Are you looking for a kitchen upgrade or just plain burnt out from freezer burn? If you answered yes to either of these, it might be time to consider a new refrigerator. But how do you know which appliance is right for you? Here at Shore Appliance, Hallock’s, and Morrone Electric, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of how you can choose your kitchen’s coolest companion to fit your space, your style, and your snacks.
Choose Your Style
While many refrigerator styles vary by brand, there are generally six different kinds to choose from– top freezer, bottom freezer, side-by-side, french door, and quad door. Each style has its own benefits and features to fit a variety of kitchen sizes and food storage needs. Below is a chart comparing the different types of refrigerators and some of their specific benefits.
Identify Your Installation
In addition to refrigerator styles, each style comes in a couple different installation options, including freestanding or built-in. With freestanding appliances, you’ll need to have some clearance from counters, walls, and cabinets. With built-ins, the unit is mounted to the adjoining wall and cabinets for a more seamless look.
Decide Your Depth
Once you’ve decided on your preferred style and method of installation, the next step is to figure out how it will fit into your space and fill your storage needs.
Standard refrigerators come in 2 depth sizes: standard depth and counter depth. Standard depth appliances are often larger than counter depth, offering deeper storage options at more affordable prices. Counter depth refrigerators sit flush with cabinets, which provide a more cohesive look, but they are often smaller and more expensive than their standard depth counterparts. Besides that, there aren’t any differences - anything that comes in a standard depth model, can be found in a counter depth (and vice versa!)
Measure Your Space
After choosing the size and look that’s right for you, it’s time to measure your space. When measuring the area for your new refrigerator, it’s important to consider three dimensions– height, width, and depth. Below are some instructions on how to measure these three areas:
Height
- If you have cabinets above your fridge: Measure from the floor to the bottom of the cabinet
- If you don’t have cabinets: Measure from the floor to the ceiling
- For freestanding refrigerators: Leave a ½ inch space between the ceiling or cabinet bottom for proper clearance
Width
- Measure wall-to-counter, cabinet-to-cabinet, or wherever your refrigerator is placed.
- For freestanding refrigerators: Leave a ½ inch of space on both sides for proper clearance
Depth
- For standard depth: Measure from the wall to just past the front of your counters
- For counter depth: Measure from the wall to the end of your counters
- For freestanding refrigerators: Leave 1 inch of room from the wall to the back of the fridge for proper clearance and venting
- Note: Make sure there is enough room in front of the fridge for the drawers and doors to open properly; refrigerator hinges and doors are sometimes higher than the refrigerator cabinet height!
Find Your Features
While we covered the basics above, let’s get a bit more in depth with some other features new refrigerator models have. Many premium models now include smart features like internal windows or knock-to-see panels; no need to open the refrigerator door on a hot summer day to see where you put the juice (which helps save a little bit of energy). What about water and ice? Refrigerator models now have the option for an external dispenser, or internal dispensers - some, believe it or not, even have dual ice makers for those who need ice in every beverage, or those who host many parties. Some refrigerator models now come with a fifth drawer that can alternate between a fridge or a freezer; the fifth drawer is perfect for drinks, snacks, or anything you often go in and out of the fridge for.
Pick Your Finish
Over the years, refrigerator finishes have evolved significantly to offer homeowners a variety of options. Whether you’re trying to match a pre-existing appliance, or looking to upgrade after a kitchen remodel, there’s a finish for everyone! Stainless steel continues to be the most popular choice by consumers, there’s just one drawn back - the fingerprints. Nowadays, manufacturers have started to put out smudge-proof stainless steel that has that same great look, but helps conceal the look of fingerprints. There are also non-stainless finishes that help reduce the number of fingerprints you’re cleaning - like matte black, or smudge-proof black stainless steel. If you’re looking for something brighter (or more traditional) white appliances continue to be highly requested. The choice of finish really depends on personal preference - what’s going to look best in your kitchen?
Give Us a Call
Choosing the right refrigerator doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering the preferred style, dimensions, and features you can find a unit that fits both your space and your life. If you’re still overwhelmed, there’s no reason to be– not with Shore Appliance, Hallock’s, and Morrone Electric's dedicated team to help make these decisions easy! Stop into your local store, or pop online to start a chat with one of the team members to help start your search. Purchasing a new appliance shouldn’t be stressful, let us help!