Refrigerators

A Guide to Understanding Refrigerators

The epicenter of kitchen operations, the refrigerator offers the modern convenience of cooler storage with the added bonus of aesthetic appeal. Typically setting the design theme for the entire kitchen, refrigerators offer several model and design options.

Types of Refrigerators

• Top-freezer refrigerators: Considered the "classic style," top-freezer refrigerators have a smaller freezer component located above the refrigerator below, and typically offer the most storage for their size. They also tend to be the least expensive full-size models.
• Bottom-freezer refrigerators: Bottom-freezer refrigerators are typically less space-efficient than top-freezer models, but they offer the convenience having the refrigerator-rather than the freezer, which is less used-at eye level.
• Side-by-side refrigerators: Splitting the refrigerator and freezer down the middle, side-by-side refrigerators are usually the models with through-the-door ice makers. While the short width can limit accessibility for bigger box sizes, the smaller doors are a pleasant touch for kitchens with limited space.
• French-door refrigerators: Offering the convenience of small side-by-side doors without the width limitations, French-door refrigerators use the entire upper section for refrigeration, with a bottom-freezer component that pulls out like a drawer. Typically more expensive, these models are becoming increasingly popular.
• Built-in refrigerators: Built-in refrigerators are great for saving space, and they often add a sleek look to your kitchen layout. Many non-custom installers require panel-ready fronts for easy cabinet matching, but stainless steel options are typically more attractive.
• Cabinet-depth refrigerators: To avoid the cost of built-in model installation, cabinet-depth refrigerators have less space, but will slide in between cabinetry with a custom look. Many come with optional panels to match your kitchen design, and models are available in side-by-side, top- and bottom-freezer and French-door.
• Miniature (compact) refrigerators: Ideal for game rooms and dormitories, miniature refrigerators typically offer one to four cubic feet of storage space and often cost under $100. Most do not come with a freezer component, although some have an ice-maker drawer.
• Refrigerator drawers: A recent custom luxury, refrigerator drawers can be installed under a countertop or within a kitchen island for extra perishable storage space. Due to their limited capacity, their running costs are typically low.

Important Refrigerator Features

• Size is everything. Unless you live alone, chances are that you will need more space than you think you will. Also, while depth may be appealing in thinner models, it may actually cause more difficulty, as items can become hard to reach or find once your refrigerator is full.
• Energy efficiency can be tricky. While several models tout how efficient they are, many do not save at all. But if this is a quality you find important, then look for models that save 15 to 20 percent energy, and do not let Energy Star seals deter you. Manufacturers are responsible for testing their own products, and the qualification standard is only a 5-percent energy reduction from previous models, a small and also misleading ratio.
• Handles may seem trivial, but they say a lot about a refrigerator's quality. Be wary of models with screw-on handles or thin design, which break easily if the door gets to heavy. Instead, look for built-in handles (most common in stainless steel models). Also, there is a difference between left-handed and right-handed refrigerators. For convenience, be aware of which works best for you and your kitchen space.

Refrigerator Cost and Style

Refrigerator costs can range from very low ($200 to $400) to very high ($2,000 to $3,000, and even more for custom), but the average functional refrigerator will cost anywhere between $800 and $1,500, depending mostly on the features you are looking for as well as size and brand.
Typical refrigerator interiors are made from stainless steel or white aluminum, while the outside can be bisque, black, glass, panel-ready, stainless or white. Glass designs are refreshing, but they are only ideal for inherently neat homeowners. The transparent door allows all passersby to view your refrigerator's contents, and the glass will require regular cleaning. White and black options are most popular, due to the simplicity and lower cost, but stainless steel will go with any kitchen design and often looks clean and expensive without much upkeep.

Refrigerator To-Do List

1. Choose where you will put the refrigerator. While some models come with reversible doors, most do not, so realizing which way the doors will open is just as important as making sure the refrigerator fits in your kitchen. Corners are typically bad locations, because they limit accessibility, so look for convenient locations between cabinets or near door spaces, where space is most available.
2. Select what kind of refrigerator you want and the features that are important to you. Once you have an idea of your location, you can decide on which designs will work best for the space. If you prefer bottom-freezer refrigerators, consider purchasing a French-door design, because it offers easier visibility and accessibility. If you care about the environment (or your electric bill), investigate energy efficiency labels.
3. Verify warranties. Companies have been scaling back good warranties, so study your options. For the best results, look for refrigerators with multiple warranties-one for parts and service, another for the seal and another for critical parts like the compressor and condenser-rather than settling for a single warranty plan. Also, if you'll be purchasing with a credit card, check with your provider. Some offer extended warranties on appliances.