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Refrigerators: Traditional fridges are tops
Top-freezer and bottom-freezer fridges
generally give you more for your money
than their side-by-side siblings--and
cost less to run.
WHAT'S AVAILABLE
Top-freezer models. Accounting for
almost two-thirds of models sold, these
are generally less expensive to buy and
run-and more space efficient-than
comparably sized side-by-side models.
Width ranges from about 24 to 36 inches.
Nominal, labeled capacity ranges from
about 10 to almost 27 cubic feet.
Side-by-side models. By far the
most fully featured fridges. High, narrow
compartments make finding stray items
easy in front (harder in the back); they
may not hold larger items. Compared
with top- and bottom-freezer models, a
higher proportion of capacity goes to
freezer space. Side-by-sides are typically
30 to 36 inches wide, with nominal capacity
of 19 to 30 cubic feet. They're more
expensive and less space and energy
efficient than similar-sized top-freezer
models.
Bottom-freezer models. A small but
growing part of the market. Fairly wide
refrigerator shelves provide easy access.
Bottom-freezers are a bit pricier than
top-freezers and offer less capacity
(up to 25 cubic feet).
Built-in models. Generally side-by-side
and bottom-freezer models with fewer
standard amenities and less soundproofing
than lower-priced traditional models.
Usually 25 to 26 inches front to back
and taller than regular fridges, they fit
nearly flush with cabinets and counters.
Side-by-side models are available in
42-inch and 48-inch widths (versus the
more typical 36-inch width). Built-in pairs
(for 72 inch opening) are also available.
Built-in-style, or cabinet-depth
models. These freestanding refrigerators
offer the look of a built-in for less.
IMPORTANT FEATURES
Interiors are ever more flexible with
adjustable door bins, shelves, and even
split shelves.
Sliding shelf snuggers secure bottles
and jars. A few models have a wine rack.
Glass shelves are easier to clean than wire
racks. Pull-out freezer shelves or bins give
easier access. An alternative is a bottom
freezer with a sliding drawer. More models
have replaced mechanical temperature
settings with electronic touchpads. A temperature-controlled drawer can be set to
be several degrees cooler than the rest
of the interior, useful for storing meat or
fish. Crispers have controls to maintain
humidity. Most models have an icemaker
in the freezer; a through-the-door ice-
and-water dispenser is common in side-by-side refrigerators. Note: the presence
of an icemaker or a water dispenser tends
to increase the chances of needing repairs.
Step-up features include a variety of
finishes and colors.
How to Choose
Performance differences.
Most refrigerators do the job well and
fairly quietly. Configurations and convenience
features vary considerably, as
does energy efficiency.
Recommendations.
Top-freezer models give you the most
refrigerator for the money. Most built-in
models offer no performance or efficiency
advantages. Replacing an aging refrigerator
may save you in electric bills, since today's
refrigerators are more energy efficient.
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