5 Helpful Tips for Finding Your Perfect Refrigerator

by Lauren Busser Direct from the Designers™’ Editorial Director

Keeping your food fresh is a prime concern and that’s why when you start shopping for a refrigerator you'll want to make sure to get one that truly suits your needs and that you'll love for years to come. With so many styles, configurations, models and sizes on the market it is hard to know where to begin when it comes to buying a new refrigerator, so we have compiled a few tips that will help you to narrow your search and avoid frustration down the line.

Measure Carefully

While considering how much storage you need is important, you also have to remember that your refrigerator has to fit into your kitchen. The number one reason that a fridge is returned upon purchase is because it doesn’t fit. So take measurements of the height and width of your opening and take it with you when you go shopping. It is also a good idea to measure your doorways too to make sure that delivery of your new fridge goes smoothly.

Storage is Key

One of the first steps in finding your perfect refrigerator is deciding how much storage you need. The average size fridge for a family of four is between 18 and 25 cubic feet, but a large family should think about an even bigger size fridge or possibly more than one. On the other hand, a couple just starting out might find that an 18 cubic foot model is ideal. However, lifestyle also factors into size determinations. If you will be entertaining often, with elaborate dinners or plan to start a family immediately then a larger refrigerator is often a good investment. But if your family eats out a lot, a smaller refrigerator with storage for the basics may work out just just fine.

Select Your Configuration

When you go shopping for a fridge you will see that there are many styles and configurations available and that each has its own pros and cons. This is another decision where your measurements will come in handy. Taking a moment to think about the refrigerator's placement will also help you decide what style will work best. Sometimes the narrower doors of a side-by-side works better with a kitchen island present. Or maybe sidewalls prevent you from opening a French door refrigerator easily.

Pick Your Features

Like many other kitchen appliances, refrigeration has been rethought and reinvented as well. The obvious features include shelves, crisper drawers and door compartments but if you want a refrigerator with a bit more luxury, manufacturers are offering a wide variety of features including icemakers, water dispensers, and adjustable, spill-proof shelving. There are even smart refrigerators on the market now that will help you keep track of what is and isn’t in your fridge.

Consider Refrigeration Elsewhere

The most obvious place to put a refrigerator is your main kitchen but if you are building an outdoor kitchen or a man cave in your new home, you might want to consider other places that a refrigerator would be useful. Many companies offer compact, undercounter refrigeration and beverage center units that make it easy to keep a cold drink in reach. These setups are perfect for a man cave, butler’s pantry or even set into your kitchen island for extra drink storage.

There is no doubt that food preservation should be a prime concern in your new home. Whether you are renovating your kitchen or you are building a new home, the technology and energy efficient refrigeration options available today are sure to please.