How to Choose a Refrigerator

Refrigerators are kitchen appliances that are used to keep food and drinks cold. They are found in homes, offices hotels, and college dorms.

Some refrigerators are equipped with intelligent features, such as cameras and sensors. Some refrigerators are equipped with touchscreens that let you watch videos or search for recipes, view family calendars, and shopping lists, or even write notes.

Control of Temperature

The ideal temperature for your refrigerator ensures food safety and prevent the food from spoiling. This is particularly important for food items such as eggs and milk, which can quickly turn rotten when exposed to temperatures that are not ideal but stay stable in the refrigerator. Refrigerators are also extensively used to store pharmaceuticals like drugs and vaccines that become less effective as time passes. Refrigerator monitoring systems are available to help ensure a medical facility or laboratory maintains an appropriate cold chain.

The internal thermal insulator of a refrigerator keeps its contents cooler than the surrounding air. It makes use of an energy source to transport warm air out of the refrigerator into an insulated compartment, where it becomes very cold. The refrigerator has a controlled system that turns on the cooling system when its internal temperature is higher than a predetermined threshold. This prevents bacteria from growing inside the refrigerator.

Each refrigerator zone is designed to serve a specific purpose. The lower shelves are ideal for perishables, such as fresh vegetables and meats that require the minimum temperature to preserve their texture and taste. The shelves should be kept clear to allow cool air to circulate through the refrigerator. A separate deli drawer can be used to store soft cheeses and cured meats to create the perfect charcuterie platter.

Some refrigerators feature stainless steel or glass doors to safeguard the interior. They also make it easy to clean. Some refrigerators come with a door alarm that can be programmed. It will alert you if the fridge larder or freezer is left open too long. They can be set to alert multiple individuals and in escalating tiers depending on your requirements. You can set them up to send temperature graphs by text or email.

Most refrigerators have built-in thermometers however for those who don't, a stand-alone appliance thermometer is an inexpensive way to monitor the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator. It's important to check the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator often, especially in the event of a power failure or when temperature settings are altered manually. Ideal temperature for both the refrigerator and freezer is 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Storage Capacity

The capacity of your refrigerator is an important factor when choosing the model that is most suitable for your needs. There are many sizes available including small models with a capacity less than 15 cubic foot to larger models that can hold more than 26 cubic foot. Take into consideration your family's cooking preferences and the number of people living in your house to determine the best size for you. For two people the average of between 11 and 13 cubic foot of refrigerator space is enough, while 18 to 22 cubic feet is recommended.

In addition to assessing the overall space of your kitchen consider the depth of your refrigerator. Certain models are deeper than others, which allows them to fit into small spaces without taking up too much room under the counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option. They have a depth similar to the depth of a typical kitchen cabinet front, however the handles can extend a bit further. They are a great option for homes with limited counter space. They also appear sleeker.

Find out about the refrigerator's energy consumption and the level of noise when you are shopping. There are many manufacturers that provide quieter refrigerators for residential use. Some offer refrigerators with lower electricity consumption than similar models. Take a look at the yellow Energy Guide label on appliances to find out about the typical energy consumption for the specific model. Also, test a model's operation by opening and closing the doors.

The pantry drawer is usually a full width section of the refrigerator, with separate temperature controls. It can be used to store various things. These drawers are particularly useful for storing party trays and wine, as they allow you to store them at specific temperatures. Based on the model, these drawers may include pre-programmed settings to store wines, deli meats and soft drinks.

Energy Efficiency

Refrigerators use a lot of energy. It is therefore important to choose a energy-efficient refrigerator. The good news is that refrigerators have improved in energy efficiency over the years. The insulation, motors, and magnetic door seals of a modern refrigerator consume less energy than a refrigerator that is of the same size. You can reduce the electricity consumption of your refrigerator refridgerator more by buying a model that is highly energy efficient. A refrigerator that is Energy Star certified will consume much less energy than an equivalent model that is ten years old or more.

It is important to consider the energy efficiency of consumers who have limited access to electricity grids. Refrigerators for homes that are off grid are typically among the most expensive appliances. Their high energy consumption also implies that they require large amounts of solar home systems that are not affordable for many families who earn less than $2 per day. The annual energy consumption of a refrigerator is therefore a key factor in determining whether it is economical for consumers to purchase and maintain (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).

To understand how fridges function, we start with the basic refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools by pushing a liquid refrigerant through a sealed device that begins as a liquid, and then goes through a compressor which compresses the liquid into a liquid. This vapor flows into coils outside the refrigerator and draws heat out of it. It then cools, and turns back to liquid. This process repeats over and over again, keeping food cold as the vapor moves through the coils.

Refrigerators are still among the most expensive appliances that consumers who are not connected to the grid can purchase however, improving their energy efficiency will make them more affordable. By decreasing the amount of energy they use the refrigerator can be powered by an enlarge SHS, which will reduce the overall system cost for consumers. Energy savings vary depending on the size, style, and features of the refrigerator. For instance, ice-makers and through-the-door water dispensers add cost, but can substantially increase the energy use and, in turn, increase the SHS required to power it.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance and inspection can greatly improve the lifespan of your refrigerator. Examine the condenser, ice maker and defrost drain. Also, check the seals on the door. Cleaning and replacing water filter is also vital. These easy maintenance tasks will ensure the longevity of your refrigerator and also save money on your energy bills.

The easiest and refridgerator most effective refrigerator maintenance task is to clean the inside of your refrigerator regularly. This includes throwing away old food items, wiping down shelves and crispers, walls, and the inside of your refrigerator's doors. This will prevent unpleasant odors as well as reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses. A refrigerator thermometer is recommended to check the temperature of your fridge frequently. A refrigerator that isn't properly maintained could experience temperature fluctuations, which could cause food spoilage and an increase in your electric bill.

The condenser coils in your refrigerator are also required to be cleaned every two years. This will eliminate any hair, dirt, grime or other debris that has built up. The coils are located at the rear or bottom of your appliance. They're essentially radiator-like parts that help remove heat from your refrigerator. If they are dirty, they aren't able to release heat effectively, and your refrigerator will require more energy to run.

Another thing you should be checking often is the gasket in your refrigerator, which is designed to create an airtight seal between your refrigerator and your home's ductwork. This is crucial to ensure that your fridge's contents stay cold However, over time, the seal could wear down from greased fingerprints, sticky syrups and dripping beverages. Wipe your fridge's seal with an abrasive towel to keep it in good condition.

It is also a good idea to clean the drip tray, which is usually under the compressor unit of the refrigerator. This pan is used to collect the water that is drained from the refrigerator's defrost process. It should be cleaned regularly to prevent the development of mold and unpleasant odors.