How To Lower The Humidity In My Winery: Effective Solutions For Better Wine Storage
By: Brothers Equipment & Supply
Maintaining optimal humidity in a winery isn’t just about comfort—it’s a critical factor in protecting your wine, your building, and your brand.
High humidity can damage labels, compromise corks, and promote mould. Ideally, wineries should maintain a humidity level between 50% and 70%.
Anything higher puts your wine at risk.
Let’s get right into it!
Humidity in a winery typically comes from a combination of natural and environmental sources: fermentation, cleaning processes, lack of airflow, and underground cellar conditions. Seasonal changes can amplify the problem, especially in older buildings without adequate ventilation or insulation.
There are clear red flags that humidity is too high in your winery. You may notice condensation on barrels, tanks, or windows. A musty smell or visible mould growth is another key indicator. Labels may begin to peel or smudge, and wood fixtures or corks may start to deteriorate. Even slight warping of wood or paint bubbling can point to excess moisture in the air.
Excess moisture isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It can damage corks, allowing air to seep into bottles and ruin wine through oxidation. Wet labels reduce shelf appeal and resale value. Structural damage over time from moisture build-up can result in expensive repairs, especially if mould takes hold. In commercial wineries, excessive humidity can also affect hygiene compliance and product safety standards.
Digital hygrometers are essential tools in a winery. They provide real-time humidity readings, allowing you to track trends and catch spikes before they cause damage. For larger facilities, investing in smart winery monitoring systems with alert features and data logging can help automate climate management.
Good airflow can significantly reduce humidity levels. Installing exhaust fans or inline duct fans helps remove moisture-laden air, especially in enclosed areas like fermentation rooms. If possible, integrate a mechanical air exchanger to bring in drier outside air without disrupting temperature control.
A well-sized commercial-grade dehumidifier can pull litres of water from the air daily. Desiccant models are especially effective in colder environments, while refrigerant types work well in warmer zones. Choose a unit that matches the square footage of your winery or cellar, and make sure to clean and maintain it regularly for peak efficiency.
Moisture often enters through foundation cracks or porous concrete walls. Seal these with high-grade epoxy or concrete sealants. For added protection, consider installing vapour barriers on floors and walls to prevent groundwater or airborne moisture from seeping into your space.
Temperature and humidity go hand in hand. Warmer air holds more moisture, so cooling the space can reduce relative humidity. Use a cellar cooling system with humidity controls or a split HVAC unit designed for wine storage. Consistency is key to avoiding condensation and moisture spikes.
Insulation helps prevent outside temperature swings from affecting your winery’s internal environment. Closed-cell spray foam, rigid foam boards, and vapour-sealed fibreglass insulation are all great options. Proper insulation around ceilings, floors, and walls reduces both heat gain and moisture intrusion.
Even a slow leak can elevate humidity over time. Inspect your winery for plumbing issues, faulty drainage, or pooling water. Sump pumps and trench drains should be clear and operational. Install raised platforms or water barriers around tanks and barrels to reduce contact with wet surfaces.
Barrel rooms often require slightly higher humidity (around 65%) to prevent barrel shrinkage, but levels above 70% can still promote mould. In tasting areas, humidity solutions need to be discreet. Use decorative vents, ductless systems, or under-bar dehumidifiers to maintain air quality without ruining the ambience.
Humidity tends to spike during spring and summer. Seasonal checks of dehumidifiers, HVAC filters, and insulation are key to maintaining balance. Adjust ventilation and temperature controls based on the season to avoid surprise humidity build-up.
If energy use is a concern, solar-powered fans or natural ventilation designs can reduce reliance on electricity. Passive methods like calcium chloride moisture absorbers are affordable and effective for small spaces. Newer smart systems can adjust automatically, reducing unnecessary runtime and energy waste.
If humidity regularly exceeds 75%, or if you notice persistent mould, it’s time to consult an expert. Professional HVAC installers or cellar designers can recommend custom solutions, retrofit old buildings, or install zoned climate control systems tailored to your winery’s size and layout.
Controlling humidity in your winery is vital for wine preservation, structural longevity, and customer experience. With the right tools, maintenance routine, and ventilation strategy, you can protect your product and enhance your reputation. Don’t let excess moisture spoil your investment—take action today.
What’s the ideal humidity range for wine storage?
The recommended range is 50% to 70%. Going above this can lead to mould and cork issues.
Can high humidity ruin wine?
Yes. It can compromise corks, leading to oxidation, and damage labels, affecting presentation.
Do I need a dehumidifier in my wine cellar year-round?
In most cases, yes—especially if your cellar is underground or lacks ventilation.
How do I know if my winery needs better ventilation?
Signs include condensation, mould, or a musty smell. Poor air movement is a key contributor to high humidity.
Is mould common in wine cellars with high humidity?
Absolutely. Mould thrives in damp environments, especially in dark, enclosed spaces.
Will insulating my cellar help reduce humidity?
Yes, it stabilises temperature and blocks moisture intrusion from outside.
Are there smart humidity control systems for commercial wineries?
Yes, many systems offer remote monitoring, data logging, and automated adjustments.
Can I use household dehumidifiers in a professional winery?
Not recommended. They often lack the capacity for large-scale or continuous use.
What’s the best flooring material for reducing winery moisture?
Sealed concrete or epoxy-coated floors are moisture-resistant and easy to clean.
How often should I check humidity levels in my wine room?
Daily checks are ideal, but at minimum, use automated sensors for real-time monitoring.
If you have any questions about our article “How To Lower The Humidity In My Winery: Effective Solutions For Better Wine Storage” or need dehumidifiers for your winery contact us at sales@brothers-equipment.com or connect with us on social media.
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