|
The purchase of a new compact refrigerator isn’t going to be as costly as purchasing a new full size
refrigerator but it is an appliance that you will have in your home for a long time. Go ahead and set a budget
before you begin shopping and to do some research.
Below are a few tips to keep in mind before you begin shopping that will help you to find the best compact refrigerator with freezer.
|
Contents at a Glance:
-
How Much Space Do I Need?
-
What Colors and Finishes are Available?
-
Which Accessories Make Sense?
-
Energy Star - Save $$$
-
Extended Warranty - Not Worth the $$$
-
Top Compact Refrigerator with Freezer with Reviews!
|
How Much Space Do I Need?
After setting your budget you need to calculate exactly how much space you have available? Since you’re shopping
for a compact refrigerator with freezer space may be at a premium, so make some exact measurements. When
considering how much space you have available don't forget to make a note that you need either a model that opens
to the right or to the left? Most units can be switched but it's easier to have the door on the correct side
to begin with.
What Colors and Finishes Are Available?
What type of colors and finishes do you prefer? You’re color selection will be influenced by the other
colors already in your kitchen. It’s usually a good idea to stay with a neutral color and, one that won’t soon go
out of style. You will find a standard range of exterior colors from almond, biscuit and black offered by most
manufacturers.
Which Accessories/Options Make Sense?
Have you thought about the specific accessories that are" must haves" and the ones that would "be nice" to have
on your compact refrigerator with freezer. Think about the features
you like about your current refrigerator or which ones you wish you had. The types of options you choose
can significantly increase the cost of your new refrigerator. You need to consider how important special
features are to you and if they are worth the price. Here are a few of the features you may want to
consider:
- Automatic ice maker
- Through-the-door ice and/or water delivery
- Tempered glass shelves
- Gallon-sized door bins
- Full-width snack drawer
- Can dispensers
- Wine or bottle racks
- Egg containers
- Adjustable shelving
Automatic ice makers and through-the-door dispensers increase energy use by 14%
–20%. They also raise the purchase price by $75–$250.
Energy Star - Save $$$
With the cost of energy continuing to increase, energy efficiency is also an
important buying consideration – look for the ENERGY STAR label. To find
out how much your freezer or refrigerator costs to operate annually and how much you might just click
here
Energy Star. ENERGY STAR qualified
refrigerators are required by the U.S. Department of Energy to use 20% less energy than models not labeled with the
ENERGY STAR logo.
Extended Warranty - Not Worth the $$$
Most refrigerators come with a basic warranty that covers one year of parts and labor and five
years for the sealed refrigerator system and you can usually purchase an extended warranty plan at the time of
purchase. Refrigerator reliability is generally excellent today, so you when considering this option you may want
to consider this advice from J.D. Power and Associates Reports: High Reliability of
Major Home Appliances May Reduce Need for Extended Warranties:
"Extended warranties certainly provide a degree of peace of mind," said Dale Haines, senior director of the
real estate and construction industries practice at J.D. Power and Associates. "With some appliances — particularly
those with complex electronics and potentially high repair costs — purchasing an extended warranty may make sense.
However, major appliances tend to be very reliable, and consumers should consider very carefully — depending
upon their circumstances — whether an extended warranty is worth the additional cost."
Top Models and Reviews
If you have shopped for refrigerators then you may recognize some of the manufacturers’ names in this market as
well but you will also see some names you may not recognize. Just follow the links to our comments, specs and
reviews for these top models:
Compact Refrigerator with Freezer - GE
Compact Refrigerator with Freezer - Whirlpool
Compact Refrigerator with Freezer - Avanti
Compact Refrigerator with Freezer - Kenmore
Resources
|