Refrigerators
When choosing a new refrigerator,  it is more appropriate to search by size and style, than brand. However for those who have had success with a specific make, you may want to stick with it and find out all the options available. Below is an overview of what you need to consider before deciding on a regrideratory and then some examples of refrigerator styles available.
Features to Consider - Size
- How big is the model that you currently own? A new refrigerator has to fit in the same spot, unless of course you are remodeling your kitchen.
- What are the dimensions of your cabinets? How far out can the refrigerator stick out without being in the way?
- How much storage space will you be needing? Manufacturers tend to overestimate the amount of usable area by 40 percent.
- For small spaces, look for models that have adequate drawers, pull-out shelving and clear removable bins to get the most out of the limited space and to facilitate cleaning.
- Will there be enough door swing room on either side?
- How many people live in your household? For two people, you'll need around 8-10 cubic feet of space and an extra cubic foot for each additional household member.
- Style
- Do you want your fridge to match other appliances in the kitchen?
- Two items that clash slightly aren't a big problem if they are not right next to each other.
- Beware of using too many different styles as it will make your kitchen look cluttered, but don't be afraid to try a funky-looking fridge if your kitchen is otherwise tame. Cool retro fridges might be a good choice for a bar or game room.
- Stainless steel finishes and front panels to match cabinetry are nice touches, but don't forget about the extra cost.
- Noise and Location
- Do you have an open kitchen?
- If it is close to the living room you will want to find a fairly quiet model.
- Other Features
- Touchpad controls for ice/water dispenser: they should be easy to read and operate for maximum user-friendliness.
- Temperature control should be easy to get to and adjust.
- Adjustable shelves that can be raised or lowered to accommodate items of varying sizes.
- Spill-proof shelving.
- Automatic ice-maker.
Refrigerator Styles
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Top Freezer - Width: 30" and 33" are most common; 10 to 25 cubic feet.
- Frozen goods are at eye-level.
- Economical price.
- Energy efficient.
- No ice/water dispenser.
- Needs lots of space.
- Ample storage room.
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Bottom Freezer - Width: 30", 33" or 38"; 20 to 25 cubic feet.
- Extra freezer space.
- The most-used items are at eye-level.
- Usually no ice/water dispenser, though it is an add-on option with some models.
- Optional 2-door model can fit into smaller spaces.
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French Doors - French Door models usually have a freezer on the bottom with double doors (instead of the standard single door) above.
- Combines the usefulness of a side-by-size with the wide shelves of a bottom-freezer. Brilliant!
- Among refrigerators, this is the "hot new style."
- Slightly less space than some other models, but the wide fridge space combined with easy opening could be especially useful in a small kitchen.
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Side-by-Side - Width: 33" to 36"; 20 to 30 cubic feet inside.
- Smaller freezer side, but lots of shelf space.
- Good for tight spaces.
- Built-in ice and water dispenser.
- Usually more prone to needing repairs.
- Similar design also comes in cabinet-depth models that fit more flush with the surrounding cabinets, however they offer less room. They are a good alternative to the more pricey built-in models
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Built-In - Come as both full-size fridges and half-size, under-the-counter versions.
- Half-size model has same depth (36 or 42 inches).
- Usually come in side-by-side or bottom-freezer models.
- Very sleek and streamlined as to blend in with the cabinetry.
- Most expensive to buy and maintain.
- Less energy efficient.
- Prone to needing repairs.
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Compact - Fits into small spaces.
- Less expensive, but also less storage.
- Limited freezer space.
- No option for an external ice/water dispenser.
- Fun colors and themes such as this retro style can be found at Pastense.com or Elmirastoveworks.com.
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