Refrigerator Size

Today use much less energy than their previous counterparts. However, if you buy a refrigerator that is larger than your needs, you will end up spending more on your electricity bill than is necessary. Here are some questions you should consider while refrigerator shopping:

  • How many people are in your household?
  • Will there be enough space in the kitchen for the doors to fully open?
  • Are the shelves removeable or rearrangeable?
  • Are the drawers the right size for the food you plan on buying?
  • Do you freeze food in large quantities?
  • What color do you want?

Refrigerator Styles Available

  1. Top Freezer Refrigerator: This is probably the most common style of fridge available and is also the lowest priced and easiest to use. The freezer is a separate compartment above the refrigerator, proving plenty of space for an ice maker, frozen foods and snacks.
  2. : This style is usually more expensive than other types of refrigerators because they are built for kitchens with specific style requirements. The vent on these refrigerators are on the front, allowing them to be built in to cabinetry and walls with zero clearance needed on the sides. Other refrigerators require 2-3 inches on the sides and in the back for proper venting.
  3. Side-by-Side Freezer Refrigerator: This type of refrigerator can cost 30-35% more than top freezer refrigerators to operate. However, the narrow doors mean they can fit in a tighter space. They also offer more storage capacity than top or bottom freezer designs.
  4. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator: This style costs more than top freezer refrigerators, but less than the side-by-side models. Bottom freezer units put the drawers in the refrigerator closer to eye-level, but means you must bend over to access frozen items.

Refrigerator Features

  • Auto-Defrost: Automatic defrosting keeps frost from building up in the refrigerator and freezer. If a refrigerator only features partial auto defrost, then it will only defrost the refrigerator automatically and the freezer must be manually defrosted. Manual defrost means the owner will have to turn the refrigerator off and remove the ice build up and water by hand.
  • Ice & Water Dispenser: This feature will add to the cost of the refrigerator, but provides a convenience that might be worth it to some.
  • Energy Rating: The energy guide label on refrigerators should provide a good overview of the refrigerator's energy costs.
  • Warranty: Most refrigerators come with at least a one-year warranty that covers parts and labor. Extended warranties can be purchased from the appliance dealer, but you should check to see what parts and services are covered in the extended service contract.

Check Out These refrigerator parts Auctions Over At eBay:

Freezer Refrigerator Spare Parts Strainer Copper Filter Drier
US $4.17
End Date: Saturday May-19-2012 19:38:29 PDT
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GE REFRIGERATOR DEFROST CONTROL 16HR 35M PART # WR9X489
US $6.95
End Date: Saturday May-19-2012 20:43:34 PDT
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FRIGIDAIRE FRIDGE GLASS SHELF PART # 240350126
US $45.95
End Date: Sunday May-20-2012 9:39:21 PDT
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Good luck finding the perfect refrigerator for your kitchen!

Christine Wilson is an appliance expert with CompactAppliance.com. She has a thorough knowledge of full-size refrigerators, mini fridges and other compact models.

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