Refrigerator Buying Guide

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Whether you're replacing a refrigerator that's not working anymore or buying a new one as part of a complete kitchen renovation, there are several things you need to consider before purchasing. These 5 tips will help you get the best refrigerator for your money.

1. Style

There are several styles of refrigerator:

• Freezer-on-top


• Freezer-on-bottom


• Side-by-side


• French door

Freezer on top models are what most people traditionally think of when looking at new fridges. Freezer on bottom models are basically the reverse - the freezer is in a pull out drawer underneath the refrigerator compartment.

Side by side refrigerators have two full-length doors, one for the freezer and one for the fridge. And French door models are a kind of hybrid between side by side and freezer on bottom. They have a pull-out freezer drawer underneath the refrigerator which has two side-by-side doors.

2. Brand

There are various brands that most people will be familiar with, such as Maytag, Kenmore, Amana and Frigidaire. There are also some lesser known brands, particularly in the higher end of the market, such as Sub Zero.

Some people have a preference for a particular brand, but if you don't the best choice is to research each of them for reliability and service quality in places such as Consumer Reports and other review websites.

3. Size

There are two measurements that you'll have to deal with as far as size goes - the internal capacity and the physical size of the fridge.

If you're replacing an existing refrigerator, the physical size will be important since you'll have to get something that fits into the space you have. If you're remodeling your kitchen, you have a bit more freedom here since you can account for the size of the refrigerator when you plan your cabinetry.

The internal capacity is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.) and can vary, even in refrigerators of the same physical size. Extras like ice makers and water filters can also take away from the internal capacity.

4. Extra Features

The two most common extras are ice makers and water filters. These are most common on side-by-side and French door models, but you can find them on other styles sometimes as well.

These extras can be convenient but they add to the cost of the refrigerator and they often take away some of the internal space, so consider whether you really need them or not.

5. Warranty

Warranties vary from one brand to another, but it's an important thing to consider. When you buy a refrigerator, or any major appliance, it's a purchase that you would expect to last for years. Having a good warranty can help meet that expectation.

When you're doing your brand research, take note of the warranties that go along with each of them. Find out how easy it is to deal with the company as well, since having a warranty is of little value if the company makes it practically impossible to get service done.