How to Install a Breezaire Ductless Wine Cooling System

Q: Do I need a professional to install the WKSL system?

Yes. WKSL systems involve refrigerant handling, drain line placement, and duct routing—all of which require licensed professionals to meet code and warranty requirements.

Q: Can I hide all parts of the WKSL cooling system?

Yes. The evaporator can be mounted in a remote ceiling or attic, and the condenser lives outdoors. Vents are the only visible elements in your wine cellar.

Q: How far can the ductwork run?

Ducting should be less than 25 feet with minimal turns. Longer runs reduce cooling efficiency and increase system strain.

Q: What’s the difference between WKSL and WKL?

WKSL systems are split and ducted, while WKL units are through-the-wall and self-contained. WKSL is quieter and more discreet, but requires a pro.

Q: Will the system drip or cause moisture damage?

No, not if installed properly. The evaporator includes a drain line for moisture removal. A level install and proper drainage eliminate water issues.

🍷 Thinking About a Ductless Wine Cooling System?

By Jim Hopper, Wine Cooling Expert

Not every wine cellar is built the same—and neither are the cooling systems that support them. If you’re working with a space where through-the-wall units aren’t practical, or if you're looking for a quieter, more discreet setup, a ductless wine cooling system like Breezaire’s WKSL Series may be the perfect fit.

This guide explains:

What a ductless cooling system is
What’s included in a WKSL setup
How to plan and install it step-by-step
Whether it’s the right choice for your cellar

If you're just beginning your cellar design or need help planning insulation and airflow, start here:
👉 Wine Cellar Installation Guide: How to Design & Cool with Breezaire USA →

1. What Is a Ductless Wine Cooling System?

Ductless cooling systems are a type of split system, meaning the cooling components are divided into two parts:

Evaporator Unit: Installed inside or near the wine cellar
Condenser Unit: Installed in a separate space, often outside

Breezaire’s WKSL Series is a premium ductless system designed specifically for wine cellars. It connects the fan/coil (evaporator) unit in the cellar and the condenser, up to 50 feet away, with a refrigerant line set (it is not designed for ductwork), giving you more freedom in placement and aesthetics.

Unlike self-contained units (like the WKL), ductless systems don’t require wall venting into adjacent rooms.

2. Advantages of Going Ductless

Wondering if a WKSL system is right for you? Here are a few reasons why homeowners and cellar pros love ductless cooling:

Whisper-Quiet Operation: The noisiest parts of the system stay far from the wine room.
Sleek, Low-Profile Design: Only the compact fan/coil unit sits in the cellar; the condenser stays outside the wine room.
Ideal for Design-Focused Builds: Perfect for high-end, glass-front, or display cellars where looks matter.
No Warm Exhaust in Your Home: Since the condenser vents outside, it won’t heat up an interior room.

Modern wine cellar cooled by a ductless Breezaire WKSL system with no visible cooling unit

3. Key Components of a WKSL System

Here’s what’s typically included in a Breezaire WKSL setup:

Evaporator (Indoor Unit): Cools and circulates cellar air
Condenser (Outdoor Unit): Releases heat outside
Drain Line: Removes condensation
Thermostat Controller: Monitors and sets cellar temperature
Refrigerant Line Set: Connects indoor and outdoor units (installed by a pro)

Breezaire WKSL system parts including evaporator, condenser, and ductwork shown together

4. Planning the Install: Location, Line Set & Electrical

📍 Evaporator Location

Mount the indoor evaporator unit:

Inside the wine cellar
Within 50 feet of the condenser location
With access to a safe drain outlet

🌬️ No Duct Routing

Breezaire WKSL systems are not designed for ductwork; the fan/coil unit cools the cellar directly

⚡ Electrical Requirements

WKSL units are hard-wired to an adequately sized 110 V AC electrical source
Always consult a licensed electrician for circuit planning

💧 Drainage & Line Set

Use gravity or pump-assisted drain lines
All refrigerant work must be performed by a licensed HVAC professional

Illustration of ceiling-mounted Breezaire WKSL evaporator and duct routing

5. Installation Overview: Step-by-Step

Here’s how a WKSL ductless install generally works (by a qualified refrigeration technician):

Choose the fan/coil (evaporator) location inside the cellar
Mount evaporator unit and connect condensate drain
Place condenser unit outdoors or in mechanical room, up to 50 feet away
The technician connects the line set, charges the system with refrigerant and completes the electrical connection
The technician starts the system and checks airflow and temperature

📄 Breezaire includes full installation specs in the WKSL manual. Always consult your installer before selecting locations.

📚 Installation Companion:
👉 WKSL Ductless Install PDF Manual →

6. WKSL vs WKL: Which One Should You Choose?

Not sure if you need ductless or self-contained? Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Breezaire WKL (Through-Wall)	Breezaire WKSL (Ductless Split)
Installation Style	Mounted through cellar wall	Fan/coil in the cellar, remote condenser (no ductwork)
Noise Level	Moderate (inside wall)	Quiet (remote condenser)
Aesthetic Impact	Visible in cellar wall	Compact fan/coil in the cellar
DIY Friendly?	Yes (basic tools)	No (requires HVAC pro)
Exhaust Location	Vents into home	Vents outdoors
Best For	Simple cellars, DIY setups	High-end, display cellars

✅ Conclusion: Is WKSL Right for Your Wine Cellar?

If you’re building a wine cellar where noise reduction, discreet aesthetics, and premium control matter, the Breezaire WKSL Series offers an excellent solution. While it does require professional installation, the result is a quiet, elegant, and efficient cellar cooling experience.

📦 Ready to plan your ductless system?
📞 Call Us: 1 (800) 702-1381
📧 Email: support@breezaireusa.com