Are you curious if what is a wine fridge? Most of you might be thinking that wine fridges are only made for those hardcore aficionados. But no, this appliance is made to preserve the aromas and flavors of wine.
Unlike those cabinets where people usually store their wine collection, a wine fridge does not leave them vulnerable to humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and direct light, thereby enhancing the flavor.
It is also not ideal for putting your wines inside the refrigerator in your kitchen since they are typically cooler at about 38 degrees F. So, let’s answer your question regarding what a wine fridge is.
Wine Coolers vs. Wine Fridges
You might also want to know the difference between these two. Well, a wine fridge is typically bigger than a wine cooler. This is because it uses compression cooling, so it is ideal for warmer rooms and larger collections. On the other hand, Wine coolers use thermoelectric cooling, which is why they are generally quieter.
What Is A Wine Fridges vs. Regular Fridges?
So, what is a wine fridge? Well, you’ve already known what it means. Right? The thing is that a wine cooler is different from a regular fridge in terms of various aspects, including the following:
Aspect #1. Temperature
Temperature is important for wine storage. The ideal temperature when storing wine is around 45-65 degrees Fahrenheit—conversely, regular fridges start from 40 degrees and lower on average.
Aspect #2. Vibration
Since regular fridges have compressors and motors, they vibrate subtly. The vibration will disrupt the maturation process of the wine thereby affecting the integrity of the wine.
More than the ideal temperature for wines, wine fridges ensure that they are still inside. Even though compressors also power them, it is designed with a built-in system that absorbs vibration. This also minimizes tremors, as well as cuts, noise down.
Aspect #3. Contamination
People love wine for its rich and full flavors. However, if you put it inside a regular fridge, hints of chili or any other leftover inside can affect the aroma or even the flavor of the wine.
But wine fridges can maintain a certain level of humidity. That is why the corks will remain moist and impermeable.
Conversely, regular fridges are particularly designed in such a way that they will suppress humidity. With this, the corks may shrink and allow the odor to seep into your wine affecting its natural flavors.
4 Benefits Of Wine Fridges
Let us take a look at some benefits that come with wine fridges.
Benefit #1. Less expensive
Having a wine fridge is relatively less expensive than getting a wine cellar since the latter requires the most power to maintain the humidity and temperature levels.
Benefit #2. Keep unwanted or bad smells out
The odor of the fridge in your kitchen cab affects wine adversely. Since regular fridges lack humidity, the wine will take on tastes and odors from the fridge. This will make your wine unappetizing.
Benefit #3. Wine will stay fresh longer
Wine is susceptible to changes in temperature, so if your house is too hot or cold, chances are high for the wine to lose its flavor. Regular fridges can drive humidity out and drop the temperature. But wine cellars and fridges are different. They lower the temperature gradually and maintain ideal humidity for wine.
Benefit #4. Eco-friendly
It is good to invest in something like a wine fridge if you are particularly concerned with the environment. With this particular fridge, you will be able to save energy in your home. This, in turn, preserves the environment as well.
According to New Air, wine fridges also do not have dangerous emissions. In essence, the cooling process does not involve any dangerous chemicals. The cooling is made even simpler with the use of a metal rod in exchanging heat between the outside environment and internal chambers.
With that being said, getting a wine fridge is an eco-friendlier choice compared to any other alternatives available in the market.
FAQs
In this section, you will get answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding wine fridges.
Question #1. How different is built-in from freestanding wine coolers?
Built-in wine coolers are to be built into cabinetry or existing counters, while freestanding wine coolers are specifically designed to stand alone.
Question #2. Should I get a compressor or thermoelectric wine cooler?
If you only have less than two wine cases, you would want to have a freestanding wine cooler. With this, the better choice is a thermoelectric one. But if you will keep your wine cooler in a warmer room and have larger collections, a wine cooler with a compressor base would be a better option.
Furthermore, the majority of built-in wine coolers are powered by compressors rather than thermoelectric.
Question #3. Can I use my wine fridge to store other beverages?
In general, wine fridges cannot offer temperatures lower than 46 degrees Fahrenheit. With this, it is recommended to get a traditional refrigerator or a beverage cooler if you intend to keep other beverages on it.
It’s A Wrap!
Now you know what a wine fridge is and how it is different from regular refrigerators and wine coolers. You also get to know the benefits of having a wine fridge at home. Hopefully, the aforementioned information feeds your curiosity about wine coolers.