Setting up a wine cellar at home is an exciting step for any wine lover, but it comes with a crucial decision: choosing the right wine cellar cooling unit. Whether you're transforming a spare room, closet, or custom-built cellar, your wine’s longevity depends on proper temperature and humidity control.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to select the ideal cooling system based on your space, collection size, and installation needs—with real examples from the trusted Breezaire collection.

Why Your Cooling Unit Matters

Wine isn’t just stored—it’s aged. And it needs a stable environment to mature properly:

  • Temperature: ~55°F (13°C)

  • Humidity: 50–70%

  • Minimal vibration

  • Controlled air circulation

Choosing the wrong unit can cause corks to dry out, wine to spoil, or lead to fluctuations that ruin the flavor. Let’s find the right fit for your cellar.

Step 1: Measure Your Space (Cubic Feet)

The most important factor is the size of your wine cellar, measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). Multiply the width × height × depth of your space to determine what capacity your cooling unit needs to handle.

Quick Reference:

  • Small Cellars (<150 cu. ft.): Think wine cabinets or closets

  • Mid-Sized Cellars (150–500 cu. ft.): Pantry conversions, walk-ins

  • Large Cellars (500–1000+ cu. ft.): Dedicated rooms or basements

Step 2: Understand Cooling Unit Types

Through-the-Wall (Self-Contained)

All-in-one units you install directly through the wall. Vents into an adjacent space. Easier to install.

Best for: Smaller, enclosed spaces with a nearby venting room.

Example:

  • Breezaire WKL 1060 – Ideal for cabinets and compact cellars up to 140 cu. ft.

  • Breezaire WKL 3000 – Powerful option for larger cellars up to 650 cu. ft., featuring the Sentry III digital control system.

Split Systems

These units have two parts: the evaporator (placed inside the cellar) and the condenser (installed up to 50 feet away). Quieter and great for preserving room aesthetics.

Best for: Larger or upscale cellars where noise and heat need to be kept out of the room.

Examples:

  • Breezaire WKSL 2200 – Excellent for 265 cu. ft. enclosures where discreet cooling is key.

  • Breezaire WKSL 4000  – Built for larger wine rooms up to 1000 cu. ft., combining performance with flexible installation.

Step 3: Know Your Installation Needs

Ask yourself:

  • Do I have access to vent a self-contained unit into an adjacent space?

  • Do I need quiet operation? (Go split system!)

  • Will aesthetics or layout limit my placement options?

Pro tip: Breezaire systems are designed to be easy to install for HVAC professionals, especially with their bottle probe option and Sentry III+ control system.

Final Tips Before You Buy

  • Overestimate slightly – Better to have a unit with more capacity than less.

  • Check power supply – Most Breezaire units operate on 115V standard outlets.

  • Plan for growth – If your collection is expanding, future-proof your space.

In Summary

Choosing the right wine cellar cooling unit is key to preserving the integrity and value of your collection. Breezaire offers a variety of models—each crafted for a specific kind of wine lover and cellar setup.

Ready to protect your investment?
 👉 Explore our full Breezaire collection here.