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SALVATOR5215 May 2015 16:37Hello everyone, I am considering using an IKEA Besta cabinet as a built-in beverage cooler. My question is quite specific: How can I modify the Besta carcass to allow for integrated cooling without compromising stability and the original design too much? What should I keep in mind when choosing and positioning the cooling system, especially regarding air circulation, insulation, and connection options? I am also interested in experiences related to installation and possible adjustments to the shelves to store bottles and cans efficiently. If anyone has completed similar projects, I would greatly appreciate tips on material selection, necessary tools, and potential costs. Thank you in advance!
Hello SALVATOR52, I find your plan interesting and would like to share some basic advice and tips with you.
First of all, it is important to choose a suitable cooling system that can be integrated into the Besta cabinet. A compressor cooling unit is usually better than thermoelectric coolers, as it is more powerful and durable. Remember not to neglect air circulation: the cabinet itself is not designed for cooling, so you should either provide ventilation slots at the back or integrate an air ventilation channel.
For insulation, it is recommended to apply thin but effective foam or polystyrene insulation boards inside to keep the cooled air as stable as possible. Make sure the shelves are as stable as possible, for example, using sturdy glass or metal shelves so that bottles can stand securely.
When assembling, you should use special kitchen screws instead of standard furniture connectors to better support the loads and weight. Tools like a jigsaw, cordless screwdriver, and possibly a rotary tool are useful for creating cutouts for cables and ventilation.
Some users also report using specialized cooling systems for wine racks, which can be easily adapted. Costs vary, but expect at least 200–300 euros (about 220–330 US dollars) for the cooling unit plus insulation and tools.
If you like, I can gladly send you examples from my experience or additional details.
First of all, it is important to choose a suitable cooling system that can be integrated into the Besta cabinet. A compressor cooling unit is usually better than thermoelectric coolers, as it is more powerful and durable. Remember not to neglect air circulation: the cabinet itself is not designed for cooling, so you should either provide ventilation slots at the back or integrate an air ventilation channel.
For insulation, it is recommended to apply thin but effective foam or polystyrene insulation boards inside to keep the cooled air as stable as possible. Make sure the shelves are as stable as possible, for example, using sturdy glass or metal shelves so that bottles can stand securely.
When assembling, you should use special kitchen screws instead of standard furniture connectors to better support the loads and weight. Tools like a jigsaw, cordless screwdriver, and possibly a rotary tool are useful for creating cutouts for cables and ventilation.
Some users also report using specialized cooling systems for wine racks, which can be easily adapted. Costs vary, but expect at least 200–300 euros (about 220–330 US dollars) for the cooling unit plus insulation and tools.
If you like, I can gladly send you examples from my experience or additional details.
Regarding your question: choose a cooling unit that is small enough. Install insulation on the inside. Provide ventilation slots at the back, both at the bottom and top. Replace the shelves with glass ones, securely fastened. Make provisions for an electrical connection. This is usually how it is done.
manla schrieb:
Remember not to overlook air circulation: the cabinet itself is not designed for cooling, so you should either include ventilation slots at the back or integrate an air duct. I find this point very important. Without sufficient ventilation, your cooling system will quickly become overloaded. However, I wonder whether this might compromise the typical charm of the Besta.
Also, are you aware of how moisture behaves inside the cabinet? The combination of cooling and wood can lead to condensation depending on the insulation, which could damage the furniture or promote mold growth.
Are the modifications perhaps so extensive that it might be more practical in the end to choose furniture with a built-in refrigerator?
I don’t mean to discourage your idea, but I encourage you to clearly define the technical limits. Have you examined the electrical connection options in detail? Such a conversion can otherwise result in unexpected costs.
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SALVATOR5216 May 2015 10:42Tause schrieb:
Could the modifications be so extensive that it might ultimately be more practical to choose a piece of furniture with a built-in refrigerator? Thank you for your thoughtful insight; that’s exactly the point that makes me uncertain. The idea is to reduce costs while visually and spatially integrating the Besta cabinet nicely. On the other hand, I have no experience with potential moisture problems.
manla schrieb:
For insulation, it is recommended to install thin but effective foam or polystyrene insulation panels inside to keep the cooled air as stable as possible. That sounds good, I think that’s where I will start. Are there recommendations on which insulation materials are particularly effective, yet discreet and durable?
Regarding air circulation, I find the suggestion of ventilation slots interesting, but I want to keep the cabinet so that the airflow is not visible. How realistic is that with ducts inside the furniture carcass?
One last question: Is it advisable to choose a small compressor cooling system with an automatic defrost function, or can you do without it if the insulation is good?
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