Optimizing Winery and Brewery Operations: The Role of Custom Refrigeration Solutions

In the world of wineries and breweries, quality and consistency are everything. Whether you’re producing award-winning wine or a signature craft beer, one of the most critical—and often overlooked—factors behind the scenes is your refrigeration system. At Custom Climates Refrigeration, we specialize in custom refrigeration solutions that meet the unique needs of wineries and breweries across the Okanagan Valley and beyond.

Why Refrigeration Matters for Wineries and Breweries

Fermentation and storage are sensitive processes. Without precise temperature control, you risk compromising the entire batch. For wineries, this might mean volatile acidity issues or halted fermentation. For breweries, improper cooling can lead to off-flavours or carbonation inconsistencies.

Modern operations rely on industrial cooling systems and controlled atmosphere applications to ensure the right temperature, humidity, and airflow—especially when scaling up production or storing large quantities in cold rooms or glycol-chilled tanks.

The Advantages of Custom Refrigeration Solutions

Generic systems often fall short when it comes to handling the temperature demands and workflow complexity of a busy production floor. That’s why we work with each client to develop custom refrigeration solutions tailored to their space, budget, and production timeline.

Here’s what makes our approach stand out:

• Scalable Designs: We account for your current volume and future expansion. Whether you’re starting with a dozen barrels or managing thousands of litres, we’ll grow with you.

• Energy Efficiency: Refrigeration is one of the largest energy consumers in a winery or brewery. Our systems use commercial cooling equipment designed for optimal performance and minimal waste.

• Flexible System Options: From glycol chillers for fermentation tanks to cold storage solutions for bottled products, we help you match the right system to each stage of your process.

Glycol Chillers: The Secret Weapon of Temperature Control

If you’re not already using a glycol chiller, you might be missing a powerful tool for consistent results. Glycol chillers circulate a mixture of water and food-grade antifreeze around your tanks, allowing pinpoint temperature adjustments during fermentation, crash cooling, or storage.

Benefits include:

• Reduced fermentation time without sacrificing quality

• Less risk of contamination due to consistent temps

• The ability to ferment different styles simultaneously

We supply, install and maintain glycol chillers that are reliable, easy to service, and ideal for commercial breweries and wineries.

Cold Storage Installation That Works for You

When it comes to bottling and storing finished products, temperature stability is crucial. At Custom Climates, we offer expert cold storage installation services tailored to your layout and volume needs. Whether it’s a walk-in cold room or a series of chest freezers, we make sure your equipment meets both health and efficiency standards.

Our installations include:

• Custom sizing and insulation specs

• Automated defrosting and humidity control

• Backup power and remote monitoring options

This level of customization ensures your product stays fresh and your operation remains compliant—without overextending your energy use.

Service That Doesn’t Stop at Installation

Our clients appreciate that we don’t just install systems and walk away. We offer chiller maintenance, refrigeration repair, and emergency refrigeration service 24/7/365. This is especially vital for breweries and wineries that rely on seasonal production cycles—where downtime can mean lost revenue or wasted product.

We install and maintain:

• Commercial cooling solutions and chillers

• Refrigeration equipment repair across brands and models

• Preventative maintenance plans to extend system life

We know what it means to support local production—our goal is to keep your systems running smoothly so you can focus on what you do best.

Working With the Best in the Industry

Custom Climates Refrigeration proudly employs Red Seal Journeymen technicians who specialize in commercial HVAC and refrigeration systems. Our work has supported some of the Okanagan’s most recognized wineries and breweries, and we’re always ready to take on new challenges as the industry evolves.

We’re more than technicians—we’re your partners in production.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about crafting great products and scaling your business, don’t let your refrigeration system be the weak link. The right design, installation, and maintenance plan will not only save you money in the long run but protect the reputation of every bottle you produce.

Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or starting fresh, Custom Climates Refrigeration is ready to help you design the optimal setup for your operation.