is 60% to 75%.

Wine cellar refrigeration systems Orange County California are specifically designed to help maintain the right climate conditions necessary for storing and aging wines. These units regulate the storage environment, to prevent sudden changes in temperature and humidity that could otherwise be detrimental to the overall quality of wines.

Self-contained through the wall cooling systems, ductless-split climate control systems, and ducted air handler refrigeration systems are the three primary types of custom wine cellar cooling units. These units offer a range of installation options and cooling capacities, and come in different designs and features that can accommodate various applications.

For optimum functionality and versatility, most wine cellar refrigeration systems come with wine cooling accessories, such as a mini condensate pump, suction line accumulator, rough-in kit electrical install for DC-1 controller and evaporator coil, correct gauge electrical wiring harness, digital controller mounting plate, and outdoor protection system condenser enclosure.

Mini Condensate Pump Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems Accessories

The CP mini or mini condensate pump is designed to efficiently pump condensate waters. Its compact feature allows for ease of installation and maintenance. This wine cooling accessory generates little noise and does not take up space.

Suction Line Accumulator Wine Cooling Accessories

The suction line accumulator (or SLA) is a device that prevents the sudden flow of liquid refrigerant to the compressor. Allowing excess refrigerant to get into the compressor can cause damage to the pistons or scrolls. It can also lead to loss of oil in the condensing unit, which can then result in mechanical failure or damage. The SLA comes in three sizes that can accommodate any connection sizes.

Electrical Rough-in Kit Custom Wine Cellar Cooling Accessories

The RIK or rough-in kit installer provides ease of installation of controller and control wiring. This accessory is a required component for DC-1 controller and evaporator coil. It is designed to help prevent re-opening of walls and construction delays. The kit includes 2 2×4 boxes, 2 connectors, and a 25’ plastic flexible conduit.

Wiring Harness Trade Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems Orange County California

A wiring harness or wiring assembly is designed to transmit electrical power, that will help enhance the performance of custom wine cellar cooling systems, as well as minimize chances of interference. The wiring has marked and reinforced tabs on both ends to provide easy setup of the system.

Digital Controller Installed In Plate Wine Cooling Accessories

The DCP or digital controller plate houses the DC-1 controlling unit. This installation accessory consists of a 2×4 box that can be mounted inside or outside the wine cellar. It is designed to fit the controller, and can be painted to complement the interior of any living space.

Outdoor Enclosure Wine Cooling Accessories

The outdoor enclosure is a wine cooling accessory that provides a degree of outdoor protection to the condensing unit all year round. This component is highly recommended for all system setup that require outdoor installations.

These installation components and wine cooling accessories are manufactured by US Cellar Systems, one of the leading names in designing and creating innovative wine cellar refrigeration systems Orange County California.

Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems – How It Works

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Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems – How It Works (A Processed Video Transcription)

US Cellar Systems’ Wine Cellar Refrigeration System – How It Works .

Hello! My name is Dan Phillips, owner and technical adviser for US Cellar Systems, provider of wine cellar refrigeration systems. Today, we are going to go over the basic components of a wine cellar refrigeration system and how a wine cellar refrigeration system works. This will give you an idea of how a refrigeration system for your wine cellar operates.

Our primary components are: number one, the compressor; number two, the condenser; number three, the metering device; number 4, the evaporator coil.

Basic Components of a Wine Cellar Refrigeration System

The refrigeration cycle starts with the compressor which brings in a low pressure, low temperature gas from the evaporator coil, compresses into a high pressure, high temperature gas, and then forces it into the condenser, where the condenser condenses this high pressure, high temperature gas into a high pressure, warm liquid. It does this either by moving air across the coil or some other medium can be used to take the heat out of the refrigerant.

Then this high pressure, warm liquid will move through the system to the metering device. The metering device causes a drop in pressure, where it goes from a high pressure, high temperature liquid to a low pressure, low temperature liquid, at which moving in to the evaporator it absorbs heat from the room; and just about the reverse process of what the condenser does by the warmer air coming in across the evaporator coil, the heat being absorbed out of it and then the cooler air is returned back to the room.

This process turns the liquid refrigerant back in to your low pressure, low temperature gas, and are recharged back to the compressor to repeat the cycle.

US Cellar Systems

Visit US Cellar Systems now to view our wine cellar refrigeration systems or click here to watch another video.

The Rewards of Investing in a Quality Wine Room Refrigeration System

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Wines and Wine Room Refrigeration

Enjoying a glass of good wine whenever you want it is a sign that you are living the good life. On the other hand, some people purchase a bottle of vintage wine not only for the pleasure of consuming it, but also to engage in a long term investment in wine collection. Such an investment should be valued, protected and safe-guarded, in the way one values a house or luxury car.

Popular collectible wines are those with good storage ability, a long period of maturity, and those declared by experts to have the best quality, certified to have undergone a rigorous production process, from selecting the grape variety to finding a suitable barrel for proper aging.

Avid wine collectors have a range of wine varieties to choose from. Some can spend as much as a thousand dollars per bottle, or more. Wines that are produced in the famous vineyards of France, California and Italy are some of the most popular in the field of wine collecting and long-term wine storage.

Why is it Important to Invest in a Wine Room Refrigeration System?

US Cellars’ Wine Cellar Refrigeration Systems

Every wine connoisseur and enthusiast should know the importance of a wine cellar, as well as the need to invest in wine room refrigeration. The choice of wine cellar refrigeration systems Los Angeles California will make or break your wine collection and, consequently, your investment. Investing in a good quality wine cellar refrigeration system will save you from losing your hard-earned money in the future.

Wines are highly sensitive to changes in storage temperature and humidity. Even the amount of light inside the storage room can significantly affect the temperature, and, through that, the process of wine aging. Because of this, it is very important to store wines in climate controlled wine storage facilities, to allow the flavor, color and aroma of wines to develop well over time.

What are the Basic Components of a Wine Cellar Refrigeration System?

In general, a wine room refrigeration system is composed of a motor, a compressor, a condenser, an expansive valve, an evaporator, and a suitable refrigerant. A refrigerant is a chemically stable and inert compound with desirable thermodynamic properties. The refrigerant in the refrigeration system removes the heat in the air inside the storage room as it is vaporized, and releases the heat outside the storage room as it is condensed.

A good quality wine cellar refrigeration system should have a thermally-stable, lubricated motor and an expansion valve that can maintain a constant coil temperature, promoting proper humidity. Furthermore, the system should (ideally) be noiseless, aesthetically unobtrusive with minimum space requirements, and contained in an insulated, rust-proof casing.

Aside from these physical characteristics of an ideal wine cellar refrigeration system, it should be able to achieve and maintain the desired wine storage conditions to preserve the quality of wines and bring them to their fullest potential.

What Can US Cellar Systems Offer?

US Cellar Systems – The Wine Cellar Refrigeration Expert of Choice

US Cellar Systems is one of the well-known innovators of wine cellar refrigeration systems in Los Angeles California, providing quality service for all wine room refrigeration needs. Services we provide include the supply of innovative equipment to the trade and through our network of experienced contractors, installation of customized wine cellar refrigeration systems into residential and commercial wine cellars, wine cabinets and wine closets, restaurant wine bars and wine rooms, hotel wine tasting rooms, and any other facility designed for the storage and aging of wines.

The state-of-the-art refrigeration systems of US Cellar Systems can guarantee that the wines within storage will be exposed to the optimum temperature and humidity levels. This means that the wine cellar refrigeration systems we offer are highly capable of providing the best climate controlled environment for the preservation of wines. This also means that your investments in wines will all be worth it, and even reap more money should reselling of said wines be considered.

Functions and Features of Wine Cellar Refrigeration Units

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Investing in wines requires a proper storage room where temperature and humidity are regulated at constant levels, and light exposure is kept to a minimum. A wine cellar creates the ideal environment for storing and aging wines for a long period of time. Providing a dark and stable environment protects wines from the negative effects of external influences.

In order for a wine cellar to function properly, it needs insulation to prevent temperature swings and vapor barriers to keep moisture from building up and causing mold growth. More importantly, a wine cellar should be supplied with a proper wine cellar refrigeration unit to achieve the desired climate conditions for wines to mature to their full potential.

Wine Cellar Refrigeration Units by US Cellar Systems

Wine cellar refrigeration systems are specifically engineered to maintain the correct temperature and humidity in the wine cellar environment. These cooling units come in multiple sizes and shapes that can fit various needs and requirements. The three primary types of wine cellar refrigeration units are split system cooling units, through the wall self-contained cooling systems, and ducted air-handler cooling systems.

Split system cooling units consist of two separate components: the condensing unit and evaporator unit. The latter is installed inside the wine storage room while the former is placed outside the room or outdoors. This system is ideal for wine cellars with several limitations and constraints, such as the absence of a ventilation room.

Through the wall self-contained cooling systems are the easiest to install and the least expensive of all refrigeration systems. Both the condensing and evaporator units are housed in one compartment. Through the wall systems are normally mounted on an interior wall of a wine cellar, but there are some models that can be installed on an exterior wall instead.

Ducted air-handler cooling systems make use of air ducts to supply cool air into, and exhaust warm air away from, the wine cellar. This type of setup removes the actual physical presence of the cooling system inside the wine storage room.

Building wine cellars is an expensive home improvement project, and not all wine enthusiasts are financially capable of adding this feature to their home. However, there are alternative wine storage solutions available to the budget-minded wine geek.

Click here to read the features of this Refrigeration Unit

Wine Cabinets and Closet Cooling Units

Wine closets or wine cabinets function like mini wine cellars because they are also equipped with climate control systems. Wine cabinets are affordable storage options and they come in various designs and storage capacities. These cabinets are designed to control temperature and humidity, and they can match any room interior.

To ensure performance efficiency, wine cabinet manufacturers only use cooling units of the highest quality, such as the Cabinet Cooler (CC) Series by US Cellar Systems. The CC Series is the unit of choice for wine closets or wine cabinets. They are engineered to facilitate proper air flow in confined and restricted spaces.

Cooling systems for wine cellars and wine cabinets are essential to preserving the taste and flavor of wines. These refrigeration units ensure that temperature conditions remain within 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, and that the humidity level is kept within 60% – 75%.

To choose the right wine cellar refrigeration unit for you, click here.

Basic Types of Wine and Their Required Wine Storage Temperature

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Wines, Grapes and Wine Storage

Wines are produced by converting grape juice into alcohol through the process of fermentation. Yeast strains are responsible for turning sugars in grapes into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Wines are usually made with grapes from the Vitis Vinifera grape genus varieties. Different grape varieties and yeast strains can yield different types of wine.

There are over a hundred varieties of wines, but they can all be classified into five types: red, white, rosé, sparkling, and fortified wines. Each type has its own unique characteristics, and requires different wine storage temperatures.

Wine Storage Temperature for Red Wines

Red wine is an alcoholic beverage made from black grapes. Its distinctive red and deep purplish color comes from grape skins which are included during the fermentation process. The color of red wine may vary depending on the grape variety and the way it is fermented. The ideal temperature range for storing red wines is 50 – 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Learn more about proper wine storage here!

Red Wines – Proper Wine Storage

Common types of red wine are Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The flavor characteristics of red wine improve

further when allowed to aerate before serving. They are best served below room temperature or between 60 – 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wine Storage Temperature for White Wines

Learn More Proper Wine Storage Techniques here!

White Wines – Proper Wine Storage

White wines are made from black-colored or green-colored grapes. When red grapes are used, the skins are removed before fermentation in order to keep the clear white color. They are best paired with white meat, such as fish and poultry.

The optimal wine storage temperature is 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Some well-known types of white wine are Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Petite Arvine.

Wine Storage Temperature for Rose Wines

Rose Wines – Wine Cellar Refrigeration

Rosé wines have a pink color, derived through the skin contact method, wherein grape skins are allowed to come in contact with the juice for a

very short period before being discarded. This type of wine can also be produced by combining red and white wines. The temperature range for Rosé wine storage is between 45 – 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wine Storage Temperature for Sparkling Wines

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Sparkling Wines – Proper Wine Storage

Sparkling wines have a bubbly and fizzy texture produced by significant amounts of carbon dioxide. This carbon dioxide is usually produced

during the process of actually making the wine. A very popular type of sparkling wine is Champagne, from the Champagne region of France.

The sweetness level of sparkling wines can be described as brut (dry) or doux (a term used to denote the very sweetest of Champagnes). The required storage temperature for sparkling wines is between 43 – 47 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wine Storage Environment for Fortified Wines

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Fortified Wines

Fortified wines are also known as dessert wines. They are produced by adding a distilled beverage or spirit during fermentation. Fortified wines are quite sweet which is why they are best paired with dessert. Unlike other wines, they do not require storage in a controlled environment. Port, Sherry, and Madeira are some of the most popular types of fortified wines.

Proper wine storage is important in maintaining the taste and flavor of wines. The right storage environment should have minimum temperature fluctuations and the right level of humidity. Installing a wine cellar cooling unit inside the wine storage room will help maintain the desired climate conditions.

Regardless of the types of wine you have in your collection, wine cellar refrigeration systems will make sure that the temperature range stays at 50 – 57 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity levels remain within 50% – 60%. A climate controlled environment is integral to preserving the quality of your wine collection over time.

To view the various types of wine cellar refrigeration systems that you can use for your wine storage room, click on these links:

https://www.winecellarrefrigerationsystems.com/

http://www.winecellarsbycoastal.com/wine-cellar-cooling-units-types.aspx

http://www.winecellarspec.com/cooling/

Proper Sizing of a Wine Cellar Cooling System is Critical to its Efficiency and Longevity

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Take Me Straight to the Wine Cellar Cooling System – Heat Load Survey Form

Most wine cellar cooling systems companies offer only a few sizes of wine cellar refrigeration units. These are often matched to a sizing standard of cubic feet. A very useful starting point when determining the volume to be a climate controlled wine storage area. However, this does not include ANY details specific to the Custom Wine Cellar.

The cubic feet method assumes basic standards in construction, usage, and operation. It assumes minimal insulation is used. Not more or NONE. That is generally the only consideration included. It does not account for many very common variables that can be incorporated into a Custom Wine Cellar which are calculated when using an actual heat load survey.

What are these variables that affect a wine cellar cooling systems choice and why are they important?

– Glass

Windows, doors, or walls are NOT considered when sizing by cubic feet.

Any glass in a Wine Cellar or Wine Cabinet is hugely important to compensate for when sizing. The insulation value of dual pane glass is ~R2. This allows a good deal of the cooling to be transferred through the glass. Increasing the amount of equipment required to keep the temperature stable. If it is not considered and smaller equipment is used the chance it will keep up with the needs of the space are slight. However, it is very likely that the equipment will run all the time. This will cause additional problems of very low humidity, extremely high cost of operation, or premature equipment failure not covered by the warranty.

Single pane glass should be avoided like the plague! The slightest leak in a door seal can cause your beautiful cellar to look more like a restaurant pie case. When the cold and warm air mix the water vapor instantly condenses to water droplets. This causes a ‘fog’ on the glass and can eventually lead to staining of the surrounding areas if left unattended. It is not the fault of the equipment and cannot be compensated for. It is a construction issue.

– Insulation

R value, above or below grade, ambient temperature all makes a difference.

Cubic feet estimates R11 insulation as the only factor in the equation. Obviously if there is no insulation to be used this estimate will be wrong. No company ever suggests it is acceptable to use no insulation in a Wine Cellar. Just the same it happens all the time. If a wine room like this is insisted upon by the client, even against better judgment, at least plan for it. Just the same as underestimating glass a larger system will be required or there will be problems.

On the other hand, if more insulation is being used a smaller system may be recommended. This is especially true if the Wine Cellar is to be below grade. Ground temperatures tend to be considerably lower than normal “ambient temperatures” or the conditioned air surrounding the cellar. Therefore much less equipment is required to maintain a stable temperature.

Over-sizing can create problems of a different kind. If the refrigeration system is too large it will only need to run a fraction of the time it should to keep temperature. This may sound great at first but it is not. Commonly known as “short-cycling” will damage the equipment causing failures that may not be protected under the warranty. In addition, the equipment running a predetermined cycle is how the humidity is balanced in the room. If the equipment runs too little the wine cellar’s humidity will increase. Condensation could occur especially if there are defects in the construction. If left alone labels could fall off bottles, water staining wood surfaces, and mildew and/or mold will grow.

– Lighting

Type, # of fixtures, hours used impact the heat of the Wine Cellar.

It used to be quite common to use can lights in a Wine Cellar. Anyone who has ever changed a light bulb knows lights can get very hot, pretty quickly. Imagine you intend to leave these on so you can show off your beautiful Custom Wine Cellar at a summer dinner party lasting several hours. Maybe you just want to leave it on to enjoy it yourself for a few hours each evening after a hard day’s work. Now think of that heat that the refrigeration has to overcome. This is another question in the heat load survey that should be answered as accurately as possible.

If in doubt USE LED LIGHTING! It produces so little heat it does not need calculated into the heat load. Modern LED lighting is now available in many designs, colors, and shapes. It does not have to look like a disco or a Christmas tree. Bulbs can fit in standard fixtures and even work with dimmers or remotes.

– Set Point

Activity, recovery and thermal mass are all things to consider when committing to a “Set Point” temperature for a Wine Cellar.

It is agreed by most experts that 55f is the ideal temperature to store wine, red or white. Both are SERVED at different temperatures. White wines or champagnes should be served preferably below 45f and reds at room temperature. Long term storage warmer than this can accelerate or damage the aging process, colder can slow or even stop it.

Wine Cellar Cooling Systems – Whites Wines & Champagnes

Some Wine Cabinets are designed with the intention of using a serving temperature for whites and champagnes. This would not be allowable with a cubic feet estimate alone. Especially since most Wine Display Cases like this are primarily glass and in hospitality locations. In a restaurant it is very possible that during peak hours the doors will be opened many times per hour. This requires a careful choice of which system is best suited to improve the recovery time and bring the Wine Storage Unit back to normal temperature.

Wine Cellar Cooling Systems – Thermal Mass

Thermal mass describes the temperature of the liquid within the bottles, cases, or even barrels stored in a Cellar. Thermal mass adjusts about 75% more slowly than air temperature does. If there is a lot of room temperature wine loaded into a cellar at one time it is perfectly normal to take up to several hours for the refrigeration to gently bring the temperature to where it is set. Once that is achieved the thermal mass reacts to changes slowly and will assist the stabilization in the room. The equipment will return to normal operation. Setting the thermostat to go colder WILL NOT make it go FASTER. It will put unnecessary stress on the equipment especially if a lower set point was not used in the heat load survey.

Sudden and drastic changes to the temperature of wine are far more detrimental than having it too cold or too warm for a short while.

– Additional features

Refrigerators, TV, Electronics, Fireplaces

Many designers like to add unique features to custom cellar designs. It is important to note that all appliances and electronics give off heat. These things should be considered carefully and are strongly discouraged.

H2: The USCS Heat Load Survey Form

Click here to go to the USCS Heat Load Survey Form. This information should be collected as accurately as possible and sent to us for a free load calculation and estimate. It will help us provide to you the correct equipment options for each unique design.

It will save you the money, time, and aggravation of improperly sized equipment.

Wine Cellar Cooling Units – How Do They Prevent Mold Growth?

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Mold growth in wine cellars? That is a big no-no.

Wine cellars typically have a cool and dark environment, a condition that molds love as it favors their growth.

Molds rapidly grow in moist environments, most especially indoors, and they create a foul odor within their surroundings. In wine cellars, they commonly thrive on carpets, wooden fixtures, ceilings and even on wine labels.

Wine cellars must maintain an environment which is ideal for the optimum aging of wines. Environmental factors such as temperature, lighting and humidity are the most important considerations in building and maintaining wine cellars.

Among the three factors, humidity has the most major influence on mold growth. This means that humidity must be controlled to prevent molds from accumulating inside the wine cellar.

Humidity levels must be maintained at 60-75%, an ideal range for optimum wine aging and best to prevent mold growth as well. If humidity goes too high the moisture will peak as well, and this can trigger the growth of molds. If humidity goes too low, the cork may be damaged which can lead to air entering the bottle and cause oxidative changes to wine.

Thus the relative humidity must not fluctuate beyond these levels in order to ensure that your wines, wine labels and wine cellar furniture and accessories are well protected.

This is one of the reasons wine cellar cooling units are critical for every wine cellar. The type of wine cellar cooling unit that you choose for your wine cellar must be able to constantly maintain the ideal humidity levels.

Here at US Cellar Systems, we offer wine cellar refrigeration systems that are highly efficient in creating an environment that favors proper wine aging while simultaneously preventing the growth of molds. Our wine cellar cooling units are designed to complement the style of every wine cellar and function with high efficiency to ensure that your wines are well protected from different environmental factors.

Consider, for example, our High Static Series Wine Cellars Cooling Units.

High Static Series Wine Cellar Cooling Units

It is featured with a factory installed automatic expansion valve that ensures humidity balance. Humidity balance is one of the most important features to look for when planning to purchase a wine cellar cooling system for your residential wine cellar or commercial wine storage.

To check out other wine cellar refrigeration systems with this kind of feature, visit these sites:

https://www.winecellarrefrigerationsystems.com/dq-wine-cellar-cooling-unit-spec.aspx

https://www.winecellarrefrigerationsystems.com/lpq-wine-cellar-refrigeration-unit-spec.aspx

https://www.winecellarrefrigerationsystems.com/rm-wine-cellar-refrigeration-unit-spec.aspx

https://www.winecellarrefrigerationsystems.com/vrm-wine-cellar-cooling-unit-spec.aspx

https://www.winecellarrefrigerationsystems.com/vhs-wine-cellar-cooling-units-evaporator-spec.aspx

https://www.winecellarrefrigerationsystems.com/products/wm-series.aspx

Should I heat my wine cellar?

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An uncommon question we get from time to time, about wine cellar cooling systems, that we believe is very important to address is: Should I heat my wine cellar?

The short answer is NO.

While this issue does not come up much in California in some parts of the US and Canada such as Maine, New Hampshire and New York all of which are prime wine cellar markets it can be a real concern.

It should be noted that the above answer and the explanation below are heatedly debated in the Wine Cellars Cooling Equipment industry.

Any outdoor components of a wine cellar refrigeration system should always be protected from weather. For most of the country an outdoor enclosure is sufficient. It keeps out foliage and critters like rodents or lizards in search of a warm place when the temperature dips. In areas that will see temps below 40°F for more than a couple days at a time a Low Ambient kit should be added. We install it prior to shipping and it will protect the condensing unit from harsher conditions.

For indoor components, some companies offer heating elements to go along with their wine cooling equipment. This is an easy way to short cut genuine issues with the construction of a Residential Custom Wine Cellar or Commercial Wine Display Cabinet Enclosure. Issues that can threaten the longevity of your investment in both a wine collection and the long-term operational cost of your cellar. Northern areas with basement wine cellarsthat have little or no insulation can see temperatures below what is optimal for storage in the colder months of the year. These wine rooms are likely to not have a vapor barrier. In the long run not installing a good vapor barrier is far more risky. Adding a heating element or “re-heater” is a band-aid on a gunshot.

Adding a “re-heater” does not address the very real problems associated with lack of insulation or a missing vapor barrier. It may initially be cheaper to add a heater but in the long run it is very likely to cost significantly more. Insulation will keep the temperature more consistent, consistency is more important than the temperature itself. Temperature variance can be more damaging than absolute temperature. The great thing about basements is they have so much thermal mass the liquid temperature barely budges!

For more info on temperature measurement see our wine cooling systems tech page.

Some experts go as far to say that cooler temps merely slow down the aging process, not change it or stop it. This is more of an argument with white wines than it is reds. Whites are slightly more fragile at very cold temperature for long term storage. Even still it is widely agreed upon that sudden changes and stability matter far more than the annual gradual dip and slowing of the aging process.