Finding the best cooling units for small wine cellar can be exciting, but it's also challenging. Even when you have the smallest space, you wouldn't want to compromise the quality of your wine collection, right?
There are different types of wine cooling systems available in the market. Before choosing the right one, you have to know that wine cooling systems have different shapes, sizes, capacities, and installation types. Calculating the heat load is essential to ensure you select the right cooling unit for maintaining stable temperature and humidity levels in your wine cellar.
These are the 5 main types of installations:
- Through-the-Wall Wine Cooling Units (Self-Contained) – The condensing and evaporator units are in the same housing. Like installing a wine cellar air conditioner, mounted between studs in an existing wall. No ducting or vents required. Perfect for small home wine cellars, including modern wine closets, and wine cellar cabinets.
- Fully-Ducted Wine Cellar Cooling Units (Self-Contained) – The unit is fully ducted, meaning that it can be installed up to 25 ducted feet away from the cellar rather than mounting in the cellar. Additionally, this type of wine cellar unit is ideal for you if you don't want the refrigeration unit to be seen and want to keep your cellar as quiet as possible.
- Split Ductless Wine Cellar Cooling Units (Ductless Split) – The evaporator is installed within or close to the wine cellar while the condenser unit is placed outside or in an adjacent room for heat and noise dissipation. A refrigerant line links the two components. You are free to choose the installation you desire and create the quietest cellar possible.
- Fully-Ducted Split Wine Cellar Coolers (Ducted Split) – The evaporator and condensing units are both separate and ducted, instead of being installed in the cellar. Ductwork is used to transport cool air in the cellar. This type of installation makes the wine cellar silent and vibration-free.
- Cabinet Cooling Systems – These built-in wine cabinet coolers are made to fit within closet wine cellars and wine cabinets.
We have reviewed several models throughout the years and gathered feedback from other people who love this hobby. All of these models come with their pros and cons, but they are all good choices if you ask us.
These are the best cooling units for small cellars (140 to 650 cubic feet) perfect for newbies and beginners who just started collecting wines or plan to get one later on.
1. Best for Small to Mid-sized Cellars: WhisperKOOL SC PRO 3000
The WhisperKOOL SC PRO 3000 is one of the modern wine room cooling units with powerful airflow, premium components, a blower fan system, and silent operation technology. This cooling system can be installed without the need for an HVAC technician, making it user-friendly and accessible. It can efficiently cool small to medium wine cellars up to 650 cubic feet.
An exterior grill can be added to keep the exhaust side of the unit from being exposed to the elements. Installing an air purification system that makes use of a UV-C light bulb will also prevent the growth of mold and bacteria in your SC PRO 3000 cooling system. If you have a small home wine cellar, you can use the optional condenser ducting kit to exhaust warm air.
Pros and Cons:
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Pros |
Cons |
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Most advanced system technology. |
Condenser ducting kit not included (optional add-on) |
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Cools up to 650 cu.ft. wine cellars/wine rooms. |
Exterior grill not included (optional add-on) |
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Operates at a lower noise level. |
UV Lighting System not included (optional add-on) |
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Equipped with condensate management system. |
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Easy installation. |
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Powered by standard electrical outlet. |
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Are you a contractor? Contact us or call our Sales Experts at +1-888-407-7770 to get the best price.
2. Best Small Wine Cellar Cooling Unit: WhisperKOOL SC PRO 2000
The WhisperKOOL SC PRO 2000 are compact wine cellar cooling units that are best suited for cellars up to 265 cubic feet in size. Selecting the right cooling system is crucial for optimal wine aging, as different units are designed to accommodate various sizes and conditions. Features are similar to the SC PRO 3000 such as powerful airflow, superior components, a blower fan system, and quiet operation.
If the exhaust side of the unit is exposed outdoors, you might want to protect it with an exterior grill which you can purchase as an add-on. You can also extend your unit’s life by adding a UV-C lighting technology that acts as an air purification system. The condenser ducting kit is an optional accessory that can be used to vent warm air.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Most advanced system technology. |
Condenser ducting kit not included (optional add-on) |
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Cools up to 650 cu.ft. wine cellars/wine rooms. |
Exterior grill not included (optional add-on) |
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Operates at a lower noise level. |
UV Lighting System not included (optional add-on) |
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Equipped with condensate management system. |
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Easy installation. |
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Powered by standard electrical outlet. |
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Are you a technician? Contact us or call our Sales Experts at +1-888-407-7770 to get the lowest price.
3. Best Cooling Systems for Wine Cabinet: Breezaire WKCE 2200
The Breezaire WKCE 2200 are wine cooler cellar units that blow the cold air out the bottom and meticulously control the environment, especially in a small wine cellar/basement that is extremely sensitive to changes in wine storage humidity and temperature, thanks to the digital electronic (Sentry III+) control system. These self-contained cooling units are versatile and convenient for various space sizes, making them ideal for budget-conscious consumers who need effective cooling for smaller areas, such as wine cellars.
These built-in wine cabinet coolers are manufactured with hot air out the rear and an electric cord out the front of the unit. However, if you wish to upgrade them, you can have the hot air out the top and the electrical cord come out the bottom of the unit.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Perfect for cabinet cooling installations. |
Not intended for use in standard wine cellar refrigeration applications. |
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Ideal for small cellars up to 265 cu.ft. |
The WKCE series cooling units are not rated for a specific number of cubic feet due to their configuration. |
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Maintains a stable humidity level. |
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Power outage protection. |
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Blocked airflow protection. |
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Easy installation. |
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Are you a designer? For the best price, get in touch with us or dial +1-888-407-7770 to speak with one of our Sales Experts.
4. Best Budget Cabinet Cooling System: Breezaire WKCE 1060
The smallest wine fridge system is the Breezaire WKCE 1060, which has a cooling capacity of up to 140 cubic feet. This unit features a standard rear exhaust, which is significant for efficient temperature and humidity control. If you have a cellar as small as a wine closet or cabinet, this wine cabinet cooling system is perfect. It is a smaller, more portable wine cooler unit with the same features as the WKCE 2200.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Perfect for wine cabinets and wine closets up to 140 cu.ft. |
Not intended for use in standard wine cellar refrigeration applications. |
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Affordable price. |
The WKCE series cooling units are not rated for a specific number of cubic feet due to their configuration. They are designed to fit within cabinets and other small enclosures. |
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Maintains a stable humidity level. |
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Power outage protection. |
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Blocked airflow protection. |
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Easy installation. |
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Are you a designer? To get the lowest price, contact us or dial +1-888-407-7770 to speak with one of our Sales Experts.
5. Best Compact Wine Cellar Cooling Unit: WhisperKOOL Slimline LS
The WhisperKOOL Slimline LS Cooling Unit, the newest model in WhisperKOOL's Luxury Series, has evolved into a device that can cool at two different capacities with only the flip of a switch!
These wine cellar cooling systems are quite adjustable, with low fan speed cooling up to 300 cubic feet and medium fan speed cooling up to 650 cubic feet of wine cellar space. Additionally, because the controller is now on the condenser side, you can access the device with ease.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Two-speed fan switch with 45% more capacity. |
UV-C Lighting System not included (optional add-on) |
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Easy through-the-wall installation. |
Cannot be ducted. Slimline ductless self-contained units are installed directly in the wine cellar, through a wall. |
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Ideal for 300-650 cu.ft. wine cellar size. |
Recommended to be installed above cellar door. Some homes may not have enough space above their doorways. |
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Can be mounted above your cellar door. |
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Condensate evaporator. |
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Customizable front panel. |
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Quiet and efficient operation. |
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Digital thermostat with bottle probe. |
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Are you a designer, technician or contractor? We can offer you the best price, simply contact us or call one of our Sales Experts at +1-888-407-7770
6. Best Ductless Cooling System: WhisperKOOL Platinum Mini Split
The WhisperKOOL Platinum Mini Split system was created for a more aesthetically pleasing installation for smaller wine cellars up to 500 cubic feet. The distance between the condensing and evaporating units can be up to 100 feet. Because of this, you can choose the location of the condensing and evaporating units. Take a look at its pros and cons.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Cools up to 500 cu.ft. wine cellars. |
Requires HVAC professional |
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Quiet and efficient operation. |
If you choose the 24V Thermostat Conversion Kit, the system will not be built with the standard WhisperKOOL control or liquid measuring bottle probe. You will have to source and purchase your own 24V thermostat to run the equipment. |
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Advanced electronic control system. |
Exterior grill not included (optional add-on) |
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2-speed fan switch to adjust BTU/h capacity. |
Condenser Coil Coating not included (optional add-on) |
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Standard and 24-volt thermostat options available. |
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Available 220V High Efficiency (H.E.) Condenser. |
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Condensing unit can be placed outdoors with purchase of exterior housing. |
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Click here to see the price of Platinum Minisplit 110V
Click here to see the price of Platinum Minisplit 220V
7. Best Self-Contained Wine Cellar Fridge System: Breezaire WKL 2200
The Breezaire WKL 2200 works efficiently with wine cellars up to 265 cubic feet. their small, through-the-wall wine cellar cooling units. Since they are self-contained through-the-wall wine cellar cooling units, they don't require an HVAC specialist. This can be something you want to consider if hassle-free and simple installation is what you need.
Like all Breezaire units, they're equipped with Sentry III+ digital control system for total control over the wine cellar's environment.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Cools up to 265 cu.ft. wine cellars. |
Design is quite outdated since it was first launched in 2011. |
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Ultra quiet operation. |
Upgraded BLACK versions are special orders, therefore they take longer to produce. |
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Vibration-free wine cellar. |
Once an order has been placed, no returns or cancellations will be accepted. |
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Power outage protection. |
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Blocked airflow protection. |
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Accurate and easy to adjust the temperature. |
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Easy installation. |
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Available in BLACK Series Cooling Units (upgraded). Click to see the price.
8. Best Value Split System: Breezaire WKSL 2200
Now, a split cooling system like the Breezaire WKSL 2200 gives you more choices for installations if you would want a more personalized setup or need to address any site issues. This wine cooler cellar unit has a cooling capacity of up to 265 cubic feet of cellar size and uses the Sentry III+ digital control system for complete control over the wine storage conditions.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Cools up to 265 cu.ft. wine cellars. |
Requires HVAC professional. |
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Easy and flexible installation. |
Must be charged with refrigerant during installation. |
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Ultra quiet operation. |
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Vibration control. |
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Adjustable thermostat. |
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Maintains stable humidity (wine cellar humidifier is not required) |
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9. Best Ceiling Mount Wine Cellar Cooling Unit: WhisperKOOL Ceiling Mount Mini Split
The WhisperKOOL Mini Ceiling Mount Ductless Split System is made for small cellars with up to 500 cubic feet capacity. This is the best solution if you don't want your cooling system to be visible within the cellar. Additionally, you'll have more space for racking.
This ceiling-mounted mini-split system efficiently removes warm air that accumulates at the ceiling, cools it, and distributes it throughout the cellar, making sure your wine cellar maintains its ideal temperature. It comes with a pump system to get rid of excess condensation and a cold-weather start kit.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Cools up to 500 cu.ft. wine cellars. |
Requires a qualified HVAC-R technician for installation. |
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High quality and professional-grade components. |
Requires a significant space for ventilation. |
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Energy-saving – utilizing 50% less energy to operate. |
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No ducting required. |
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Hex mesh grille with air filter. |
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2-speed fan switch to adjust BTU/h capacity. |
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Standard and 24-volt thermostat options available. |
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Available 220V High Efficiency (H.E.) Condenser. |
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Click here to see the price of WhisperKOOL Ceiling Mount Minisplit 110V
Click here to see the price of WhisperKOOL Ceiling Mount Minisplit 220V
10. Best Modern Wine Cellar System: CellarCool CX2200
The CellarCool CX 2200 is just the right size for wine rooms up to 265 cubic feet. It can replace Wine Mate cooling systems, offering customizable features and benefits for maintaining optimal temperature and humidity. It’s a through-the-wall wine cooling system that has a digital controller with anti-frost and safety management features, a dynamic air flow for circulation, and a 30-degree temperature variance. You can also select whether the power cord should be located in the front or the back of the unit.
Want to replace your Breezaire and Wine Mate Thru-Wall wine storage units? CellarCool CX2200 is a great direct replacement!
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Pros |
Cons |
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Cools up to 265 cu.ft. wine cellars. |
Exhaust area should not exceed 85°F temperature. |
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Dynamic Air Flow design. |
Requires complete insulation and vapor barrier installation for proper humidity control. |
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Flexible mounting bracket. |
Optional rear power cord costs. |
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Advanced Digital Controller. |
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System Safety Management. |
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Anti-Frost feature. |
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Easy installation. |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I cool my wine cellar?
Top Ways for Cooling a Wine Cellar
- Good Cellar Location. Wine must be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place to preserve its great taste.
- Proper Insulation. Make sure your wine room is well-insulated to keep the heat out.
- Use a Wine Cellar Cooling System.
Related article: How to Build a Wine Cellar: Step-by-Step Guide
Can I use a portable air conditioner in a wine cellar?
We often get this question here at Wine Coolers Empire: “Can I use an air conditioner in my wine cellar?” No, we do not recommend it! A wine cellar cooling unit is a special kind of appliance that is exclusively used in wine cellars or wine rooms.
How to choose a wine cellar cooling unit?
When sizing your cooling system, we suggest leaving some wiggle room. For instance, if your wine cellar is 300 cu.ft., don't select a unit with a maximum capacity of 300 cu.ft. Instead, choose a unit rated for 400 cu.ft. or more.
What temperature should a wine cellar be kept at?
The ideal wine storage temperature is 55°F, but any wine can be stored safely for the long term in a temperature range between 45°F to 65°F as long as there are no significant variations in temperature every day.
Related article: What is the Ideal Temperature for a Wine Cellar?
How can I keep my cellar cool in the summer?
Ensure that all interior walls, ceilings, doors, pipes, and ducts are sealed and fully insulated in your wine cellar. A ventilation system should be installed to allow cool, fresh air into the cellar. Lastly, invest in wine cooling systems that can withstand extreme weather conditions like the Extreme systems (Extreme ti, Extreme tiR, and Ducted Extreme tiR). These units are ideal for states/areas with hotter climates.
The Final Word
Having a small wine cellar is already a significant milestone, especially when you are just getting started. No matter how small, it’s very crucial to choose the right wine cellar cooling unit that will fit your needs when it comes to low air circulation and maintaining the ideal temperature for your wine.
It is the most important factor when you are thinking about your collection and investing in something big like wine cellars. Many stores are offering quality cooling units, such as Wine Coolers Empire, as they make sure that they serve their valued customers the best by providing high-quality products & services.
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