How fully integrated installations hide wine fridges?
If you're looking for a wine fridge that can be hidden within the kitchen to blend into your interior design then a panel ready, fully integrated wine fridge (or wine drawer) may be the best solution.
All wine fridges, including fully integrated wine fridges, need to vent, although some are now self ventilating, it's important to know your wine fridges ventilation requirements and your apertures ability to facilitate them up front.
With this information you can choose the right height, integrated wine fridge to hide the wine fridge installation and blend seamlessly into your kitchen.
Can I put a door on any wine fridge?
The mistake many customer make is thinking that any wine fridge can be placed inside a cupboard and then a door can be closed on it. To block the ventilation of a freestanding wine fridge or a built in wine fridge will invalidate the warranty and cause the fridge to break within months. If you want to hide your wine fridge inside your kitchen design then you must choose a fully integrated wine fridge or panel ready undercounter wine fridge.
How can I hide my freestanding wine fridge?
You can't put your freestanding wine fridge in a cupboard and shut the door on it or build it into carpentry.
How can I hide my undercounter wine fridge?
Undercounter wine fridges can be build in but the front of the wine fridge, at least the grille, needs to be exposed to allow hot air to be expelled.
What options of fully integrated wine fridges exist?
Panel ready wine fridges
If you want to hang your own door on an integrated wine fridge then you need a 'panel ready' wine fridge. The panel ready integrated wine fridges come with drilled holes and hooks to allow the customer to hang their own door, thus matching their kitchen cabinetry.
Panel ready wine drawers
As with integrated wine fridges, wine drawers can be hidden within the kitchen design by hanging matching carpentry on the draw. These units also have special ventilation requirements and can be self ventilating.
What is the difference between built in and integrated wine cooler?
The terms "built-in" and "fully integrated" are often used interchangeably when referring to wine fridges or other kitchen appliances. However, in the context of wine fridges, they can have specific meanings based on the design and installation options. Here's a breakdown of the differences between built-in and fully integrated wine fridges:
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Built-In Wine Fridges:
- Design and Placement: Built-in wine fridges are designed to be installed into cabinetry or a specific space in the kitchen. They are often installed flush with surrounding cabinets for a seamless and integrated look.
- Ventilation: Built-in wine fridges typically have ventilation at the front or front-bottom of the unit. This design allows them to expel heat efficiently and prevents overheating when installed in enclosed spaces.
- Appearance: While built-in wine fridges are meant to blend with the surrounding cabinetry, they might still have a visible control panel, handle, or display on the front, depending on the model.
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Fully Integrated Wine Fridges:
- Design and Placement: Fully integrated wine fridges take integration a step further. They are designed to be completely hidden behind custom cabinetry panels, matching the kitchen decor seamlessly. When the fridge is closed, it appears as part of the cabinetry with no visible external features.
- Ventilation: Like built-in models, fully integrated wine fridges still require proper ventilation. The ventilation is usually designed to work through the front or front-bottom of the unit while maintaining the hidden appearance.
- Appearance: Fully integrated wine fridges are characterized by their ability to blend entirely with the kitchen design, hiding any visible control panels or handles when the door is closed.
In summary, both built-in and fully integrated wine fridges are designed for seamless integration into the kitchen, but the degree of visibility and external features differs. Built-in models may have some visible elements, while fully integrated models are meant to be entirely concealed behind custom cabinetry. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences, kitchen design goals, and the desired level of integration with the surrounding space.
How to hang an integrated wine fridge door?
Hanging a door on an integrated appliance, such as a wine fridge or refrigerator, involves attaching a panel to the front of the appliance so that it matches the surrounding cabinetry. The specific steps may vary depending on the brand and model of the appliance, so it's essential to consult the manufacturer's instructions that come with the appliance. However, here is a general guide that should give you an idea of the process:
Materials and Tools:
Integrated door panel
Screws
Screwdriver or drill
Level
Tape measure
Pencil
Steps:
Read the Appliance Manual:
Start by carefully reading the manual that came with the appliance. The manufacturer's instructions will provide specific details and guidance for your particular model.
Prepare the Door Panel:
If the door panel didn't come pre-drilled, you may need to measure and mark where the screws will go. Use a tape measure to ensure accurate placement.
Locate the Mounting Points on the Appliance:
Check the appliance for pre-drilled holes or mounting points. These are typically located on the front of the appliance and are designed for attaching the door panel.
Align and Level the Door Panel:
Place the door panel in front of the appliance, aligning it with the edges. Use a level to ensure that the panel is perfectly horizontal and vertical. Make any necessary adjustments.
Mark the Mounting Points on the Door Panel:
Using a pencil, mark the positions where you will attach the screws on the door panel based on the mounting points on the appliance.
Drill Pilot Holes (if necessary):
If the door panel is not pre-drilled, use a drill to create pilot holes at the marked positions. Make sure the pilot holes are slightly smaller than the screws you'll be using.
Attach the Door Panel:
Line up the holes on the door panel with the mounting points on the appliance. Use screws to attach the door panel securely. Tighten the screws, but be cautious not to overtighten, as this could damage the panel or appliance.
Check for Proper Operation:
Open and close the door to ensure that it operates smoothly without any interference. Make any necessary adjustments to the alignment if needed.
Final Adjustments:
Once the door is attached and operating correctly, make any final adjustments to ensure that the gaps around the door are even and that it blends seamlessly with the surrounding cabinetry.
Remember, these steps are general guidelines, and it's crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by the appliance manufacturer. If you're unsure or encounter difficulties, consider consulting a professional installer or contacting the manufacturer for assistance.
Why are integrated wine fridges so expensive?
Integrated wine fridges are more expensive than freestanding wine fridges due to their internal technology whereby the ventilation of the unit needs to funnel in one direction whereas a freestanding wine fridge can just naturally cool from its carcass. They are also produced in smaller numbers and due to economies of scale are more expensive. Lastly, the design of the technical door also adds to the costs.
Which are the best brands of integrated wine fridges?
Premium integrated wine fridges come from Dunavox, Liebherr, Dometic and Swisscave.
How do integrated wine fridges vent?
Integrated wine fridges, like other types of refrigerators, need proper ventilation to dissipate the heat generated during the cooling process. Ventilation is essential to prevent the appliance from overheating and to ensure optimal performance. The ventilation system typically involves two main components: the condenser and the fan.
Here's how integrated wine fridges typically vent:
Rear Ventilation:
Integrated wine fridges are designed with rear ventilation, meaning that the heat exchange occurs at the back of the unit. This allows the appliance to be built seamlessly into cabinetry and a door hung on the front. Some wine fridges from Dunavox are self ventilating so do not need any ventilation space adding.
Condenser Location:
The condenser is a crucial component responsible for removing heat from inside the wine fridge. In integrated models, the condenser is usually located at the front or bottom of the unit, behind a grille or panel. This allows the heat to be released into the surrounding air.
Ventilation Grille:
Integrated wine fridges that need ventilation typically draw air from the bottom of the unit and expel at the back at the top of the unit and then this overflow is funneled out above the wine fridge. However, the manufacturers guidelines need to be followed.
Space Requirements:
Manufacturers usually specify the minimum clearance requirements around the appliance to ensure adequate ventilation. Be sure to follow these guidelines when installing the integrated wine fridge to allow sufficient airflow and prevent overheating.
Internal Fans:
Some integrated wine fridges may also have internal fans to enhance the airflow inside the unit. These fans help distribute cold air evenly and ensure that the temperature is consistent throughout the appliance.
Regular Maintenance:
To maintain optimal ventilation and prevent the accumulation of dust and debris, it's essential to perform regular maintenance. Clean the ventilation grilles and surrounding areas periodically to ensure unrestricted airflow.
When installing an integrated wine fridge, always refer to the manufacturer's installation instructions and guidelines. They will provide specific details about ventilation requirements, clearance dimensions, and any other considerations essential for proper functioning. Failure to follow these instructions could result in reduced efficiency, increased energy consumption, and potential damage to the appliance. If you have any doubts or questions, consider consulting a professional installer or contacting the manufacturer for guidance.
Do integrated wine fridges need to be plumbed in?
No, the water produced by the unit is managed by the internal technology, the most important installation is the ventilation.
If you need any help or recommendations on an integrated wine fridge or tips on how to hide a wine fridge then visit us in-store in our London store or speak to us on live chat.