What to Look for When Buying a Refrigerator

Top-Freezer Refrigerators

• Top-freezer models are great for maximizing fresh food storage.
• About one-third of the unit is dedicated to the freezer, leaving plenty of space for refrigeration.
• Classic and practical, some versions feature reversible doors for left- or right-hand opening.

Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators

• Ideal if you access fresh food more often than frozen items.
• With the freezer located at the bottom—often as a pull-out drawer—refrigerated items stay at eye level, reducing the need to bend down.
• This setup helps with organization, offering distinct zones for fruits, vegetables, ready-to-eat meals, or snacks.

French-Door Refrigerators

• Featuring two side-by-side doors for the refrigerator and a bottom freezer, this configuration offers generous storage and a modern look.
• You can open just one fridge door at a time, minimizing cold air loss.
• Narrower doors require less clearance, giving you more freedom to move around your kitchen.

Side-by-Side Refrigerators

• Vertically split, these models offer refrigeration on one side and freezing on the other.
• A good option if you need plenty of freezer space without adding a separate unit.
• Both compartments are easy to access and let you see everything at a glance.

Freezerless Refrigerators

• With no freezer section, these units maximize refrigeration capacity.
• Perfect for professional kitchens or households that already have a standalone freezer.
• Depending on the model, features may include temperature-controlled meat or fish drawers and humidity-regulated bins for produce.

Compact Refrigerators

• Designed for small spaces, compact models fit neatly under a counter or in a discreet corner.
• Great for storing drinks and everyday essentials in a finished basement, bar area, or as a secondary fridge.
• Some units even include a small freezer compartment at the top.

Built-In Water Dispenser: Ice and Water at Your Fingertips

An integrated water dispenser gives you easy access to fresh water—and ice, depending on the model. A perfect feature for families or weekend dinners with guests.

Humidity Control: Keep Produce Fresh Longer

Effective humidity control helps maintain freshness by limiting bacteria and odors. Crisper drawers with independent humidity settings are especially useful for extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.

Temperature-Controlled Zones: Tailored Preservation

Some refrigerator compartments can be set to specific temperatures, ideal for preserving different food types. This ensures longer-lasting freshness—whether for meat, dairy products, or other perishables.

Deli and Cheese Drawer: Ready for Entertaining

A dedicated deli and cheese drawer keeps these delicate items at just the right temperature, maintaining freshness and preventing odors from mixing. It's the perfect feature for weekend gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Adjustable-Temperature Cooling Drawer

This built-in drawer allows you to store wine bottles, soft drinks, or fresh produce at the ideal temperature. You can adjust the settings based on your needs—whether keeping vegetables crisp or drinks refreshingly cool.

Adjustable Shelves and Door Bins: Flexible Storage

Adjustable shelves and door bins offer maximum flexibility to help you organize and store your food. Some models let you customize the interior layout to fit tall pitchers or adjust shelf height to accommodate large platters.

Smart Refrigerator: Remote Access and Monitoring

A connected refrigerator can be controlled via a mobile app. Receive alerts for maintenance and temperature changes, and track your energy usage in real time.

Style and Design: From Retro Charm to Modern Aesthetics

Today’s refrigerators are more than just appliances—they’re part of your kitchen’s look. If you love a retro vibe, a vintage refrigerator with bold colors and rounded edges adds a nostalgic touch to your space.