Tips for Buying a New Refrigerator
What to Consider So This Kitchen Appliance Meets The Family's Needs
Jul 1, 2009
Time to replace the refrigerator? Put some thought into how the family lives, cooks and shops and be satisfied with the purchase for years to come.
Before you start shopping for a refrigerator, remember that it's of the utmost importance to bring measurements along , because refrigerators are available in a wide variety of sizes, including different heights, widths and depths. Measure the width, depth and height of the spot where the refrigerator will be located and take the measurements shopping.
- Make it a rule to double check any fact or figures that affects your final decision before buying. Call or fax the manufacturer’s information line for a spec sheet or to ask specific questions or verify measurements, door swings and clearances before you order.
- A good salesperson will try to match a refrigerator to a family's lifestyle. Be prepared to answer questions about your budget, how you shop and what kinds of foods the family eats. For example, in tight spaces a small side-by-side works best because the door swing is smaller. Gourmet cooks, stir fryers, and vegetarians might prefer a top- or bottom-mount because the shelf width and the large crispers provide more space for fresh produce. A bottom-mount keeps the most frequently used items at the most convenient height for those with back problems
- If price is a prime consideration, say so.
- Like just about any other consumer product, you get what you pay for with a refrigerator. The entry-level, low-end model will keep food cold, but lacks features like adjustable, spill-proof shelves, humidity controlled crispers, rollout bins or pullout freezer shelf and interior lights
- Before leaving home, note the old refrigerator brand. Did it perform well? Then start with that brand this time.
- How long is the refrigerator warranty? Does it cover the entire appliance? Does it move with you? One year on parts and labor is the standard. Be sure to check the warranty on the compressor system, the only major part of a refrigerator that can fail. Almost all refrigerators come with a five-year warranty, but some offer ten.
- What features are “must haves” for the family? Be sure they'll be used regularly before paying more.
- Remember, the larger the capacity of the refrigerator, the fewer necessary trips to the supermarket.
- Top-mount and bottom-mount refrigerators pack more storage into less width than side-by-sides.
- If you freeze items like casseroles and lasagna, take favorite pans to the store and make sure they fit in both the freezer and the refrigerator sections.
- A refrigerator consumes the most energy of all home appliances because it runs 24 hours a day. According to the United States Department of Energy the refrigerator accounts for as much as 12-20% of the total power used in an average household in one year. This is one appliance category where it really pays to replace an inefficient, old model and to compare the yellow energy use labels on different models.
Measure carefully before shopping. Consider features and "must haves" for the family. Factor in price, capacity, energy use and warranty to make a wise choice on this must-have appliance purchase.
The copyright of the article Tips for Buying a New Refrigerator in Home Renovation/Repair is owned by Elaine Petrowski. Permission to republish Tips for Buying a New Refrigerator in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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