How to Choose a Refrigerator

When your refrigerator dies or you just want a new look, you are going to need to know how to choose the right refrigerator for you. There are so many options available today that walking into a store unprepared can be overwhelming. So before you ever step foot inside a home improvement store, be sure you have done the proper leg work and know how to choose a refrigerator.

Set a Price

Before you can purchase a refrigerator, you have to know how much you can spend on one. We all have a limit to how much we can spend, so go ahead and set yours now. A new refrigerator is only worth the money if it does not put you in financial burden. So take the time to find out how much refrigerator you can afford. Remember, the price for a small, inexpensive refrigerator is around $350 and goes up from there. So keep that in mind when setting a budget.

Measure

Next, take your tape measure out and getting some important measurements. See how wide all the doorways are between the front door and the kitchen and write those numbers down. See how much room there is between the floor and the upper kitchen cabinet. Also, measure the width and depth of where your new refrigerator will be going. Make sure you write every one of these numbers down. Never assume that an appliance is going to fit, as this can cause a huge headache when it comes time to have your refrigerator installed.

Pick your Size

Once you get to the store, look for a refrigerator that accommodate your family's needs, plus any potential additions to your household. If you only have 2 people in your home right now but expect to see that number grow by 1 or 2 in the next 5 years, then you should probably purchase 25-26 cubic foot refrigerator if space allows. On the other hand, 1 person who does not expect to have another person in the home any time soon should probably only get a 14-15 cubic foot refrigerator. Bigger is only better if it makes since.

Assess your Need

There are several different styles to choose from when you are looking at purchasing a refrigerator and all of these styles will fit different needs. So when you are looking at choosing a new refrigerator, think about what it is that you need from your refrigerator. If you tend to use a lot of refrigerator space and almost no freezer space, then a traditional top mounted freezer is probably best. Need a large amount of freezer space? A side-by-side typically has the most. French door refrigerators with bottom mounted freezers are great for people who need a lot of refrigerator space while still getting a significant size freezer. Keep these things in mind when you are making your choice.

Energy Efficient

It is important to know whether or not a refrigerator you are looking at is energy efficient. Look for the Energy Star logo on the refrigerators you are considering. Energy Star only puts their seal on refrigerators that are among the most energy efficient. However, if you want to go into more detail to ensure you are getting the very most energy efficient refrigerator, then look at the number of kWh that a refrigerator will use in a year. Many stores will have this information listed with the product, so it should be easy to compare.

The Extras

There is a wide range of extra features available on today's refrigerators and so long as you do not go over your budget, you might want to consider indulging in a few. Things like ice makers, in-door water, digital temperature control and extra storage options are all great things to have around. Look at your budget and consider the things you would really like to have. If it is possible, spring for a few of these things to make your life easier down the road.

Choose the Color

Once you find a refrigerator that will fit your needs, you need to choose a color. Though a refrigerator's color does nothing for the function, it does a great deal for the look of your kitchen. If possible, choose stainless steel if you are looking to improve your home's resell appeal. However, if that is not in your budget, you have other options. If you are only replacing your refrigerator, make sure to match the color to your existing appliances. Otherwise, choose the color that you like best for you kitchen. A country kitchen, for example might look best with a white refrigerator. Where as, for a contemporary kitchen, a black refrigerator might fit best.

Get it Installed

Once you have found the right refrigerator for your kitchen, all you have to do is get it installed. If you have a gas powered refrigerator or if you will be needing to hook up water, it is best to have a professional install it. Since most retailers offer free delivery, installation and haul-away, this is not a financial burden. Simply select a day for your refrigerator to be delivered and sit back and enjoy your new refrigerator. You know you have done the best job possible choosing your new appliance.