If you are looking for a refrigerator, there are a number of choices. A bare-bones refrigerator with a freezer, cooling department, and crisper bins is one of the choices available. Another choice might be one with the new French doors, a freezer located on the bottom, and an automatic icemaker with water dispenser. Consideration must be paid to energy consumption, too, since refrigerators consumer about a fourth of the energy used in a household.
Getting Started on Choosing a Refrigerator
Begin with estimating the size of refrigerator your family needs. A family with many children will need a larger refrigerator than one with just a husband and wife. Plan to purchase one that fits your needs. Measure the area in which the refrigerator needs to fit so you can purchase an adequately sized refrigerator. Research the models of refrigerators available, the advantages of each refrigerator, and the energy ratings stated for a particular refrigerator model in addition to the cost of the appliance.
Getting Started on Choosing a Refrigerator
Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators
These refrigerators have the freezer in the bottom of the refrigerator rather than the top as used to be common. These refrigerators have the advantage of making the cabinet of the refrigerator at eye level – on the other hand, it is necessary to stoop to get frozen food.
Built-In Refrigerators
The advantage of a built-in refrigerator is that they are designed to fit smoothly in the cabinet section of your kitchen, reducing the possibility for spilling. Pullout shelves are usually afforded in these refrigerators, as are doors that can hold a full gallon of milk. Measure carefully for these because cabinets often have limited space.
Top Freezer Refrigerators
These refrigerators are the most common models and have the most storage space. Usually, these are the least expensive of all the models available.
Compact Refrigerators
Ordinarily smaller refrigerators are more cost-effective with regard to energy, but compact refrigerators do not have freeze well, so they are more suitable for keeping drinks cool and maintaining the temperature of milk.
Refrigerator Brands
There are a number of popular brands of refrigerators, all of which have advantages. These brands are:
- Electrolux – new to the US and intended to be a mass-market luxury brand
- G.E. – Standard brand, but leaning toward special features such as LCD interactive screens
- Kenmore – Standard brand – adding LCD lights for their controls
- LG – Introducing a four-door French door model with LCD controls
- Samsung – Planning a 29 cu ft. model with French doors
- Sub-Zero – Major built-in brand that's working on innovative configurations
- Thermador – Designed for both beauty and functionality, but sold through independent dealers
- Viking – Their aim is professional performance for home use.
- Whirlpool – including the following brands made by Whirlpool
- Amana – Whirlpool's lower-cost brand
- Jenn-Air – Whirlpool's offering for the gourmet cook
- Kitchen Aid – High end offering by Whirlpool – extra features offered.
- Maytag – Whirlpool's innovation for the French door, bottom freezer
Energy-Saving Tips
Refrigerators use a substantial amount of energy in your home, so you should compare both the initial cost and the cost to run the appliance. There are two ways of determining the energy efficiency of any appliance:
- Look for the Energy Star logo, which indicates that the appliance meets or exceeds the federal minimum standards for efficiency and quality.
- Observe and read the federal EnergyGuide label. This label gives the following information:
- Make, model number, and size of the appliance
- Estimated yearly operating cost (based upon the national average cost of electricity) and the range of operating costs for similar models
- The EnergyStar logo should be on the label
- Estimated yearly electricity consumption
- Features of the appliance and similar models that make up the cost comparison range
Life Expectancy of the Average Refrigerator
Refrigerators usually last at the least ten years and up to eighteen years with adequate maintenance.
Maintenance Tips for a Refrigerator
- Do not place the refrigerator in direct sunlight or near a heat-producing appliance
- Place the refrigerator at least an inch out from walls and other obstacles to improve airflow.
- Use a soft brush to clean condenser coils if they are visible. Dust and pet hair can block airflow.
- Wash door seals with soapy water to keep them clean and flexible.
Four Common Repair Problems for Refrigerators
Usually it is more cost-effective to purchase a refrigerator that does not include an icemaker because they often need repair. The following are common repair needs for refrigerators and an estimate of their cost:
- Failing door gaskets – replacement - $200 estimate
- Defrost timer – replacement - $190 estimate
- Ice maker/water dispenser replacement - $300 estimate
- Refrigerator compressor - $550 estimate
Some signs of problems with your refrigerator may be:
- Electrical failure – shown by failure of the lights or failure to cool or freeze
- Water leaking from the refrigerator may indicate a broken water line or a malfunctioning water filter
- Noisy operation can indicate fan trouble or a compressor problem
- Condensation or mold – can indicate leaky door gaskets or a defective case heater.
There are more choices than ever for refrigerators now even though basic cooling technologies are the same. Look for a refrigerator with the most convenient layout for your use and your price range. Choose the features that make the most difference to you. Such things as:
- Useful features such as ice and water dispensers, adjustable shelves, and humidity controlled vegetable crispers that are desirable to you.
- Well-lit interior so things don't get lost in the back
- Excellent temperature control to keep food fresh
- Durable construction – for durability
- Readable and usable controls
- Surfaces that are easy to clean – wire shelves do not contain leaks as well as solid ones
- Looks that appeal to you and fit with your décor
When shopping for a refrigerator, pay attention to the size of the unit, cost, warranty, as well as the cost of operation over a year's time. Check the cost of the refrigerator you choose online and then go to the dealer to discuss reduction of the cost. Polite discussion can reduce the bottom line by $95 or more.
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