What to Look For In a New Refrigerator
Is it time to buy a new refrigerator? There are so many styles and configurations to choose from, that it can be difficult. Some of new styles are French door models, side-by-side, top freezer, bottom freezer door-in-door and insta-view.
What are the things you need to keep in mind when looking for a new refrigerator?
Make Sure It Will Fit
Refrigerators come in all sizes. Unlike stoves and dishwashers, a refrigerator is not designed to fit in a standard-sized opening.
To avoid surprise on delivery day, measure the height and width of the space. Allow an extra inch or two to make installation easier, and to provide adequate ventilation.
Make sure the refrigerator doors will open completely.
Measure any doors the fridge has to go through on the way to its destination. Measure the counter depth, to see how far out the refrigerator will be. Most refrigerators will stick out past your counters to allow easy access to the door.
Consider a built-in if you want an exact fit with your cabinetry.
Energy Efficiency
Use the energy guide sticker to compare the annual operating costs of the units you’re considering.
There are several key pieces of information on the sticker
- Features of the appliance
- Manufacturer, model and capacity
- Estimated yearly operating cost (based on national average electricity cost)
- Estimated yearly electrical consumption
- Energy Star logo, for appliances that meet strict energy standards
You can use this information to see which of the models you’re considering have the cheapest operating cost.
Ask About Delivery and Haul Away
Moving a refrigerator in and out of your house can be quite a task, especially if stairs are involved.
Find out if delivery is included with the price of the new unit. Ask about the removal of your current refrigerator. Many people will keep their old refrigerator as a spare “beer fridge”. If you are keeping your current fridge, ask if there is a charge for helping you move it.
Don’t forget to ask about connecting the water line, if you have a built-in ice maker.
Extra Features
Refrigerators are coming with more and more options. Keep in mind that each new feature comes with a price tag.
Through-the-door Ice and Water Dispenser is the feature most requested by buyers. These units are more prone to repair and come with higher energy costs. You are trading storage space for ice water.
Door-in-door access is another popular feature. This feature lets you grab frequently used items without opening the entire door. This results in better energy efficiency, and will save energy costs in the long run.
Cameras and Windows offer a way for you to see what’s inside the refrigerator without opening the doors. Internal cameras can be viewed from your smartphone while you’re out shopping. This can be very helpful to keep track of what you have on hand.
Shopping for a new refrigerator can be fun. Keep these basics in mind, and you’ll find a model that is just right for you.
