If you are shopping for a beverage center you will find that there is a wide range of price points. There are two types of beverage centers to choose from- freestanding or built-in. There are some differences between the two. Let’s take a look and decide which is right for you.
Freestanding VS. Built-In Beverage Centers
The free standing units are less expensive. These units are not designed to be built in between cabinets. The compressor is on the back so if they are built in there is nowhere for the heat to escape and they will not work for long. The built-in units have the compressor underneath so they can function properly in a cabinet. This compressor is typically going to be better built then the free standing ones. Another difference between the two is the cabinet of the free standing units are plastic and the cabinets of the built-ins are stainless steel. One last notable difference is the sizing. The built-ins are a standard 24" width. The freestanding are not always the standard size. So if you were to purchase one and design cabinets around it- you may have a hard time finding a replacement that would be the same size. At Don's Appliances we sell more built-in units so following is some information on our top three lines.
U-Line
U-Line is a good choice for a reliable beverage center at a reasonable price point. There are three collections to choose from starting with the 1000 series priced around $1370 and going to 3000 series priced at around $3250 - both for the 24" model which is the most popular size. However, they do offer a 15" and 18" model also. The 3000 series has a 36" beverage center which offers a wine cooler on the left and a beverage cooler on the right which has independently controlled dual zones. The left side goes from 38-65 degrees so you can chill your white wine or keep your red wine at a more consistent room temperature. The beverage center goes as low as 34 degrees to keep beverages cold but can go up to 70 degrees if needed. All of the U-Line beverage centers can be integrated but do have a better fit as you go from one collection to the next. The 1000 series is designed to be built in but can be freestanding with a kit. The 2000 and 3000 series are fully integrated but the 3000 is seamless. All of the models can be ordered so that a panel door can be inserted.
True Refrigeration
True has been recognized as the leading manufacturer in commercial refrigeration for over 70 years- they are in thousands of restaurant kitchens in hundreds of countries. They offer that same quality to residential refrigeration. A True beverage center offers an industry exclusive stainless steel interior and exterior. Other features are the True Flex and Rapid Chill. With True Flex you can convert the shelving from a fridge to a wine cabinet. The Rapid Chill enables you to rapidly cool down the unit and then maintain that temperature. You can set the temperature as low as 33 degrees so your drinks are icy cold. The most unique feature is the TriLuminia LED Lighting. You can choose the color of the interior to be white, amber or blue. The units can be used indoors or outdoors and come with one of the industry's best warranties. Warranty is 3 years full, 6 years parts and labor on the sealed system and 12 years parts only on the sealed system.
Sub-Zero
A Sub-Zero beverage center has the same quality as a Sub-Zero refrigerator. Before assembly-every component of every Sub-Zero unit is tested. After it is assembled the completed unit is then tested for up to 24 hours. The rigorous testing that these units must pass gives Sub-Zero the right to say there refrigeration can last up to 20 years. In addition to the quality the beverage centers come with a roll out bottom shelf that can hold up to 8 wine bottles. Along with that there are 3 spill proof shelves and a clear utility bin that is great for keeping garnishes like lemons or limes for your drinks. The unit can chill as low as 34 degrees and go up to 45 degrees. The glass doors have a triple pane and are UV resistant which helps to preserve fine wines. The warranty on these units is impressive as well. It comes with a full two year warranty but if it is installed by a Don's Appliance technician it becomes a full three year warranty. Then there is still 5 years parts and labor on the sealed system and 12 years parts only on the sealed system. One other point that sets Sub-Zero apart is their 24/7 customer service. This department has a reputation as good as the product! They will quickly solve any problem.
A last note is to keep in mind that a beverage center can be used in any room in the home or outside the home. You can put one in an office or master bedroom. They are great in a media room and of course under a bar inside or outside. Where would one work best for you?