June 10, 2025
Wine Cellar Cooling Units for Builds—Ducted, Split or DIY?
Planning a new wine cellar? Compare today’s ducted, split and DIY cooling solutions, see who each option suits, and learn why Panthaire focuses exclusively on concealed ducted systems for modern cellars.
A new wine cellar starts with one critical choice: how you’ll keep bottles at a steady 55 °F all year. Search data shows most owners narrow options to three approaches—through‑wall DIY units, commercial split systems, or fully ducted equipment. Use this guide to see which path fits your project and why many builds choose ducted cooling for a quieter, cleaner look.
1. Quick Comparison Table
Through‑wall DIY
- Audible presence: noticeable fan and compressor noise inside the cellar
- Look: large grille remains visible on the wall
- Typical hardware budget: $2 k – $4 k (installation extra)
- Best suited to: first‑time hobby cellars where minor noise and aesthetics are less critical
Split System
- Audible presence: fan can be heard in the cellar; compressor sits outside
- Look: evaporator box mounted on an interior wall or ceiling
- Typical hardware budget: $5 k – $8 k (plus HVAC installation)
- Best suited to: basement retrofits or garage builds that accept some visible equipment
Fully Ducted (e.g., Panthaire APEX)
- Audible presence: practically silent at the display area
- Look: only discreet supply and return grilles are visible
- Typical hardware budget: $6 k – $11 k (ductwork and pro install required)
- Best suited to: modern, showcase cellars where sound and aesthetics are top priorities
Prices refer to equipment only; installation costs vary by region and contractor.
/hWhen a Through‑Wall Unit Makes Sense
2. When a Through-The-Wall Unit Makes Senses
- You’re converting a spare closet or under‑stairs nook.
- Budget is tight and occasional fan noise isn’t a deal‑breaker.
- Adjacent room can accept warm exhaust air.
Trade‑offs: visible grille, higher sound level, limited capacity.
3. Split Systems—The Retrofit Favourite
- Evaporator mounts inside the cellar; compressor lives outdoors.
- Reduces heat in living areas compared with through‑wall designs.
- Good choice for garages or basements where some equipment visibility is acceptable.
Watch‑outs: you’ll still see and hear the fan inside the room, and refrigerant lines need a licensed HVAC tech.
4. Why 2025 Projects Trend Toward Fully Ducted Cooling
Homeowners and architects increasingly request silent, concealed solutions . A ducted layout moves the entire cooling unit outside the cellar, leaving only slim grilles on show. Benefits include:
- Virtually silent experience during tastings.
- Clean sightlines for glass wine walls and feature lighting.
- Easier service access; technicians work in a utility area, not over prized bottles.
Panthaire builds only ducted APEX units because this architecture delivers the calm, uninterrupted presentation modern cellars demand.
5. Choosing Capacity the Right Way
Never guess. Measure L × W × H, then adjust for glass surfaces and insulation. Use Panthaire’s free online calculator or ask our team for a sizing check. Correct capacity prevents short cycling and premature wear.
6. Installation Snapshot
- Place the APEX unit in a utility room, ceiling void, or adjacent crawl space.
- Use the factory‑supplied insulated ducts—avoid sharp bends to keep airflow smooth.
- Position supply and return grilles on opposite sides of the cellar for balanced air.
7. Final Thought
Whether you choose a starter DIY kit or a concealed ducted system, planning climate control first saves time, money and wines down the road. If a silent, equipment‑free display is your goal, Panthaire’s ducted approach is purpose‑built for that vision.
FAQ
Q: Do I need professional installation for a ducted cooling unit?
A: Yes. Duct layout and refrigerant connections require a licensed HVAC technician to ensure warranty coverage.
Q: How do I decide between split and ducted?
A: If equipment visibility and room noise are non‑issues, a split can work. If you want a near‑silent cellar with no hardware on show, ducted is the better fit.
Q: What size unit suits a 1,000 cu ft modern cellar with one glass wall?
A: Roughly 3,500 BTU, but run your exact dimensions through our calculator for confirmation.
Q: Are Wi‑Fi controllers worth adding?
A: Remote alerts help protect wine during power outages or travel; many buyers consider them essential.
Q: How often should ducts be inspected?
A: Check annually for loose straps or insulation gaps to keep airflow efficient and quiet.
