Having a refrigerator at home or in the office is essential in modern life. It gives us easy access to food and drinks and keeps our perishables fresh for long enough. Refrigerators are a viable way to save money by reducing food waste. Also, it helps us eat healthier meals throughout the week. They also offer convenience and flexibility when entertaining guests or preparing larger meals ahead of time. The advantages of having a fridge are vast, making them an invaluable asset in any household or workplace.
But how do you buy one? There are numerous makes and models in the market, making the choices overwhelming. Various features, sizes, and prices matter when choosing a fridge for your home or office. What is new in 2023? What should you look out for in your new refrigerator?
Smart Features
Who wants to adjust temperatures or check up on food items manually? Smart fridges have come a long way in the last few years, with advanced features that make them more efficient and user-friendly. The knock knock fridge allows you to see the inside without opening the doors. You only need to knock twice on the door, and a camera will display the interior. The feature helps you save time and reduces energy loss from air leakage.
Some models can connect to your Smart Home hub to make your life easier. You can monitor and control the fridge settings directly from your phone or voice assistant. For instance, Samsung SmartThings helps you remotely adjust your fridge’s temperature and receive real-time alerts if something is not working adequately.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency should be one of the top features to consider when shopping for a refrigerator in 2023. They are energy-intensive appliances that can account for up to 15% of your total electricity consumption. With rising energy costs, you must choose a model that is as efficient as possible and will save you money in the long run.
To identify an energy-efficient fridge, look out for Energy Star-certified models, which must meet specific criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These fridges use at least 10 percent less electricity than standard models, making them more economical and environmentally friendly. Additionally, some refrigerators have extra features, such as smart sensors or temperature settings, that allow you to customize cooling levels while saving on power consumption.
Also, compare different models and their respective running costs using online calculators or tools provided by retailers or manufacturers before choosing one. Ultimately, selecting an energy-efficient refrigerator will reduce your carbon footprint while helping you save money on utility bills.
3. Size and Capacity
The external dimensions of the refrigerator you buy should fit your available space, while its internal capacity must accommodate your storage needs. Large fridges typically cost more than smaller models, so choose one that meets all your requirements.
Typically, the measurements are in cubic feet, which refer to the total volume of space inside the fridge. The capacity also varies based on what type of refrigerator you choose – a single-door model may have around 15 cubic feet, while a side-by-side one could be up to 25 cubic feet.
4. User Reviews
Marketers can try anything to convince you that a particular model is outstanding. But consumer reviews are the best source of information and can help you avoid making costly mistakes when buying a fridge. Maybe one caveat here is when buying a very new model, where customer reviews might not be readily available.
Reviews from multiple sources, such as retailers, manufacturers’ websites, blogs, and forums, can help you determine whether a product is worth the price. Also, check their social media pages, Google My Business profiles, and Yelp. Independent review sites like Consumer Reports are also essential.
5. Warranty Coverage
A refrigerator is a long-term investment. You will need it for many decades ahead. Also, it costs a significant amount. For those reasons, you would not want something that will fail in a few months or years after purchase. Check the warranty coverage to ensure you get a fridge that will serve you for a long time. The warranty also assures you of the quality and performance of the unit.
Most manufacturers offer warranties that cover repairs, replacements, or refunds for a specific period. A typical warranty may carry coverage of 1-2 years for parts and labor and five to ten years for the compressor. Go through the policy carefully before purchasing to understand what it includes.
6. Budget and Financing
Different models come with different prices. Consider your budget and look for fridges within your price range. You can find affordable options if you are not looking for something too fancy. Also, you do not have to pay for the refrigerator at once. Some retailers offer financing options that allow you to pay in installments spread over some time. Compare offers from various outlets or manufacturers to get the best deal.
Summing Up
Fridges are essential accessories in the kitchen and will remain so for the foreseeable future. Consider these factors to make an informed decision when buying one and choose a model that meets your needs and budget. Do not forget to check warranties, ratings, and reviews before settling on your choice.
