This document serves as a user manual for Vintec wine cellars, specifically covering models V30SGME, V30SGMEBK, V30SGES3, and AL-V30SGE. These appliances are designed for storing and maturing wines under optimal conditions, replicating the environment of a natural cellar.
Function Description:
Vintec wine cellars are specialized refrigeration units designed to preserve and mature wines. They provide a stable temperature and humidity environment, crucial for the long-term storage and proper aging of various types of wines. The cellars are equipped with a compressor-based cooling system and internal fans to circulate air, ensuring a homogeneous temperature throughout the cabinet. They feature an "Auto-cycle" defrost system that automatically defrosts refrigerated surfaces, with condensation water being partially recycled to maintain the correct humidity level for natural corks. The units are also designed to offer ideal serving temperatures for different wine types, ranging from 6°C for sparkling wines to 20°C for vintage Bordeaux.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Refrigerant: The specified models use R600A (iso-butane) flammable refrigerant. For models AL/S3/BK and V30SGe, the quantity is 30g.
- Ambient Temperature Range: The wine cellar should be placed in an environment where the ambient temperature is between 5°C to 35°C to ensure optimal performance.
- Electrical Supply: Requires a standard 240 volt/10 amp power point (or according to different country specifications). A surge protector is advised due to sensitive electronic components susceptible to lightning and electricity supply faults.
- Power Cord Length: The power cord is 1.9m in length and is fixed on the right side at the back of the cabinet.
- Room Volume for Installation: The room for installing the appliance must be at least 1 cubic meter per 8 grams of refrigerant.
- Temperature Control: Electronic regulation with a digital display allows temperature settings to be adjusted from 6°C to 18°C in 1-degree Celsius increments. The thermostat maintains the temperature within a +/- 2.5°C range, resulting in an actual wine temperature fluctuation of 0.5°C to 1°C.
- Door: Equipped with a double-glazed glass door and a third internal acrylic layer to minimize condensation. The door is not totally sealed, allowing fresh air admission through the drainpipe.
- Ventilation: Compressor-run appliances require proper ventilation. A back spacer is supplied to ensure air circulation and heat evacuation at the rear. For "Built-in" models, 10mm clearance on sides and top, and 30mm at the rear is required. An air vent or grid (minimum 200mm x 40mm) must be cut out at the rear top or sides of the partitioning in hot climate zones for built-in installations.
- Dimensions (V30 models, freestanding):
- Front View: 893mm (width), 493mm (depth), with 200mm space required on each side.
- Side View: 1030mm (height), 830mm (cabinet height), 620mm (depth), 590mm (cabinet depth), with 30mm space at the top.
- Top View: 620mm (depth), with 30mm space at the front and 200mm space at the rear.
- Note: These dimensions are for freestanding models, and at least 200mm of space is required above and beside the cabinet.
Usage Features:
- Initial Setup: After unpacking, remove all protective materials. Allow 24 hours before switching on the wine cellar, leaving the door open to clear residual odors. Level the unit using the 4 adjustable feet (tighten back feet to maximum, adjust front feet).
- Turning On: Plug in and switch on the cellar by pressing the power button for a few seconds. A 3-5 minute delay is required before restarting if power is lost or the unit is unplugged.
- Temperature Adjustment: The desired cooling temperature can be set using the UP or DOWN buttons on the control panel. The LED display will flash during setting and then show the actual internal temperature. The "TEMP. SET LED" displays the set temperature, while the "DISPLAY LED" shows the internal temperature.
- Loading Wine Bottles:
- Distribute bottles evenly throughout the cellar to avoid "all on top" or "all below" loads.
- Adjustable wooden shelves can be removed or relocated to accommodate different bottle sizes or increase capacity by stacking.
- Maintain small gaps between walls and bottles for air circulation.
- Do not overload the cellar or stack more than 1.5 rows of standard 0.75L bottles per shelf.
- Avoid obstructing internal fans.
- Do not slide shelves outwards beyond fixed positions to prevent bottles from falling.
- Pull out only one loaded shelf at a time to prevent the cellar from tilting.
- Do not cover wooden shelves with foil or other materials, as this obstructs air circulation.
- Do not move the wine cellar while it is loaded with wines.
- Door Reversibility: Depending on the model and handle type, the door may be rotated 180 degrees or may require ordering a specific left or right opening door. Assistance is recommended due to the heavy glass door.
- Operating Noises: Normal operating noises include gurgling sounds from refrigerant flow, cracking/popping sounds from contraction/expansion of refrigerant gas, and fan operation sounds. These are considered normal and do not indicate a defect.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The manual implies regular cleaning, though specific instructions are not detailed in the provided excerpts.
- Troubleshooting: A troubleshooting guide is provided to address common issues such as the cellar not operating, not being cold enough, frequent on/off cycling, light not working, vibrations, excessive noise, or improper door closure.
- Service and Support: In case of malfunction, users are advised to unplug the unit and contact Vintec's after-sales service. Any intervention on the cold circuit or electrical circuit must be performed by a qualified technician. Unauthorized repairs will void the warranty.
- Warranty: The product comes with a warranty (24 months in Australia and New Zealand) covering faulty or defective parts or workmanship. Exclusions include cosmetic damage, damage from negligence or misuse, normal wear and tear, power surges, improper installation, insect infestation, and use for non-domestic purposes. Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims.
The manual emphasizes the importance of adhering to instructions for health, safety, and warranty validity. It also highlights that Vintec wine cellars are designed to provide consistent temperature and humidity, which are more critical for wine maturation than an exact temperature.