Many London properties have underground living space, which is ideal for a wine cellar; lovers of fine wines can store their favourites in optimal conditions and enjoy premium wine that is stored as it should be. If you have a wine cellar, you probably know that maintenance is crucial and with that in mind, here is our wine cellar maintenance guide.
Air filter maintenance
Most wine cellars use a charcoal air filter, which helps to keep the air clean and dry; excess humidity is your enemy and you should invest in a hygrometer that measures the moisture content in the air. Too much moisture is not good and you should also invest in a portable dehumidifier that extracts moisture from the air in the cellar. The filter should be changed on an annual basis, or sooner if the filter has to work hard.
Monitoring humidity
Ideally, you do not want humidity to go below 50%, as this will dry out the corks; the optimum level is between 70 and 80%; make good use of a hygrometer and check often to ensure the humidity stays within the acceptable levels.
Dangers of mould
Mould is a very real threat in any basement or cellar; we recommend removing all wine racks every few months and cleaning the floor, while wiping down all the racks before replacing them. If you do notice signs of mould, you can contact London Damp Surveys and arrange for one of our qualified surveyors to inspect your wine cellar. The inspector can pinpoint the underlying cause of mould and mildew and recommend the correct remedial work. Of course, ventilation plays an important role in maintaining an optimum wine storing environment; correct use of extractor fans is the usual way to generate the right airflow. While mould won’t spoil your wine, it could affect labels, besides, mould is regarded as a health hazard, so do keep your eyes open looking for signs of mould and mildew.
Cleaning & emptying drip trays
Most cellars have drip trays and they need to be kept clean at all times, this is one place where mould can flourish; also clean all tubes and remove dust and dirt. Keeping everything spotlessly clean is the secret to good wine cellar management, measure the temperature accurately and employ a good thermometer.
Preventing damp & mould
These are your enemies and if you even suspect you have damp issues, call London Damp Surveys on 0207 305 5997 or fill in the form on this website and one of our certified surveyors will arrange to inspect your cellar and issue you a detailed report. There are numerous ways to waterproof a basement and our surveyors are happy to advise you accordingly; while we don’t offer damp-proofing service, we have a working relationship with the best contractors in London and they offer a 30-year guarantee on all their work.
Don’t delay, book a damp survey today!
