It may have been a while since you’ve shopped for a new refrigerator. While their purpose remains the same, there are new technologies to keep your ingredients fresher for longer.
With more style and configuration options on offer than ever before, we’re here to help simplify your decision-making process with this helpful fridge buying guide. Read on to discover valuable tips on how to choose a refrigerator for your needs.
1. Refrigerator capacity
What is refrigerator capacity?
When it comes to choosing the right refrigerator for your family, understanding its capacity is crucial to determine how well it will meet your storage needs.
The capacity of a refrigerator refers to the total volume of storage space available inside the unit, typically measured in liters or cubic feet. When exploring product specifications, you'll encounter two primary terms: gross capacity and net capacity.
- Gross capacity: Represents the total volume of the refrigerator, essentially the outer dimensions of the refrigerator, such as the length, width and height.
- Net capacity: Indicates the usable storage space within the refrigerator. It's the volume that's actually available for storing your food and beverages. This is the figure you should primarily focus on when comparing different models.
How to choose a fridge capacity by family size
Whether you are living in a family home or with housemates, the size of your household will affect what is ultimately the best refrigerator capacity for you. Generally, a larger family will require a larger refrigerator to accommodate their food storage needs.
Here’s a simple guide table to help you visualize the relationship between household size and refrigerator volume:
|
Family size (number of people) |
Refrigerator capacity (litres) |
|
1 - 2 people |
200 - 380 litres |
|
3 - 4 people |
350 - 530 litres |
|
5+ people |
440+ litres |
Consider these guidelines as a starting point, and adjust based on your specific needs, such as planning for family expansion or frequent entertaining, which might benefit from a larger refrigerator capacity. If you are on the fence about whether to go bigger or smaller, we advise you to go a little bit larger than you think as you may, at different times of the year, run out of space.
Read more:
2. Types of refrigerators
French door refrigerators
French door refrigerators are the large capacity refrigerator freezer appliance perfect for any home. They come with plenty of storage and style options such as adjustable storage, as well as ice & water dispensers.
You can configure these into three sections - two refrigeration sections and one large freezer or two refrigeration sections and two freezer sections. Some models include a middle drawer which can be converted from refrigerator to freezer.
Ideal for:
- Large family
- Large kitchens
- Entertainer
Check out our French door refrigerators:
- TasteSealFlex ideal storage with 5 temperatures.
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- TwinTech cooling help preserves taste and texture.
- Storage space for all types of food and drinks.
- TasteLockPlus keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- AutoIce maker ensures you always have ice at hand.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
Side by side refrigerators
Side-by-side refrigerators offer a sleek, modern design that fits well in any kitchen. These models feature two doors, opening from the center, with the fridge on one side and the freezer on the other, making both sections easily accessible. This layout is ideal for families who frequently use both compartments.
Ideal for:
- Large family
- Large kitchens
- Share house
Bottom freezer refrigerators
A bottom freezer refrigerator is perfect for a small family or apartment living where your space is limited. Coming with quite a few features seen in large capacity refrigerators, this layout is perfect for someone who wants easy access to their refrigerator over their freezer.
Ideal for:
- Small family
- Apartment living
- Share house
Check out our bottom freezer refrigerators:
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
- TasteGuard keeps your fridge smelling fresh*.
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
- Spacious freezer provides ample storage.
- TasteSeal keeps fish for 7 days* without freezing.
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
Top freezer refrigerators
A top freezer refrigerator is a more traditional layout of single door refrigerator with the freezer placed at the top for eye level access for your frozen ingredients or treats. This style of refrigerator would be suitable for a small family or apartment living where you access your freezer quite regularly.
Ideal for:
- Small family
- Apartment living
- Share house
Check out our top freezer refrigerators:
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
- ChillRoom is ideal for meat, cheese, and snacks.
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
- ChillRoom is ideal for meat, cheese, and snacks.
- TasteSeal keeps fish for 7 days* without freezing.
- TasteLockAuto keeps vegetables fresh for 7 days*.
- EvenTemp reduces temperature fluctuations.
*Disclaimer: Pictures are for illustration purpose only and not necessarily the products that are sold.
3. Refrigerator sizes and kitchen layout
When choosing a refrigerator, it's crucial to consider not only the capacity but also its physical dimensions. A refrigerator that doesn't fit your kitchen layout or is too large for your space can lead to inconvenience and inefficiency.
Here’s how to accurately measure for a new refrigerator:
Measure your space
- Width: Measure the width of the space where you plan to place the refrigerator. Do this at several points to account for any irregularities like uneven walls or protruding baseboards.
- Height: Measure from the floor to any overhead obstruction like cabinets. Measure in multiple locations to compensate for uneven floors.
- Depth: Consider the depth of the space, keeping in mind that the refrigerator doors need to swing open. There should be sufficient space in front of the refrigerator to allow easy access and airflow.
Plan the delivery path
Note any tight entryways, corners, and narrow hallways that the refrigerator must pass through upon delivery. Use the width and depth measurements to ensure your new refrigerator can be moved into your kitchen without issue.
Installation area considerations:
- Ensure that the space where you plan to install the refrigerator does not obstruct kitchen traffic or interfere with the use of other appliances.
- Consider the swing direction of the refrigerator doors and whether they can open fully without hitting islands, counters, or other obstacles.
Read more: Modern small kitchen ideas to maximize your kitchen space
Important notes:
- Always check for any additional space requirements specified by the manufacturer for installation.
- Leave at least 2cm of space on the sides and back of the refrigerator for proper ventilation.
- Consider future changes in your kitchen layout or potential moves that might require different refrigerator dimensions.
4. Energy efficiency
One of the most important factors in selecting a refrigerator is its energy efficiency. Not only does it help reduce your carbon footprint but also lowers your electricity bills.
Refrigerators are graded with Energy Star ratings, where a higher star rating indicates better energy efficiency. Models with 5-star ratings are the most energy-efficient, consuming less power and offering more cost savings over time. These refrigerators might have a higher upfront cost but typically pay off in the long run through reduced utility bills.
Modern refrigerators often come equipped with features that enhance their energy efficiency. These include inverter compressors that adjust cooling speeds based on demand, vacuum insulation panels, and other technologies that minimize energy loss. Always check the energy label and compare the annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) to gauge how much the appliance will cost to run annually.
5. Refrigerator features to look for
When purchasing a new refrigerator, it's crucial to consider the latest technologies designed to enhance food preservation, improve usability, and make your kitchen more efficient. Here are key features to consider when selecting your next refrigerator:
Advanced temperature control
Refrigerators equipped with advanced temperature control systems provide a stable environment that helps extend the shelf life of your food, ensuring everything from meats to vegetables remains fresh for longer. Features such as independent cooling systems and humidity controls work together to maintain optimal conditions within the fridge. Here's how Electrolux models make this possible:
- TasteSeal: This compartment provides precise temperature control, keeping meat and fish fresh for up to 7 days.
- TasteLockAuto: Automatically adjusts humidity levels to keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer.
- TwinTech Cooling: This innovative technology uses two separate cooling systems to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments.
- EvenTemp: Ensures consistent temperature throughout the refrigerator, preventing temperature fluctuations that can spoil food.
Hygiene and odor control
Maintaining a clean and odor-free refrigerator is essential for food safety and can enhance the flavor of your stored items. Electrolux refrigerators feature advanced hygiene and odor control technologies like TasteGuard to eliminate smells and maintain a hygienic storage environment.
Check out more manual cleaning tips from Electrolux India:
Energy efficiency
Electrolux’s NutriFresh Inverter keeps temperatures consistent and uses less energy, contributing to lower electricity bills and environmental impact.
Convenience and design
Modern fridges, such as multidoor refrigerators, are not just about keeping food cold; they are also designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle and kitchen aesthetics while meeting your storage needs. Electrolux refrigerators come with a variety of features that enhance convenience and elevate the design of your kitchen.
- WaterStream and AutoIce: Enjoy the convenience of filtered water and ice, right at your fingertips.
- QuickChill: Quickly lowers the temperature of food and drinks to a low temperature of 2°C for up to 90 minutes.
- FlexStor: Customize your refrigerator's interior to accommodate items of various sizes.
- Sleek design: Choose from a range of stylish designs, including sleek stainless steel and fingerprint-resistant finishes.
6. Budget considerations
Refrigerators range widely in price, from budget-friendly basic models to high-end units with all the latest features. Before shopping for a new refrigerator, set a budget and prioritize the features that will truly benefit your household.
Remember, a slightly higher upfront cost for an energy-efficient model can often lead to significant savings on your electricity bills over time. By carefully considering your budget and long-term needs, you can select a refrigerator that offers both value and performance.
7. Consult reviews and ratings
When choosing a refrigerator, consulting reviews and ratings from other consumers can provide invaluable insights into the appliance's performance, reliability, and the manufacturer's claims. These real-life opinions help paint a clearer picture of how the refrigerator functions in daily life and highlight any potential strengths or issues.
For a reliable place to start, you can check out Electrolux India’s top-rated refrigerator reviews to see what our real users have to say about their experiences.
Refrigerator FAQs
-
What features should I look for in a refrigerator?
Some popular features to consider include:
- Adjustable shelving
- Through-the-door ice and water dispensers
- Multi-zone temperature control
- Door alarms and child locks
-
What are the most energy-efficient refrigerators?
Look for models with a high energy efficiency rating, such as those with a 5-star rating label. These refrigerators consume less electricity, saving you money on energy bills.
-
What to avoid when buying a fridge?
- Too small or too big capacity
- Low energy efficiency
- Wrong dimensions for your space
- Missing essential features
- Not setting a budget beforehand
- Poor build quality
-
How long does a refrigerator typically last?
Most refrigerators last 10-15 years, depending on the brand, usage, and maintenance. Investing in a reliable brand and proper care can extend its lifespan.
-
What temperature should a refrigerator be?
According to U.S. Food and Drug Administration, refrigerator temperature is recommended to be at or below 4° Celsius. However, not all refrigerators are equipped with a thermometer, making determining the right temperature confusing. Fortunately, the price of refrigerator thermometer is considerably cheap and can be bought at most kitchen appliance stores.