How to Choose a Refrigerator

Refrigerators are kitchen appliances utilized to keep food and beverages cold. They are commonly used in homes and in hotels, offices and dorm rooms at colleges.

Some refrigerators are equipped with sophisticated features such as sensors and cameras. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that let you watch videos, look up recipes, look up family calendars and shopping lists or leave notes for family members.

Temperature Control

The correct refrigerator temperature ensures that food items are safe for storage and slows the degradation of many food items due to spoilage. This is especially true for food such as eggs and milk that can quickly rot at room temperature however, they remain stable at refrigerator levels. Refrigerators are also extensively used to store pharmaceutical products such as vaccines and drugs that become less effective with time. Refrigerator monitoring systems are readily available to ensure that an medical laboratory or medical facility has a safe cold chain.

A refrigerator has an internal thermal insulator that helps keep its contents cooler than the surrounding air. The heat pump transports warm air from outside the refrigerator to an insulated compartment, from which it cools down. The refrigerator has a control system that activates the cooling system if its internal temperature is higher than the threshold set by the manufacturer. This stops the growth of bacteria in the refrigerator.

Each refrigerator zone is designed for a different function. The bottom shelves are perfect for perishables such as fresh meats and vegetables that require the minimum temperature to preserve their texture and taste. Clear shelves allow cool air to circulate around the refrigerator. Store soft cheeses and cured items in a separate deli drawer to create the perfect charcuterie platter.

Refrigerators also feature glass or stainless steel doors to protect the interior and allow for easy cleaning. Certain refrigerators also have door alarms that can be programmed to notify you when the fridge or freezer doors are left open for too long. You can set them up to alert multiple people and in escalating levels depending on your needs. They can even be set to record and send temperature graphs remotely via text message or email.

Many refrigerators come equipped with thermometers however, for those that don't, a freestanding appliance thermometer can be a cheap way to check the temperature of your freezer and fridge. It is essential to check the temperature of the freezer and fridge frequently, particularly in the event of an outage in power or you have manually changed the temperature setting. The ideal temperature for the freezer and refrigerator is 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Capacity for Storage

Refrigerator capacity is an important factor when it comes to choosing the right model to meet your requirements. There are many sizes available, from small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic feet to larger models that can hold more than 26 cubic foot. To determine the size you need, consider your family's eating habits and the number of people in your home. On average, 11 to 13 cubic feet of refrigerator space is enough for two people, while 18 to 22 cubic feet are recommended for three to four people.

Look at the depth of the fridge in addition to the overall space. Some models are shallower than others, allowing them to fit into tight spaces without taking up too much space under the counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, and have a depth that is roughly the similar to the standard front of a kitchen cabinet (though handles may protrude slightly further). They are a great option for those with limited counter space. They can also appear more sleek.

When you are shopping for a new refrigerator, inquire about the level of noise and energy consumption. There are many manufacturers that offer quieter refrigerators suitable for residential use. Other refrigerators have lower electricity consumption than similar models. Check the yellow Energy Guide label on appliances to find out the typical energy consumption for the specific model. Also, test the model's operation by closing and opening the doors.

A majority of modern refrigerators come with a pantry drawer, which is a full-width area with separate temperature controls that can be used for storing a variety of items. These drawers can be used to store party trays as well as wine and other things at a certain temperature. They can be programmed to hold wine, deli foods, and soft drinks, depending on the model.

Energy Efficiency

Refrigerators use a lot of electricity. It is therefore important to choose a energy-efficient refrigerator. The good news is that refrigerators have improved in energy efficiency over time. Motors, insulation, and magnetic door seals have been improved over time, meaning that a modern refrigerator consumes less energy than an older one of the same size. It is possible to cut down on the power consumption of your refrigerator further by buying an energy efficient model. A refrigerator that is Energy Star-rated will use a lot less energy than an equivalent model ten years old or more.

Efficiency in energy is crucial for consumers who have limited access to the grid for electricity. For homes that are not connected to the grid, refrigerators are typically among the most expensive appliances. Their high energy consumption also means that they require large systems of solar home systems that are out of reach for a lot of families earning less than $2 per day. The annual energy consumption of a refrigerator is therefore a crucial aspect in determining if it is affordable for consumers to purchase and maintain (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).

To understand how fridges function it is important to understand the fundamental refrigeration cycle. The refrigerator cools down by pushing a refrigerant liquid through a sealed system. It begins as a liquid, and goes through the compressor, which reduces it to an vapor. The vapor then flows through coils outside of the refrigerator and draws heat out of it. It then cools down before returning to liquid. This process is repeated several times, keeping the food cool while the vapor flows through the coils.

Refrigerators are still among the most expensive appliances that consumers who are not connected to the grid can purchase, [Redirect-Refresh] but improving their energy efficiency can make them more affordable. By cutting down on the amount of energy they use it is possible for a refrigerator to be powered by an enlarge SHS, which will reduce the overall system cost for consumers. Based on the size, style, and features of the refrigerator, the savings on energy will vary. For instance, ice-makers and through-the-door water dispensers can add cost but may significantly increase the refrigerator's energy use which, in turn, increases the SHS required to power it.

Maintenance

The life expectancy of a refrigerator could be greatly improved with regular maintenance and inspection. Examine the condenser, the ice maker, and the defrost drain. Also, check the seals on the door. Cleaning and replacing water filter is also vital. Doing these simple tasks can help prolong the lifespan of your fridge and save you money on energy bills.

The most simple and efficient refrigerator maintenance task is to wash the interior of your refrigerator on a regular basis. This includes throwing out old food and wiping down shelves and crispers, walls and inside the doors of your freezer and refrigerator. This will prevent unpleasant odors as well as reduce the chance of contracting food-borne illnesses. A fridge thermometer is recommended for checking the temperature of your american-style fridge frequently. If your refrigerator is not properly maintained could be subject to temperature fluctuations that could result in food spoilage and an increase in your electricity bill.

The condenser coils of your refrigerator should also be cleaned twice a year. This will get rid of any hair, dirt, grime or other debris that has accumulated. These coils are located on the bottom or rear of your appliance and are basically radiator-like components that help remove heat from your refrigerator. They aren't able to disperse the heat as effectively when they are dirty. Your refrigerator will use more energy to run.

Check your refrigerator's seal which is designed to provide an airtight seal between your refrigerator and the ductwork inside your home. It is crucial to keep the contents of your fridge cold. However, over time, the seal can be worn down by greasy fingerprints and sticky syrups. Wipe your fridge's seal with a damp towel to keep it in good condition.

It is also a good idea to clean the drip tray, which is located usually beneath the compressor unit of the refrigerator. The drip pan is responsible to collect water from the defrost cycle of the refrigerator. It is recommended to clean it regularly to avoid the growth of mold and unpleasant odors.