Overview:
Appliances are a major household purchase and investing a few minutes to learn the facts can help you make an informed decision. Refrigerators are the focal point for most kitchens and regardless of how comfortable the living room couches are, the kitchen is always the place where people seem to gather. When it's time to purchase a new refrigerator, there are a variety of factors to consider. New designs and features have spiced up the decision-making process and today's models are brimming with versatile storage options and food preservation features. Before you open the door to compartments filled with spill-proof shelves, ice and water dispensers, adjustable door bins and humidity-controlled crispers, allow the information below to ease you into the current state of refrigeration.
Basics for Buying
For many, buying a new refrigerator is something that hasn't been done in over a decade, and for others, it's their first time out. Refrigerators are a major household appliance and there are a number of factors to consider. They are a serious investment and require a strategic approach. Before you get too far ahead of yourself, toss around the information below.
Energy Efficiency
|
Finishing Touches
|
Food Preservation
|
Storage
|
Where to Begin
Design
Selecting the refrigerator that's right for you on the outside is just as important as the inside. You have the power to choose the color, finish and design, so go ahead and create the kitchen of your dreams.
Built-In
|
Colors
|
Counter-Depth
|
Doors
|
Materials and Finishes
|
Trim Kits
Installation and Accessories
Regardless of how much time and money you spend during your refrigerator selection process, if the measurements aren't right, it just won't fit. Be precise and gather accurate measurements, and purchase the accessories you need beforehand, so your new refrigerator will be up and running when delivered.
Ice Maker Kits
|
Installation Tips and Guidelines
|
Water Filters
Performance
Refrigerators require ongoing operation, making them the largest energy consumer in your home. With today's models, there are various features which enable you to reduce energy consumption and be more energy efficient.
Energy Efficiency and ENERGY STAR
|
Maintenance
|
Operation
Size and Capacity
How much refrigerator do you need? The size and capacity of a refrigerator are major factors to consider. Determine the amount of people using the refrigerator and the amount of space that's available in your kitchen to make an appropriate choice.
Exterior Dimensions
|
Interior Capacities
Storage
Once you've narrowed your search to the type, size and capacity you require in a refrigerator, shopping for features is the next step (and great fun). Among common storage features lay multifaceted and dynamic options to enhance your refrigeration experience and improve the quality of food preservation.
Convenient Features
|
Freezer Compartment
|
Refrigerator Compartment
Type
Purchasing a refrigerator is an exciting process because of the enormous variety that are available. Your refrigerator options include side-by-side, top-freezer and bottom-freezer, as well as specialty units. Both freestanding and built-in configurations are available in the types below, so you'll be able to select the refrigerator that's right for you and your kitchen.
Bottom-Freezer
|
Built-In
|
Counter-Depth
|
Side-by-Side
|
Specialty
|
Top-Freezer
