Wine Cooler Not Cooling? How to Repair Your Wine Fridge
You know how important it is for wine to be maintained at a specific temperature, minimizing sediment disturbance and maximizing taste. So when your wine cooler suddenly stops cooling, something needs to be done, and quickly.
The first thing to do is determine which type of cooling system it uses. A compressor system is the same technology as a regular refrigerator; a thermoelectric system uses the Peltier effect to lower temperature. The compressor system uses a refrigerant and relies on mechanical energy while the thermoelectric system pumps heat out of the interior using electrical energy. Here are common problems and their solutions for each.
Compressor System Problems
Condenser Fan
If the fan in a compressor cooling system stops working, other elements can overheat. In time, that heat can transfer to the interior of your wine cooler. Repairing the condenser fan may be as simple as eliminating built-up dust and debris. If that is not the problem and it is still not spinning freely after thorough cleaning, the fan needs replacement. It is possible to do so on your own, though you may want to call the professionals at Dave’s Appliance.
Broken Evaporator
If the evaporator doesn’t work, the unit won’t produce cold air even if the compressor is running properly at full capacity. The evaporator also uses a fan, and built-up dust and debris could be the culprit here too. Likewise, there may be some sort of ice blockage that would be apparent when you examine it. Repair may simply entail cleaning and letting the ice melt, then plugging it back in. If the blades of the fan are actually bent, it will need to be replaced.
Defective Thermostat
Your thermostat is responsible for the supply of power to the condenser, evaporator fan, and compressor. The thermostat must be properly calibrated to ensure that your wine is preserved in the best possible way. Unfortunately, a defective thermostat can’t be repaired; you’ll have to replace it entirely. While it is possible to do this yourself, it is best to call in one of the experts at Dave’s Appliance. The procedure itself is complicated and the thermostat is just too important to rely on your own amateur efforts.
Thermoelectric System Problems
Room Temperature
The Peltier modules conduct heat out of the cabinet in relation to the outside environment. If the room itself is too hot, the Peltier module can’t do its job properly. It is recommended that this kind of wine cooler should be kept in a room that doesn’t exceed 75ºF. The obvious fix to this situation is either to move the wine cooler to a cooler room, or to ensure that the room it is in never gets warmer than 75ºF.
Improper Ventilation
Because of the way it conducts heat out of the system, a thermoelectric wine cooler needs clearance from surrounding objects. Make sure that it is positioned away from walls and other objects, and never place things on top of it. If it is a countertop cooler, don’t have it near the toaster or microwave, which generates heat.
Fan Issue
Thermoelectric wine coolers also have a fan that conducts hot air out of the cabinet and it can easily disconnect. As with the compressor system fans, clean off any accumulated dust and debris. If it still doesn’t function, you may need to replace the fan.
Your wine cooler is an investment in keeping your wine at the optimal temperature. When it is malfunctioning, your wine is at risk. Dave’s Appliance can remedy the issue quickly and easily.
