I have a rather old Le Cache cabinet (about 200 bottle capacity, from the 1990s). Of course, the cabinet is just an insulated box. I’ve replaced the original cooling unit with another from Le Cache.
When that crapped out, I bought a refurbished WineMate from a local semi-retired heating and air guy.
That lasted for a few years, but now that’s giving out.
Replacement Le Cache unit is close to $2,000.
Costco has a couple semi-comparable complete cellars at close to that price:
https://www.costco.com/vinotemp-300-bottle-dual-zone-wine-cooler.product.4000315390.html
https://www.costco.com/wine-enthusiast-sommseries2-150-bottle-dual-zone-smart-wi-fi-wine-cellar.product.4000210112.html
EuroCave is a bit more (https://www.wineenthusiast.com/w/eurocave-la-premiere-l-wine-cellar?queryID=8bd7810790f6224fa749bba6095eed9e&objectID=37902&indexName=production_wine_enthusiast_store_view_products)
Comparable replacement cellar from Le Cache is around $5,000.
Bottom line, what are your recommendations? I could try to get a refurbished model on the cheap, or get an HVAC guy to repair the existing one. Could buy a replacement from Costco or Wine Enthusiast, though I’m not familiar with the reliability of those brands. Could get a replacement cooler from Le Cache, a company that I know is reliable.
Appreciate any recommendations and advice.
All cooling units are ticking time bombs. I’ve found that the less you pay (used, repair, etc) the better you are in the long run. This is one market where buying new or high end doesn’t pay off as they aren’t guaranteed to last longer and the warranties are all woefully short and nobody stands behind their product.
Eurocave is the most reliable by far. This is especially important since trying to repair a cooling unit is never worth it.
Costco’s Artevino label is worth considering. They’re Eurocaves rebranded for Costco, like how name brands make products for Costco’s Kirkland label.
I’d wait for a Costco sale if you can. Costco warranty and CS are unrivaled. Buy with the Costco credit card and you get an added year of “warranty,” which is just repair service reimbursement up to the cost of the unit.
I’m convinced that regardless of the brand name, they all use fairly generic refrigeration components. It’s just luck of the draw what longevity you’ll get.