How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators (sometimes called a fridge) are kitchen appliances that keep food and beverages cold. They are found in offices, homes, hotels and college dorms.
Some refrigerators have sophisticated features such as cameras and sensors. Some have touchscreens that allow you to watch videos, browse recipes, view family calendars and shopping lists, or leave notes for family members.
Temperature Control
The right temperature for refrigerators keeps foods safe for storage which slows down the degradation of many food items due to spoilage. This is especially important for foods like eggs and milk, which can quickly turn rotten when exposed to temperatures that are not ideal but stay stable in the refrigerator. Refrigerators can be used to store pharmaceuticals such as medications or vaccines that lose their efficacy with time. Monitoring systems for refrigerators can help ensure that a medical lab, laboratory or another institution has a cold chain.
A refrigerator's internal thermal insulator keeps its contents cooler than the surrounding air. The heat pump transports warm air from outside the refrigerator into an insulated compartment, where it cools down. The refrigerator also has a controlled system that switches on the cooling system when the internal temperature rises above the pre-set threshold. This prevents bacteria from forming in the refrigerator.
Each of the refrigerator zones is designed to serve a distinct function. The bottom shelves are perfect for perishables like fresh vegetables and meats that require the most low temperature to keep their texture and flavor. Clear shelves allow cool air to circulate throughout the refrigerator. A separate drawer for deli can be used to store soft cheeses and cured meats for the perfect charcuterie platter.
Refrigerators also come with doors made of stainless steel or glass to protect the interior and allow for easy cleaning. Some refrigerators include a door-alarm that can be programmed. It will alert you if the fridge freezer is left open too long. You can set them to notify multiple people and in increments based on your requirements. You can set them up to send temperature graphs by email or text.
Freestanding appliance thermometers are a cheap alternative to the built-in thermometers in most refrigerators. It is essential to check the temperature of the freezer and fridge often, particularly in the event of an electrical failure or you have manually changed the temperature setting. The ideal is that both the fridge and freezer should be set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Capacity for Storage
The capacity of your refrigerator is a key factor when choosing the model that will best suit your needs. There are a variety of sizes to choose from, from small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic feet to large models with a capacity over 26 cubic feet. Take into consideration your family's cooking preferences and the number of people living in your home to figure out which size is best for you. For two people the average of between 11 and 13 cubic foot of refrigerator space is adequate for a household of two. For a family of three, 18 to 22, cubic feet is recommended.
In addition to assessing the space inside consider the depth of your refrigerator. Certain models are deeper than others, allowing them to fit into tight spaces without taking up too much space under the counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, having an overall depth that is the same as a standard kitchen cabinet's front (though handles can protrude a little further). They can be a great choice for kitchens where counter space is at a premium, and they can also look more sleek than traditional refrigerators.
Be sure to inquire about the refrigerator's energy usage and noise level when shopping. There are many manufacturers that provide quieter refrigerators for homes. Others offer refrigerators with less electricity consumption than similar models. You can find the energy usage of a refrigerator by looking at the yellow Energy Guide label. Also, test the model's operation by opening and closing the doors.
The pantry drawer is usually a full width section of the refrigerator that has separate temperature controls. It can be used to store a variety of things. These drawers can be used to store trays for parties wine, other food items and more at a certain temperature. Depending on fridge for sale , these drawers may include pre-programmed settings to store wines and deli meats as well as soft drinks.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators use a lot of electricity. This is why it's important to choose one that is energy efficient. The good news is that refrigerators are becoming more energy efficient over time. Motors, insulation, and magnetic door seals have all improved over time, so a newer fridge will use less power than an older one of the same size. It is possible to reduce the energy consumption of your refrigerator further by buying an energy efficient model. A refrigerator with an Energy Star rating will use much less energy than a model that is at least ten years old.
Efficiency in energy is crucial for consumers with limited access to the grid for electricity. Refrigerators for homes that are off grid are often among the most expensive appliances. Their high energy consumption also implies that they require large systems of solar home systems which aren't affordable for a lot of families earning less than $2 per day. The energy consumption per year of a refrigerator is a key aspect to determine if it's economically feasible for consumers to purchase and operate. (PATH and WHO 2013 ). McCarney et. al., 2012).
To understand how refrigerators function, we start with the basic refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools by pushing liquid refrigerant through a sealed system beginning as a liquid, and then is pushed through a compressor that compresses the liquid into an liquid. This vapor then flows into coils that are located on the outside of the fridge, where it draws heat from the fridge, cooling down before turning back into a liquid. This process is repeated several times, ensuring that the food remains cold while the vapor moves through the coils.
Although refrigerators are among the most expensive appliances available to off-grid consumers, increasing their energy efficiency makes them more affordable. By decreasing the amount of energy they consume, a refrigerator can be powered by less energy and lower overall system costs for consumers. Based on the dimensions, style, and features of the refrigerator, the energy savings will differ. Ice makers and water dispensers that are located through the door, for instance, add cost however they can also increase the energy consumption of the refrigerator, which increases the SHS needed to power it.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspection can greatly improve the life expectancy of your refrigerator. This can be done by inspecting the condenser coils, the ice maker, defrost drain, as well as the gasket seal on the door to ensure it's in good shape. Cleaning and replacing water filter is also vital. These simple maintenance tasks can help prolong the lifespan of your refrigerator and also reduce your energy costs.
Cleaning the inside of your refrigerator regularly is the simplest and most effective way to maintain it. This includes throwing away old food, wiping down shelves and crispers, walls, and the interior of your refrigerator's doors. This will eliminate unpleasant odors and lower the chance of contracting food-borne illnesses. A fridge thermometer is recommended for checking the temperature of your refrigerator regularly. If your refrigerator is not properly maintained may have temperature fluctuations, which could result in food spoilage as well as a higher electric bill.
The condenser coils in your refrigerator are also required to be cleaned at least twice a year. This will get rid of any hair, dirt, grime or other debris that has accumulated. These coils, which are actually radiators that help to remove heat from the refrigerator are located at the bottom or rear of your appliance. If they're dirty, they aren't able to release heat as efficiently and your refrigerator will use more power to run.
Examine the seal of your refrigerator that is designed to create an airtight seal between your fridge and the ductwork in your home. This is vital to ensure that your fridge's contents remain cool But over time, the seal can become worn down from greased fingerprints, sticky syrups, and dripping drinks. To keep the gasket of your refrigerator in good condition, often clean it with a an aqueous cloth.
It is also a good idea to clean the drip tray, which is located generally beneath the compressor unit of the refrigerator. This pan is used to collect the water that is drained from the refrigerator's defrost process. It should be cleaned frequently to prevent the development of mold and unpleasant smells.