Why won't my wine fridge won't get cold?
In today's blog post we're going to look at all the reasons your wine fridge may not be getting cold (or getting to temperature). These range from the highly technical that may even need an engineer's visit to the very common and somewhat funny reasons with many issues caused only by lack of patience.
Common reasons my wine fridge isn't cold?
#1 - I turned my wine fridge on an hour ago and it's still not cold
Wine fridges can take several hours to arrive at their end temperature. From EuroCave and Swisscave, all the way down to the cheaper brands, wine fridges simply take time, sometimes several hours, to reach the temperature you've set. Wait at least a day before concluding the wine fridge doesn't work after you've set the temperature.
#2 - My wine fridge is not reaching the temperature I set
The second most common service call we get is customers who are trying to set a temperature that their dual zone wine fridge does not go too. Be sure to read the instructions in your manual and understand, if the wine fridge is split in two, which are the temperatures both compartments can reach. Do not assume the highest compartment is always the warmest, it isn't always the case.
#3 Incorrect temperature recording - sensor issues
A wine fridge is measuring the outside and the inside temperatures, if any of the sensor equipment is malfunctioning the temperature display may say one thing but the reality may be another. You can check this by placing another thermometer in your wine fridge in the central section of the compartment. If the reading from that thermometer is several degrees from the displayed one then there is a problem and an engineer may need to be sent.
#4 - The wine fridge is staying at room temperature
There could be several genuine reasons the wine fridge is actually not cooling and staying at room temperature, these would include;
Poor Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for the efficient operation of a wine fridge. If the ventilation vents are blocked or obstructed, it can lead to inadequate airflow, causing the fridge to struggle to reach the desired temperature. Common culprits for poor ventilation include placing the wine fridge too close to walls, cabinets, or other appliances.
Solution: Ensure that there is sufficient space around the wine fridge for airflow. Leave a gap of at least a few inches between the appliance and any surrounding surfaces. Clean the ventilation vents regularly to prevent dust or debris buildup.
Overcrowding: Overloading your wine fridge with too many bottles can impede airflow and hinder cooling performance. When shelves are packed tightly with bottles, air circulation is restricted, making it harder for the fridge to maintain cold temperatures evenly throughout the interior.
Solution: Avoid overcrowding your wine fridge. Leave adequate space between bottles to allow air to circulate freely. If necessary, remove some bottles to relieve the strain on the cooling system.
Faulty Door Seal: A damaged or worn-out door seal can allow cold air to escape from the wine fridge, resulting in inefficient cooling. Over time, the door seal may degrade due to wear and tear or accumulation of dirt and debris, compromising its ability to maintain a tight seal.
Solution: Inspect the door seal for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or gaps. Clean the seal regularly with a mild detergent to remove dirt and debris. If the seal is damaged, consider replacing it to ensure proper insulation.
Refrigerant Leak: In rare cases, a refrigerant leak can cause a wine fridge to lose its cooling capacity. A refrigerant leak may occur due to manufacturing defects, physical damage to the cooling system, or corrosion of components over time.
Solution: If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a qualified technician or the manufacturer for professional inspection and repair. Attempting to repair a refrigerant leak yourself can be hazardous and may void the warranty.
Faulty Thermostat or Compressor: Issues with the thermostat or compressor can also prevent a wine fridge from getting cold. A malfunctioning thermostat may fail to regulate the temperature accurately, while a faulty compressor may struggle to maintain sufficient cooling power.
Solution: If you've ruled out other possible causes and your wine fridge still isn't cooling properly, it's likely a problem with the thermostat or compressor. In such cases, it's best to seek professional assistance from a certified technician who can diagnose the issue and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.
If you need assistance diagnosing your wine fridge problems in the UK please contact us via live chat or drop into our London store. If you need help purchasing a new freestanding wine fridge or built-in wine fridge please get in touch.