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Troubleshooting for a Thermoelectric Wine Cooler

Amy Kingston

Thermoelectric wine coolers use a thermoelectric system to chill bottles of wine. Vibrations can disturb the sediment in wine. A thermoelectric system does not cause the bottles to vibrate like a compressor-powered cooling system.

If your thermoelectric wine cooler fails to operate properly, troubleshoot it to repair common problems and resolve minor issues. You may avoid the cost of an unnecessary service call.

No Power

  1. Plug the wine cooler in fully. Check household fuses or breakers. Replace blown fuses or reset tripped breakers, if needed.

  2. Inspect the power cord. If the power cord is visibly damaged, call for service. Replacement of power cords should be performed by an authorized service technician.

  3. Plug the wine cooler into a different outlet. Low voltage at the outlet will prevent the wine cooler from working.

Not Cooling

  1. Move the unit to a cooler area. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight. If the room temperature is too high, the wine cooler will not cool effectively.

  2. Turn the temperature dial to the lowest temperature setting. Wait 24 hours for the wine cooler to reach the desired temperature.

  3. Move the wine cooler to allow a minimum clearance of 2 inches on each side and 4 inches in the back.

  4. Turn the wine cooler off and inspect the fan. If the fan is not properly connected, call for service.

Noises

  1. Place the wine cooler on a level surface if the unit makes a vibrating noise.

  2. Listen for a popping or crackling sound. This noise is due to contraction and expansion of the inner walls as the temperature changes inside the wine cooler. This sound is normal and does not require service.

  3. Call for service if the wine cooler makes a grinding or squealing noise. This may indicate a problem with the fan motor.

Door Does Not Close Properly

  1. Place the wine cooler on a level surface. If the wine cooler is not level, the door will not close properly.

  2. Wipe the door gasket with a damp cloth. A dirty door gasket prevents the door from sealing properly.

  3. Remove and reinstall the shelves. Improperly positioned shelves obstruct the door and prevent it from closing.

The Drip Cap

  • Thermoelectric wine coolers use a thermoelectric system to chill bottles of wine.
  • A thermoelectric system does not cause the bottles to vibrate like a compressor-powered cooling system.
  • Plug the wine cooler in fully.
  • If the fan is not properly connected, call for service.
  • Place the wine cooler on a level surface.
  • If the wine cooler is not level, the door will not close properly.
  • Remove and reinstall the shelves.