Buying a refrigerator is one of the largest purchases to be considered in a kitchen or a kitchen remodeling project. Several factors need to be considered when making this decision as there are so many options out there today that vary in size, style and functionality. Utilizing the help of refrigerator reviews is a definite plus. The main concern is to evaluate how the refrigerators compare when it comes to function, space, and style.
FUNCTION
Types
There are 4 basic types of refrigerators that have different functionality. These types are: top-freezer refrigerators, bottom-freezer refrigerators, side-by-side refrigerators, and French door refrigerators. Details on each are listed here:
• Top Freezer Refrigerators. The freezer section is located at the top of the refrigerator.
• Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators. The refrigerator is located at the bottom portion in this version.
• Side-by-Side Refrigerators. In this type, refrigerators and freezers are side by side.
• French-Door Refrigerators. These have dual doors with a pullout freezer drawer on the bottom to conveniently access frozen food.
Looking through refrigerator reviews can be helpful to give you an idea of the advantages and disadvantages of each type, which will give you a better idea of a certain type will meet your needs more than the others.
Size (Capacity)
One of the top reasons for refrigerator returns is the refrigerator size which is also referred to as the capacity. So, it is very wise to put a lot of thought into the size you need to meet your kitchen lifestyle’s need. Sizes can go anywhere from 2 cubic feet all the way up to 30 cubic feet. For the average sized family, an average between 26 and 29 cubic feet should meet their needs.
If your household is one that tends to do a lot of entertaining, you will want to look for a larger storage capacity. A family that tends to eat outside the home often will obviously also have different needs and a smaller capacity will work. It’s a good idea to look at your current refrigerator’s capacity and take into consideration how well or insufficient that is working for your current needs. From there, you can decide whether you need to increase or decrease or if the current capacity is adequate.
Performance
Refrigerators are on 24/7 and as such, they account for up to 20%, on average, of the total household electrical consumption. And with such a high percentage and amount of energy used by it in your home, purchasing an energy efficient fridge makes sense. It will help you save money by reducing consumption, as well as more efficiently keep your items refrigerated and cooled.
Refrigerator reviews can give you an idea of which energy efficient ones on the market are effective, as well as give you a comparison between various models and versions. If you see the EPA’s ‘Energy Star’ qualification, you can have confidence knowing those refrigerators have been tested and confirmed to be 15% less energy than current federal standards. They also use 40% less energy than models that were sold in 2001. If you want to go this route, be sure that the refrigerator has received the official ‘Energy Star’ qualification.
Features
Today’s refrigerators are rich in the features they offer. There is a huge list of choices that you can select that may be just what your family needs. Refrigerator reviews will be able to give you an idea of how effective and useful the features are, as well as what brands offer certain ones. Some of those additional features that are offered include the following:
• Adjustable Door Bins
• Automatic Ice Maker
• Can Rack
• Child Lock
• Crushed Ice
• Custom Panels
• Dairy Storage
• Door Alarm
• Door sensor systems
• Energy Guide Label
• Filter Status Light
• Gallon-Size Door Compartments
• Humidity Control
• Insulation
• Lock-Out Feature
• See-Through Meat and Crispier Bins
• Shelves
• Slide Out Shelves
• Split-Glass Adjustable Shelves
• Quick-Adjust Shelves
• Quick-Freeze Shelf
• Water Dispenser
• Wine Rack
SPACE
You should also check the physical outer dimensions of new refrigerators that you are considering purchasing to make sure you select a new refrigerator that will fit the current space. The measurements to take are the width, height, and depth of the space. You will also need to check widths of doorways, entrances, and halls to be sure your new refrigerator will fit through these as you pass on the way to installing your new fridge.
Also be sure to check the space around the refrigerator that your new refrigerator will not be constricted or conflict with the floor plan. You should be sure that the doors will open freely without having any issues. You will also need a few inches clearance if you have a refrigerator that has an ice maker or water dispenser feature.
STYLE
Different styles for the look of the refrigerator are also available. Families typically want to match their refrigerators with their existing appliances or if they are upgrading all items, then they want a style that matches the newly planned appliances.
A popular look today is the stainless steel look. There are also options to have the same look but on a smaller budget, this is a finish that gives the stainless steel look on the exterior. Stainless steel has become a popular option because of its easy ability to clean, show little wear and minimal need for maintenance.
Another option that can change the style of a refrigerator is to use trim kit. Manufacturers can provide these trim kits add it allows you to add custom panels. You can also check with cabinetmakers to find trims that are a match to the front of the refrigerator to the kitchen cabinetry.
Refrigerator purchases are important purchases that need much planning and consideration. Reading through refrigerator reviews is helpful as it will compare different options that you could pursue. Using this, as well as deciding on what’s best for your kitchen and family’s lifestyle in terms of function, space, and style will help you make an informed decision to choose the best fit for your needs.