Cellar problems

[hotwine]

Folks, I have an unusual problem. My cellar is an old storm cellar, half in the ground and half out, 10 ft long by 7 ft wide by 6 ft deep, of 4 inch reinforced concrete all around, with a steel door set in one end at about a 45 degree angle. Four steps lead into the cellar. I have built diamond-shaped bins of plywood in 3 ft by 5 ft units along one wall, sufficent to accommodate about 500 bottles. The problem is the climate in there: it's much too warm and humid. This summer, the temperature has been as high as 80 degrees, and the humidity as high as 90 percent. I've tried using a small a/c unit inside, but its exhaust merely raises the temperature further. The only vents in the cellar are two 3.5 inch pipes set in the ceiling, that protrude above the roof about 18 inches. I have to keep those capped in order to discourage the roaches and lizards that would otherwise overrun the place.<br>With the summer about over for this year, the problem is now abating somewhat, but I would sure like to fix the problem over the coming winter. I'm trying to avoid cutting a hole in the wall for a window-syle a/c unit, but realise that may be necessary.<br>Any suggestions you folks might offer would be most welcome.<br>Thanks!<br>Gil<br>Helotes, Texas

[Jason]

I have seen portable AC units that can be simply rolled from room to room. I assume they must have some internal exhaust. Used with a dehumidifier, this should help out.