Do I need a Climate Control System for my Wine Cellar?
When making a decision to go with a climate control system or having a passive cellar, there are several things to consider.
- Am I a collector… do I buy wines that I will want to save for long periods of time before drinking or do I go through my wines quickly and rotate my bottles?
- If I find a wine that I like… do I buy in bulk to make sure it will be available to me in the future?
- Am I willing to prepare the walls, floor, and ceiling of my wine cellar area with the proper insulation and vapor barrier that is required to build a climate controlled room? This must be done before any cooling unit can be installed.

The original wine cellars were formed in underground caves which maintained a very constant cool temperature and humidity year round. This is an excellent way to preserve your wine collection… if you happen to have a cave attached to your home. Most of us do not. Therefore, controlling the climate in your wine cellar with a mechanical system will allow you to recreate a cave-like atmosphere and keep your wine collection good for years.
Basements can sometimes work for a passive cellar… in some parts of the country. However, before you build your wine cellar, monitor the temperature and humidity of the area throughout the year… especially in the hottest months, to see what kind of fluctuation in temperature and humidity you find. Then make your decision.
The ideal temperature to store all of your wines is approximately 55 degrees. I am not talking about drinking temperature… but long term storage. The humidity in your wine cellar should be between 50 and 70 percent. If it goes below 50 percent your corks could dry out and air could enter the bottles destroying your wine. If it goes above 70 percent, mold or mildew could occur and your labels may begin to peel off of your bottles. Constant temperature and humidity will keep your wines maturing properly for years. It is the fluctuation of both the temperature and humidity that can damage your wines.
How do I Choose the Correct Climate Control System?
The first step to determine what will work for you. Where is your wine cellar located in your home? Can a self contained unit work for you or will you need a split system? You may not have all of the answers. Here is where you should consult a Wine Cellar Specialist. They will work with you to determine what unit will work best for you. They will also do a heat load calculation to make sure the proper size unit is recommended.
Types of Wine Cellar Cooling Units
Self-Contained or “Through the Wall” Units
These units are the most economical and easiest to install. They are designed to mount between the studs of an existing wall, and they do not require a licensed HVAC/R installation technician. One end of the system blows cool air in to the cellar, and the other end absorbs heat from the cellar and exhausts the heat into an area adjacent to the cellar. The adjoining room where the exhaust is sent must be at least 2 times the size of the cellar. Unless… the exhaust is ducted into another area. Some systems provide this option. Self-contained units will make more noise than a split or ducted system.
Ducted Self-Contained Units
A ducted unit has more installation options than a self-contained unit. The unit may be installed up to 25 ducted feet from the cellar, with the cool air flowing to the cellar and the heat exhaust ducted to the outside of the home. Ducting is also a more aesthetic choice for wine collectors who do not want to see a cooling unit in the cellar. Noise from the unit will be reduced or eliminated, depending on the installation.
Split Systems
The Split System is often the most efficient way to cool a cellar. Cooling unit condensers are typically noisy and require significant space for ventilation. In most cases the cellar location does not include an area for these functions. By splitting the cooling system, the condenser can be placed in a space better suited for heat and noise dissipation while the quiet evaporator is inside, or near, the cellar. A licensed HVAC/R technician is required for the installation.
- Ductless Split Systems – The evaporator is inside the cellar while the condenser is in another room or outdoors. They are connected via 2 copper lines.
- Ducted Split System – The evaporator is in another location indoors and the condenser is either indoors or outdoors. They are connected with ductwork which allows the cool air to flow into the wine cellar through a vent, usually in the ceiling, and carries the warm air out via a return air duct.
US Cellar Systems
US Cellar Systems specialize in “Split Systems”. They have both ductless and ducted systems. They are designed for both residential and commercial wine cellars. These units are customized with the correctly sized evaporators and condensers for each particular project and are a commercial grade quality.
A US Cellar split system allows the matching of components to the specific requirements of the job for operating economy and enhanced humidity balance. Six different series of split systems are offered, depending on where in the cellar you want to place the coil/fan. Wall mount options are available, as are ceiling mounted coils whichever is necessary to cover the area properly. Elongated cellars could have more than one fan blowing in multiple directions to keep temperature stable throughout.
Contact your Wine Cellar Specialists to do a “heat load calculation” to determine the correct size needed for your room.
All Split Systems must be installed by a licensed HVAC/R contractor.
On any US Cellar Split System, if the condenser is placed outdoors, and the weather gets below 40 degrees at any time, a low ambient kit installed at the factory should be added when ordering. An outdoor cover should also be added with outdoor locations. Line sets, duct work and/or refrigerant are not included with the Split Systems.
CellarPro Systems
Cellar Pro’s “self-contained” or “through the wall” units began as a way to replace the cabinet model of cooling unit that the company had used in the past. By upgrading the components, adding new features and improving the performance, they were able to create a better and more reliable unit. The 1800 series was created for cabinets and small wine cellars. Then, the VSi and VSx series was born… for wine cellars of up to 1500 cubic feet. Both the intake and exhaust of the Cellar Pro systems can be ducted up to 50 feet away when combined with the optional ducting kits.
CellarPro cooling units allow users to adjust the level of humidity inside their cellars. By simply changing settings on CellarPro’s control panel, relative humidity can be increased or decreased inside the wine cellar.
All CellarPro cooling units feature precision electronic thermostats and digital displays for viewing temperatures inside wine cellars. In addition, CellarPro cooling units log high and low temperatures inside the cellar. This information also can be viewed on the digital display.
CellarPro cooling units are programmed to provide both audible and visual alarms when temperatures exceed preprogrammed high and low temperatures. In addition, CellarPro cooling units have alarms that indicate when maintenance is required, as well as component and system failures.
CellarPro cooling units are designed to periodically measure the temperature of the evaporator coils and turn off the compressor until the temperature of the coils rise above freezing. This defrost cycle prevents ice from building up on the coils, and is designed to extend the life of the cooling unit.
Whisperkool
Whisperkool offers a variety of products for most wine cellar needs. From the “self-contained” or “through the wall” style units to ductless split systems, there are several varieties to choose from. Some systems are meant to be vented indoors, others can be vented to extreme hot or cold conditions, yet others can be ducted into your wine cellar from up to 25 feet away. From small cabinets to wine cellars of up to 2000 cubic feet, Whisperkool has a unit to fit your needs. Contact your Wine Cellar Specialist with help to determine which unit is right for you.
Slimline 2500 The Slimline is WhisperKOOL’s quietest interior venting self contained unit available, designed to mount in a living area. Developed to fit into the often unused space between the cellar door and ceiling, giving the collector maximum storage capacity. The system is equipped with WhisperKOOL’s Platinum Series controller utilizing Advanced System Protection Technology. This features a series of strategically placed monitoring probes, which insure efficient performance and long cooling unit life. With efficiency in mind, the Slimline uses less power than most traditional units while having the ability to cool cellars up to 350 cubic feet.
SC Series Small The SC Series 2000i, 3000i and 4000i are self-contained through the wall systems that replace the previous XLT units. These three units are 14.25”W X 15.75” H X 17.5” D. With proper insulation and vapor barrier installed and an exhaust environment that does not exceed 85 degrees F., the 2000i will work for cellar sizes up to 300 cubic ft., the 3000i will work for sizes up to 650 cubic feet, and the 4000i will work for cellar sizes up to 1000 cubic feet. Always consult with a wine cellar professional before purchasing a cooling unit for your cellar. These are average room sizes and many other factors can have a bearing on the size of unit you will need for your room. The unit is designed to fit between standard wall studs and a single piece mounting bracket eliminates the need for a support shelf. The SC Series is an economical cooling solution, designed for cellar enthusiasts who are on a budget. The SC Series is equipped with a liquid measuring thermostat to accurately maintain wine temperature.
SC Series BigThe SC Series 6000i and 8000i are self-contained through the walls systems that replace the previous XLT units. These two units are 14.25” W X 22.5” H X 21.64” D. With proper insulation and vapor barrier installed and an exhaust environment that does not exceed 85 degrees F., the 6000i will work for cellar sizes up to 1500 cubic feet and the 8000I will work for sizes up to 2000 cubic feet. Always consult with a wine cellar professional before purchasing a cooling unit for your cellar. These are average room sizes and many other factors can have a bearing on the size of unit you will need for your room. The unit is designed to fit between standard wall studs and a single piece mounting bracket eliminates the need for a support shelf. The SC Series is an economical cooling solution, designed for cellar enthusiasts who are on a budget. The SC Series is equipped with a liquid measuring thermostat to accurately maintain wine temperature.
Platinum Mini Split WhisperKOOL has a solution to the most stubborn of small cellar cooling roadblocks.
This new system cools up to 500 cubic feet with the compressor located in a remote location and the evaporator (cold side) mounted in the cellar. Since space in a small cellar is vital, the all new Platinum Mini-Split offers a compact size paired with powerful efficiency. The unit is equipped with our Platinum Series controller utilizing Advanced System Protection Technology. This features a series of strategically placed monitoring probes, which insure efficient performance and long cooling unit life. The controller is easy to operate and has features such as adjustable humidity control, energy saving modes, quick chill mode and anti-frost function. The Platinum Mini-Split gives anyone the opportunity to have a top-quality wine cellar.
Platinum Split The Platinum Split sets the new standard for in-cellar split systems. This completely new design improves airflow efficiency 25% and operates 10% quieter, all while being 35% smaller than our previous split system evaporator. The system continues to use our liquid bottle probe for monitoring the actual temperature of the wine to ensure the wine is being kept at 55°F.
Key Features :
•Quiet and efficient operation
•Advanced electronic control system
•Liquid bottle probe
•Humidity control
•Energy saving mode
•Alarm capabilities
•Flexible installation
•55F temperature differential
•Condensing unit can be placed outdoors w/optional housing
Platinum Split Fully Ducted The Fully Ducted Platinum Split is WhisperKool’s newest model to the split line-up. Ducting a Split creates a virtually silent cellar environment and allows for maximum installation options. The system uses our liquid bottle probe for monitoring the actual temperature of the wine to ensure the wine is being kept at 55°F. The evaporator portion may be installed up to 25 duct feet from the cellar.
Key Features :
•Virtually silent operation
•Advanced electronic control system
•Liquid bottle probe
•Humidity control
•Energy saving mode
•Alarm capabilities
•Flexible installation
•55F temperature differential
•Condensing unit can be placed outdoors w/optional housing
Fully Ducted Extreme The Fully Ducted Extreme Series units can be positioned up to 25 ducted feet from the cellar, creating a noise-free cellar environment. Fully ducted installation provides many installation options, allowing you to not only put the unit in more remote areas of the home but to also have full control of where the exhaust air vents to. This series features an advanced liquid temperature controller with a remote LED display (which can be placed up to 300 line feet from the unit) and electronic thermostat. The systems are designed to maintain 55F and 50-70% relative humidity.
Extreme SERIES
The Extreme Series offers 3-speed fans to truly put full control in your hands. With the system set in the Low setting, you can maintain a 55°F cellar at an ultra quiet 51 decibels for the 3500ti and 5000ti, or 57 decibels for the 8000ti. This fully featured line also includes WhisperKOOL’s most advanced controller to keep all of the cellar vitals in check. Utilizing a series of monitoring probes inside the unit, the controller is able to ensure efficient high performance and long cooling unit life. Acceptable for mounting through exterior walls and can operate in a 110°F exhaust environments. Maintain 55°F and 50-70% relative humidity in a cellars up to 800cu. Ft. (3500ti), 1250 cu. Ft. (5000ti),or 2000 cu. Ft. (8000ti) in size.
Extreme 3500ti cools cellars up to 800 cubic feet using selectable 3-speed fans with maximum energy efficiency. This unit can operate in temperatures from 0 to 110 degrees F exhaust environments. External grill cover is highly recommended. 14.25”w X 15.75” h X 28” d.
Extreme 3500ti cools cellars up to 800 cubic feet using selectable 3-speed fans with maximum energy efficiency. This unit can operate in temperatures from 0 to 110 degrees F exhaust environments. External grill cover is highly recommended. 14.25”w X 15.75” h X 28” d.
Extreme 5000ti Cool cellars up to 1000 and 2000 cubic feet with the ability to fine tune the system to cellar needs. The Extreme 5000ti is a completely new system, built from the ground up for efficiency without sacrificing the power the Extreme models are known for. User selectable 3 speed fan system. 25% increase in cooling efficiency over the Platinum 4000 by redesigning coil airflow and size. Redesigned Anti-Frost functionality.
Extreme 8000 ti The Extreme 8000ti introduces variable speed fans to WhisperKOOL’s most advanced and powerful self-contained cooling system. Utilizing variable speed fans this high capacity unit can maintain optimal cellar conditions while operating at a quiet 57 decibels. The Extreme is designed to fit between standard wall studs for simple "through-the-wall" installation with minimum modification to existing wall structures. Extremes are acceptable for mounting through an exterior wall and can operate in a 110°F exhaust environment. The 8000ti includes our most advanced controller utilizing Advanced System Protection Technology. This features a series of strategically placed monitoring probes, which insure efficient performance and long cooling unit life. This system is designed to maintain 55°F and 50-70% relative humidity in a cellar up to 2000cu. ft. in size.
CellarCoolCX
The CellarCool CX Series incorporates advanced cooling technologies and simplistic design, at an economic price. Designed with a unique concept of strategically angled fans and louvers that create Dynamic Airflow, providing efficient and even cooling throughout the cellar. Featuring a Heat Exchange Condensate Manage¬ment System that uses excess condensate on the “hot” side of the unit to act as a coolant, this also evaporates some of the condensate in the process. Equipped with a best-in-class 30°F temperature variance, your wines will stay at 55°F even when the exhaust area reaches 85°F. The systems are designed for simple through-the-wall installation, utilizing mounting brackets to eliminate the need for a support shelf. All CellarCool wine cooling units are tested and calibrated to ensure their reliability, longevity and durability in creating the ideal environment for wine storage and preservation.






