Breezaire Cabinet System

Breezaire is one of the best choices for residential wine cellars thanks to its reliable through-the-wall cooling units. They’re quiet, easy to install, and specifically designed to maintain the stable conditions needed for wine aging. The Breezaire WKL Series is especially popular for small to medium-sized cellars.

Sizing depends on the cubic footage of your cellar, not just the bottle count. Breezaire offers models for a range of cellar sizes—from the compact WKCE 1060 for cabinets and small rooms to larger WKL models that can handle spaces up to about 2,000 cubic feet. Proper insulation and vapor barriers are essential for accurate sizing.

The most common issues are poor ventilation, clogged or dirty filters, and incorrect unit sizing. These problems often cause the unit to run constantly without reaching the desired temperature. Regular maintenance—such as cleaning coils and ensuring clear airflow—helps prevent these breakdowns.

Required space depends on capacity and installation. Breezaire units are mounted through the wall, so they don’t take up cellar floor space, but they do need proper clearance behind the wall for ventilation. As a guideline, a 500-bottle cellar typically requires 100–150 square feet, while a 2,000-bottle cellar may need 250–300 square feet, depending on racking.

A through-the-wall self-contained unit, such as Breezaire’s WKL Series, is generally the most affordable option. These units cost less than ducted or split systems, are easier to install, and require minimal labor. Unlike portable AC units, Breezaire systems regulate both temperature and humidity, protecting your wine investment.

All wines benefit from proper cooling, but red wines in particular age best at about 55°F with stable humidity. Breezaire units are engineered to maintain this precise range, protecting cork integrity, preventing oxidation, and ensuring reds and whites develop as intended.

A cellar that holds 2,000 bottles usually ranges from 300 to 400 square feet, depending on ceiling height and racking design. Cooling a cellar of this size generally requires a higher-capacity Breezaire unit or even a step up to larger commercial-grade systems.

First, calculate your wine cellar’s cubic footage (length × width × height). Then match that measurement with Breezaire’s model capacity guidelines. Keep in mind that factors like insulation, glass walls, lighting, and external heat sources can increase cooling demand, so sizing up may be necessary.

For many homeowners, a standard wine fridge holds between 30 and 100 bottles. Breezaire, however, specializes in cellar cooling units rather than standalone fridges. Their systems are built to handle rooms as small as 100 cubic feet (cabinet size) up to more than 2,000 cubic feet.

A Breezaire cooling unit typically lasts 10–15 years with proper care. Regular cleaning, correct sizing, and adequate ventilation help maximize lifespan. Units placed in poorly insulated or oversized spaces may wear out sooner because they’re forced to work harder than designed.