Side-by-side refrigerators

Iffy reliability for side-by-side fridges

Side-by-side refrigerators are the least reliable type of refrigerator. This is partly because nearly all models have a through-the-door ice and water dispenser, which experts say is the single most problematic part of refrigerators (over time, water and ice dispensers tend to develop leaks). Still, consumers with narrower kitchens often like side-by-side refrigerators since door-swing clearance can be an issue. This configuration also lets users place more commonly used refrigerator and freezer items at eye level and offers more freezer space. Side-by-side refrigerators are also less expensive than French-door types, though they usually cost more than standard top-freezer refrigerators; most cost between $800 and $1,500.

Among side-by-side refrigerators, we read the best recommendations overall for the inexpensive 25.1-cubic-foot Kenmore Cold Spot 59422 (*Est. $700). It's a strong performer in tests, and it receives close to 100 user reviews at Sears.com, most of which are positive. Although there are some reliability complaints for this side-by-side refrigerator, particularly regarding the ice maker, there are fewer overall than for most side-by-side fridges. A few users express annoyance that the dispensers won't admit a water bottle. The Kenmore refrigerator has a through-the-door filtered water and ice dispenser, antimicrobial crispers, several spill-proof glass shelves and various bins. Both the refrigerator and freezer are lighted, as is the water and ice dispenser. The refrigerator is Energy-Star rated and has a one-year limited warranty. The Kenmore Cold Spot 59422 side-by-side refrigerator is white; its black counterpart is the Kenmore Cold Spot 59422. It is not available in stainless steel.

The GE GSH25JFXWW (*Est. $1,000) may also be worth considering. Along with the filtered through-the-door water and ice dispenser, this refrigerator has a nice array of storage options, spill-proof glass shelves and is Energy Star-rated. According to user reviews, it is also quieter than most. Most owners commenting on this model are complimentary, but we did read some complaints that the ice and water dispensers are hard to use without spilling ice or water onto the floor. It's available in white, bisque (GSH25JFXCC), black (GSH25JFXBB) and, for about $200 more, stainless steel (GSH25JSXSS). Note that the stainless-steel version has a black case; only the front of the refrigerator is stainless steel. The fridge has a one-year limited warranty.

Another side-by-side refrigerator -- the 25.8-cubic-foot Maytag MSD2559XEW (*Est. $1,100) -- is quieter than most, according to one professional test. A handful of user reviews at HomeDepot.com gives this refrigerator good marks. Like most side-by-side refrigerators, it has filtered through-the-door water and ice dispensers, spill-proof glass shelves, gallon door storage and bins in both the refrigerator and freezer. Less common extras include external digital temperature controls and an adjustable-temperature deli drawer. The Maytag MSD2559XEW side-by-side fridge is white. It's also available in black (MSD2559XEB) and, for $150 more, monochromatic stainless steel (MSD2559XEM). It is Energy Star-rated and has a one-year limited warranty.