EmailTypes of Refrigerators
The first decision you need to make when buying a new refrigerator is between a side-by-side model, a top-freezer or bottom-freezer unit (one with a freezer on top or along the bottom), or a French-door model (side-by-side refrigerator on top, single-door freezer on bottom).
Top-freezer refrigerators: These are the least expensive options and also the least repair-prone type of refrigerator. Bottom-freezer models are more convenient because they place the more frequently used refrigerator compartment at eye level. The downside is that it can be harder to find items in a bottom freezer, where you may have to dig to get what you need. Bottom-freezer refrigerators also tend to cost about 1.5 times as much as comparable top-freezer models.
Side-by-side refrigerators: These fridges cost about as much as bottom-freezer models and usually include features like through-the-door ice and water dispensers. If you have a narrow or galley kitchen, side-by-side refrigerators need less door clearance. However, reviews say side-by-side refrigerators also have some disadvantages. Aside from higher cost -- sometimes twice that of comparable top-freezer models -- their narrow shelves don't generally accommodate common items like pizza boxes or wide pans and their repair-prone through-the-door dispensers can be problematic. Most side-by-side refrigerators are less energy efficient than top or bottom freezers, even though many are Energy Star-qualified.
French-door refrigerators: This type of fridge pairs a side-by-side refrigerator on top with a bottom full-width freezer. These models often have a through-the-door ice and water dispenser. French-door refrigerators let you open just one side of the refrigerator, so less cool air escapes. At the same time, you'll still be able to fit in wider items like sheet cakes and pizza boxes. Owners posting to review sites also love ice and water dispensers, since you don't need to open the door for ice cubes. Most French-door refrigerators range in size from 20 to 26 cubic feet and come with lots of convenience features like adjustable shelves and water filters for the ice maker. They tend to cost a little more than side-by-side refrigerators. Many models are Energy Star-qualified.
Refrigerator performance and efficiency
There are some great reasons to look for an Energy Star-qualified appliance, say consumer advocates at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Modern refrigerators use two-thirds less energy than models made 25 years ago. However, there's an even more lucrative reason to look for Energy Star models: Many municipalities and utility companies offer rebates of up to $200 if you replace an old refrigerator with an Energy Star-compliant model. A list of current and recent rebate offers can be found at the Energy Star website, EnergyStar.gov. Your new Energy Star fridge may also qualify for a rebate under a new federal program set to begin this fall into next year. Each state will have different appliance-eligibility requirements, and rebate amounts will vary from state to state as well.
When it comes to refrigerators, performance is almost a non-issue. Basic cooling technology hasn't changed in decades, and any refrigerator will keep food cool if it's functioning properly. Cold spots, which can lead to ice crystals in food stored near the back of the refrigerator, are rarely seen these days except in very inexpensive builder's grade refrigerators. Still, bottom freezer, side-by-side and French-door refrigerators generally regulate temperature a little better than top-freezer refrigerators.
The only major differences among refrigerators are in reliability, door style, noise level, energy efficiency and extra features that make organization and cleaning easier. In general, an 18-cubic-foot refrigerator has enough room for a couple, while a family of four may want a 22-cubic-foot or larger model. Of course, the size of refrigerator you need depends a lot on your habits -- if you like to stock up on food and freeze it for long-term storage, consider buying a model with a relatively large freezer. Similarly, if you buy a lot of fresh produce or want to keep a variety of soft drinks cool, a larger refrigerator makes sense.
Here's what experts say to consider when buying a refrigerator:
- Get the largest unit that will comfortably fit your space. Shop with a tape measure and consider height, width, depth and door-swing clearance. Keep in mind, though, that larger refrigerators typically use more energy and cost more.
- Look for a convenient interior layout. A refrigerator should have the ability to store wide and/or tall items and should have no hard-to-reach or hidden spots.
- Shelves should be sturdy, flexible and easy to clean. Glass is generally better. Some glass shelves have a raised, sealed rim to stop spills from dripping over. Adjustable shelves are a plus: Some models have half-shelves that can be matched up for a wide, flat surface or adjusted separately for odd-height items. Other models have elevator shelves that crank up or down. A few models include a wine rack.
- Look for easy-to-reach temperature and humidity controls. Controls should be up front rather than on the back inside wall, where you may have to empty a shelf to adjust them. Nice extras include humidity-controlled vegetable crispers and temperature-controlled meat and deli drawers.
- The interior should be well lit. Most models have a light inside the refrigerator compartment; some have additional lights in the freezer or produce bins.
- The refrigerator should be relatively quiet. Look for insulation to help dampen the sound of the compressor.
- Electronic touch pads are easier to use. Many models now have digital controls and displays that show the actual temperature of the various areas and compartments of the refrigerator. However, electronic controls and thermometers are more likely to fail. It's a good idea to double-check your refrigerator and freezer's temperature periodically with a conventional thermometer.