The Allavino Built-In Wine Refrigerator, Model VSW15471D-2, is designed for the optimal storage and preservation of wine. This appliance functions as a dual-zone wine cellar, allowing for the independent temperature control of two separate compartments, which is ideal for simultaneously storing different types of wine, such as red and white, at their respective preferred temperatures. The unit is designed for both freestanding and built-in (fully recessed) installation, offering flexibility in placement within various living spaces or kitchen designs.
Function Description
The primary function of this device is to maintain precise and stable temperatures for wine storage. It features a control panel located on the front of each zone, equipped with buttons and an LED display for easy operation and monitoring. Users can power the unit on or off, adjust the temperature in 1-degree increments, and switch the temperature display between Celsius and Fahrenheit. The dual-zone capability ensures that wines requiring different storage conditions can be accommodated within the same unit without compromising quality.
The control panel includes several symbols that provide visual feedback on the unit's status. A "snowflake" symbol indicates when the unit is actively cooling, while a "fan" symbol shows when the evaporator fan is running. There's also a symbol for rapid cooling (120Hz) and another for defrosting. A lock symbol indicates when the screen is locked, preventing accidental changes to settings. A light symbol shows the status of the interior LED lighting, and a bell symbol flashes to indicate an alarm condition. An internal settings symbol is also present for advanced configurations.
The wine refrigerator is designed to operate within an ambient temperature range of 32°F to 100°F (0°C to 38°C). Operating outside this range may affect the unit's performance and lead to temperature fluctuations inside. The unit is equipped with a memory function that automatically saves previous temperature settings in the event of a power interruption, ensuring that the desired conditions are restored once power returns.
Usage Features
The Allavino Wine Refrigerator offers several user-friendly features to enhance the wine storage experience. The interior is illuminated by LED lighting, which can be turned on or off using a dedicated button on the control panel. This lighting system is highly customizable, offering 9 different color options (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Cyan, Blue, Purple, White, and an All Color Rotation mode) and 5 different brightness levels (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%). Users can easily select their preferred color and brightness through the control panel, and the unit is programmed to remember these settings even after being powered off. The interior light also automatically turns on when the door is opened and off when closed, providing convenience and energy efficiency.
The unit features multiple wine shelves designed to hold bottles securely. These shelves are removable, facilitating easy cleaning and maintenance. To remove a shelf, it can be pulled out as far as possible, and then levers on each side near the rollers can be manipulated to disengage the shelf from its tracks. The racking configuration is designed to accommodate a significant number of bottles, with specific shelves capable of holding different quantities, allowing for a maximum bottle capacity of 172 bottles. Users are advised to disperse bottles evenly throughout the unit to ensure balanced weight distribution and consistent temperature across all areas. It is also recommended to avoid pulling out more than one sliding shelf at a time to prevent the appliance from tipping forward.
For security, the unit includes a lock, which can be engaged to prevent unauthorized access to the wine collection. The door also features an alarm system: if the door remains open for 3 minutes, an alarm will sound. This alarm can be silenced by pressing any button on the control panel or will automatically cease after 5 minutes. The fan operation is also linked to the door, stopping when the door is opened and resuming after 1 minute, contributing to energy efficiency and noise reduction.
Maintenance Features
Maintaining the Allavino Wine Refrigerator is straightforward, with several features and recommendations to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Regular cleaning of the interior and exterior is advised. For the interior, a solution of warm water and baking soda (approximately 2 tablespoons per quart of water) is recommended for cleaning surfaces, while shelves can be washed with a mild detergent solution. When cleaning near controls or electrical parts, it's important to wring out excess water from the sponge or cloth. The exterior cabinet can be cleaned with warm water and a mild liquid detergent, then rinsed and wiped dry with a soft cloth.
To maximize the product's lifespan, a complete internal and external cleaning is recommended yearly. Additionally, the front grill and back of the unit should be dusted twice a year, ensuring the power is off before cleaning.
When moving the wine cellar, several precautions are suggested to prevent damage. All bottles and loose items (such as shelves) should be removed and securely taped down. The adjustable leveling legs should be raised to the base to avoid damage during transport. The appliance should be kept in an upright position, and its exterior protected with a blanket or similar item.
The manual also provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues, such as the unit not operating, not cooling sufficiently, or making excessive noise. These tips help users diagnose and resolve minor problems without needing a service call. For instance, if the unit is not cold enough, users are advised to check the temperature control setting, ensure the door is closed completely, and verify the door gasket is sealing properly. Error codes displayed on the screen, such as C1, U1, C2, U2, HH, LL, and DO, indicate specific issues like temperature sensor malfunctions or high/low temperature alarms, guiding users toward appropriate solutions.
The appliance is designed for easy handle installation, with clear steps provided for attaching the door handle using screws and bushings. Furthermore, the unit can be anchored to a wall for added stability, especially in areas prone to movement or for child safety. The anchoring process involves attaching brackets to the back of the appliance and to wall studs, then securing them with straps. This feature enhances safety and prevents accidental tipping.