Refrigerator buying guide

A refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in your home. It’s a huge investment that could last you more than 10 years, so you’ll want to weigh your options carefully before making a purchase.

Compare some of the best refrigerators

Name	Avg. price (USD)	Configuration	Capacity (cubic feet)	Dispenser?	Dimensions (inches)	Purchase
Whirlpool WRF535SMHZ	$1,620	French door	25.2	No	35.625 W x 70.123 H x 35.5 D	Buy now
GE GNE25JMKES	$1,500	French door	24.8	No	33 W x 69.875 H x 37.5 D	Buy now
LG LTCS20120S	$800	Top mount	20	No	29.75 W x 66.125 H x 33.125 D	Buy now
Whirlpool WRX735SDHZ	$2,250	French door/four door	25	Yes	35.63 W x 68.63 H x 34.75 D	Buy now
GE GSS25GSHSS	$1,100	Side by side	25.3	Yes	35.75 W x 69.5 H x 35.25 D	Buy now
	$1,300	Bottom mount	33	No	32.75 W x 69.875 H x 34.875 D	Buy now
Samsung RT18M6215SR	$750	Top mount	17.6	No	28.75 W x 66.75 H x 31.875 D	Buy now
Samsung RF22N9781SG	$3,600	Four door	22	Yes	35.75 W x 71.875 H x 28.875 D	Buy now

Fridge types

Refrigerators come in a variety of setups, so consider your food-storage and size needs along with your budget when finding the best fit.

How to compare fridges

A refrigerator can cost you anywhere from under $500 to over $5,000, depending on the brand, model, volume and features.

Here are some other key features to consider:

• • Size.
    Smaller fridges are typically less energy-efficient and will cost you more in the long run. If uncertain, opt for a larger fridge. Or, if you have a small kitchen, choose a fridge with adjustable shelving to optimize your storage space.
  • Space clearance.
    Allow for a minimum space of two inches on all sides, plus the top and rear of your fridge so there’s room for heat from the motor to escape. Without the space, your fridge will have to work harder to keep cool and cost you more.Check the fridge manufacturer’s recommended height and width clearances. Also, make sure that your fridge can fit through your front door and any hallways.
  • Door hinge.
    Check whether the door hinge position is on the left or the right of the fridge and whether it’s reversible. If your fridge is next to a wall, the hinge should probably be on the opposite side or reversible.
  • Finish type.
    There are five main finish types to choose from: stainless steel, white, black, retro and glass.

  Finish type	Pros	Cons
  Slate	Latest finish option Smudge proof and fingerprint resistant	May be more expensive
  Stainless steel	Professional, neat look High-end models have an entirely flat front, instead of a fridge door’s typically curved design	Fingerprints, marks and smudges tend to show up Costs more
  White	Easier to clean Cheaper Fingerprints won’t be visible on this finish Classic design	Not as trendy
  Black	Modern design with charcoal and dark finishes available Fingerprints won’t show	Can make your kitchen look darker
  Bright colors and retro	Bold, vintage design Gaining popularity as a statement piece	The trend may pass quickly
  Glass	Modern aesthetic appeal Fingerprints don’t show up as much as stainless steel Has discrete controls, which are only visible when in use	Not a magnetic surface May scratch more easily Typically costs more

  • Energy star rating.
    The number of stars labelled on your fridge tells you how energy-efficient it is. Five stars means the most savings. Although larger appliances use more energy overall, the star rating considers the appliance’s relative energy efficiency.
  • Energy consumption.
    You can calculate your fridge’s annual energy use with the following equation: daily energy consumption figure (kilowatt hours) x 365. Wattage isn’t typically given in kilowatt hours, so you may have to first divide your daily energy consumption by 1,000.

  Additional features

  Here are some additional features to think about:

  • Noise level

    Fridges typically run at around 42 decibels, which is the level of quiet conversation and normally shouldn’t be a problem. For those who live in studios or sleep close to the kitchen, you may want to consider a quiet fridge to minimize any noise disruption.

  • Smart features

    For hi-tech lovers who can pay more, these additional features can be handy and help you to be more environmentally friendly.

    • Wi-Fi and app connectivity, touchscreens and built-in speakers. Check the insides of your fridge remotely and receive expiry alerts on your phone, prompts to reorder groceries and even recipe suggestions.
    • Communication. Receive instant notifications when you need to replace the water filter or there’s a power outage, and get help when a component isn’t functioning properly.
    • Energy consumption tracker. For the environmentally conscious, a smart fridge can help you monitor your energy usage and adjust temperature controls when you’re out.

  • Eco-friendly

    For those who can’t afford a smart fridge, you can still save energy with other features, including sensors that detect when the door isn’t closed properly and in-door compartments and sliding panels that let you access common ingredients without opening the entire fridge.

  • Lighting

    Opt for a model with LED lighting, which uses less energy and produces less heat, reducing the chance of temperature fluctuation.

  • Temperature control

    To ensure your groceries last longer and food spoilage is minimized, look for a model that minimizes temperature fluctuation, maintains a uniform temperature throughout the fridge and adjusts for seasonal temperature changes. Two separate controls are ideal so you can adjust the fridge and freezer separately.

    Some fridges include a 24-hour memory that can automatically cool it prior to heavy use, regulate defrosting to avoid freezer burn and warn you when the fridge door is left open.

  Water and ice dispenser

  Dispensers may require a tap connection that adds to plumbing installation costs or may need replacement water filters.

  Air deodorizers

  Fridges with air deodorizers have active carbon filters that cleanse unpleasant smells, keeping items hygienic. For extra cleanliness, some may include antibacterial agents to stop bacteria and mold growth.

  Child-proof

  Child-proof settings for water and ice dispensers, a secured medicine compartment and temperature controls with a child lock can help keep your family safe.

  Warranty

  Most fridges have a two-year warranty, with extended warranties available.

  Adjustable shelving

  Pick a model with shelves that are easy to remove for quick cleaning and replacement. Some fridges include raised lips to prevent spilled liquids from leaking throughout the entire fridge.

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  Bottom line

  Refrigerators are big purchases, so doing a little research can go a long way towards making sure you get all the features you want at a price you can afford.

  How did we choose these products?

  To choose our list of the best refrigerators, we conducted online research to compare various brands, configurations, sizes, prices and overall features. We also considered third-party product reviews.

  Frequently asked questions

  • How long is a refrigerator supposed to last?

    Most refrigerators last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on the brand, model and how well it is maintained.

  • When is the best time to buy a refrigerator?

    Refrigerators are often marked down considerably for Memorial Day, Labor Day and Black Friday, making these great times to shop for a new appliance. You might also be able to score a deal at the end of the month, when stores are looking to meet sales quotas.

  • How do I dispose of my old fridge?

    When you purchase a new fridge, some retailers may offer to remove your old fridge for you. Alternatively, if it’s still in working condition, you may be able to sell it secondhand. If it’s not functioning anymore, you could take it to scrap yard and get a few extra bucks.