Expert: James Yee - 2/27/2011

Question
QUESTION: Hi James I hope you keep well,
I ve got 3 Monarcas Humidors (approximatelly 80 boxes capacity) I need to buy 1 more but i was thinking to invest in a wine cooler instead.
I've got a few questions regarding wine coolers.
1)If the wine cooler needs to be thermoelectric and why?
2)do i have to put on the sides and selves Spanish Cedar?
3)Am going to need fans for air circulation?and lastly do you know any  model more appropriate?
Thanking you in advance for your answer
Kind Regards George

ANSWER: Hi George,

To answer your questions:

1) Yes, the wine cooler should be thermoelectric and should have a programmable temperature control.  Should the temperature in your home or wine cooler be too hot, you can adjust the temperature in the wine cooler and make it cooler.

2) It would be best to add Spanish cedar panels to your wine fridge.  The cedar will absorb and regulate humidity plus the aroma of the Spanish cedar will compliment your cigars nicely.  The natural oils and aroma of the cedar will also deter bugs that may be attracted to the moisture in your wine cooler.

3) Most electronic humidifiers will already use a fan for air/humidity circulation so it's not necessary to add more fans to your wine fridge.  Cigar Oasis (www.cigaroasis.com) makes excellent electronic humidifiers that would be perfect for a wine cooler.

I hope this helps! As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your prompt answer James,you are mentioning cedar panels do you have any idea how i am going to fit them i.e can I cut them to size and glue them?

Answer
Hi George,

Yes, you should use kiln-dried Spanish cedar panels.  If you use air-dried cedar, it may warp and bow over time.  If you cut the pieces to size, they should be able to fit snug without the need to fasten them.   They can be glued if you prefer, just be sure to use a carpenter glue that is resistant to moisture and bacteria.

What you can also do is create a 5-sided Spanish cedar box that can easily slide into the wine fridge.  Each panel can interlock with grooves (ie: dove tail) or you can fasten them with brass nails.  This way, the cedar does not need to be secured to the fridge itself plus you can remove the cedar box lining any time for cleaning or maintenance.

I hope this helps!  As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James