Are You Looking For A New Fridge/Freezer?
Buying a new refrigerator and freezer is a big decision There are many things to take into consideration, depending on the size of your space, the colour and finish you require and any special features you may need.
Both fridges and freezers can be expensive items and the price will vary from brand to brand, it is advisable to spend as much as your budget allows to purchase a reliable brand which will last your family for a long time.
The first thing to consider will be the configuration that you are looking for:
Side-by-side fridge/freezers, also known as American style fridge/freezer are different to most tall fridge/freezers as they feature double doors that open from the middle outwards, rather than a single door. With this type of fridge/freezer you will have to bend down to get food out of the bottom of both the fridge and the freezer.
French door refrigerators are the latest in refrigerator design. These refrigerators have two doors that open outwards, with the split in the middle. They can open individually or both together with the freezer section usually being a pull out drawer at the bottom of the unit.
Top and Bottom fridge/freezers have one door for the fridge and one door for the freezer. It is preferable for most people to have the fridge at the top as this is often used the most.
A counter-depth refrigerator is designed to offer similar storage to a regular, full-size refrigerator in a style that generally doesn't stick out more than an inch or two past the kitchen counters and cabinets.
A built-in fridge/freezer fits into your kitchen cabinets and is fitted with a panel in the same design. It will fit in seamlessly and will not stick out.
When shopping for a new refrigerator and freezer you will need to check out the following:
The Dimensions - Your fridge typically has to fit in a certain space in your kitchen, so you'll need to make sure you measure the width and depth you have as available space. Built-in models sit flush with your counter and cabinet’s but they may come with a higher price tag.
Which colour and finish are you looking for - Stainless steel is the most popular because it has a sleek look, alternatively you may prefer a white or black fridge. With a built-in model an exterior cabinet door is fitted to your fridge/freezer which matches your kitchen cabinets. Especially if you have children, it may be advisable to find a finish which is fingerprint resistant.
What features are looking for – you will need to ensure you have adequate shelving to meet your needs, you may need space for items such as wine and bottles or maybe you would like a built-in water dispenser. Some fridges also offer humidity controls on crisper drawers, meat or deli drawers, and other features for keeping foods at the ideal storage temp.
Here's our guide to some great models available on the market at the moment:
- GE Profile Series French-Door Refrigerator
- Maytag Wide French Door Refrigerator
- LG InstaView Door-in-Door
- GE Café French-Door Refrigerator
- Miele PerfectCool Series
- Whirlpool 36-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator
- Frigidaire Gallery 30-Inch Top Freezer Refrigerator
- LG Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
