Maybe not the answer for everyone, but I proved it was the fan by removing the back panel, removing the fan and finger guard, then placing a small desktop fan that was the same size as the top-rear fan on the wine fridge. Pumping air directly over the heat sink allowed the unit to attain the temperature set on the front panel. The old fan would either not turn at all, or too slowly to be effective. These fans are junk. Especially after finding articles such as this out in different forums for the same issue.
I have the HVTS18DABB model unit and the replacement fan is a simple 120mm square, 25mm deep 12V DC fan. Similar or the same as you see in computer chassis. Found some inexpensive, high CFM, low noise fans from the following site:
http://www.sidewindercomputers.com
Specific fan for my application was the model SY1225SL12SH. Although I did order a second fan that is similar in case the .5amps was too high and I popped a fuse. These fans are inexpensive folks, as long as you aren't afraid to get your hands dirty. Good luck.
http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/sc12slsy110c.html
Here are the details on my order:
Name Code Qty Each Options
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Yate Loon 120x25mm D12SH-12 1 5.99
D12SH-12 High Speed -
Black (88 CFM, 40 dBA)
Scythe 120x25mm SY1225SL12SH 1 7.95 Add Black Sleeving = No
SlipStream SY1225SL12SH -
110 CFM
Subtotal 13.94
Shipping 7.02
Tax 0.00
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