Factors to Consider When Choosing a Freestanding Wine Fridge
Capacity
Standalone wine fridges range widely in capacity, from a few dozen bottles to up to 200-300 bottles. If you plan to store different bottle sizes (champagne, magnum bottles, splits, etc.), look for a wine cooler with flexible shelving that accommodates a range of bottle types. If you want to display some of your wine, choose a design that includes label-forward shelves.
Noise and Vibration
If you plan on placing your wine fridge in a frequently used area of your home, look for models with a quiet rating. Always choose a model with vibration-dampening features to protect your wine. Many wine fridge manufacturers use special insulation, shock absorbers around the compressor, and rubber bottle tray supports to minimize vibration.
Integrated Locks
Some wine fridges have integrated locks for child safety and to prevent theft. If your wine fridge is for a commercial application, such as a wine bar or restaurant, integrated wine locks will prevent would-be thieves from swiping your prize vintages.
UV Light Protection
Protecting your wine from UV light is critical. If you opt for a wine cooler with a glass front, make sure it has built-in UV protection. Virtually all glass-front wine fridges have UV protection today.
Temperature Zones
Many wine fridges are zoned for different types of wine or for serving vs. maturing. Some wine coolers have separate compartments within the units, allowing you to store wine at different temperatures. If your region has extreme temperature fluctuations, look for a wine fridge with an integrated heating element.
Humidity Control
A quality wine fridge should have humidity controls you can adjust as needed to ensure your corks don’t dry out. This is especially important if you plan to mature wine in your refrigerator for years.
Size
Freestanding wine coolers offer maximum flexibility. They can be placed virtually anywhere in the home, from the kitchen to a main living area. Be sure to measure your space to ensure the unit will fit comfortably within the space and that the door(s) can be easily opened.
Design
Built-in wine coolers usually ventilate from the front, while freestanding wine fridges typically have side or rear ventilation. If you plan to incorporate your wine fridge into your cabinetry at some point in the future, consider a built-in design. This gives you more flexibility if you move into a new home or remodel your existing kitchen or wine room.
