A refrigerator is an essential part of all kitchens, and with advancements in technology, they now come with a multitude of features. From affordable, energy-efficient models to high-end smart refrigerators, the options available could make choosing one a confusing decision. Here’s a list of things to consider to help you confidently pick the one that’s best for your household.
Choose the Type of Refrigerator
The first factor to consider when planning for a new refrigerator is the type of unit you require. While a free-standing unit makes for a budget-friendly option allowing you to position it anywhere in your home, choose a built-in refrigerator if you’re looking for beautiful integration with kitchen units.
Select a Style
Depending on personal preferences and the amount of space you have available, you could choose from different styles of refrigerators, including:
Traditional top-freezer – Models with freezer units above the fridge area.
Bottom-freezer models – Units with the freezer below the fridge.
French door models – Bottom-freezer models with double door features.
Side-by-side models – Fridge and freezer compartments next to each other.
Settle on Capacity
Consider the capacity of the fridge based on your family’s cooking and eating habits. A good rule of thumb is that generally, a ten cubic foot capacity fridge unit is sufficient for a two-person household.
Understand Price Vs. Technology
The type of refrigeration technology used can have a significant impact on how much you’ll end up paying. While budget refrigerators rely on single cooling systems, high-end units generally have dual cooling technology that uses separate condensers and evaporators for the fridge and freezer compartments.
Consider Size
As there is no standard size for refrigerators, measuring the area you have available in your kitchen can help you find one that fits in perfectly. Keep in mind that you will need to allow space for the doors to open and a couple of inches around the unit for sufficient airflow.
Compare Energy Efficiency
While energy-efficient refrigerators can be costly to purchase, they are great for the environment and pay for themselves over time through reductions in annual power bills.
Knowing what to look for can help you make an educated decision while picking a refrigerator unit that’s best for your home.
