How to Know Where to Buy a Chest Freezer
A freezer chest can be an essential appliance, whether you are making plans for an emergency, or just want to store the summer ice cream you've made. The best choice for
upright vs. chest freezers your needs involves considering storage capacity, capacity, and energy efficiency, according to Vincent Finazzo of specialty grocer Riverwards Produce.
The goal is to store food in a stable, consistent temperature that requires little maintenance over time. Look for models with simple-to-use controls, adjustable thermostats and lighting indicators for power.
Size
The capacity of a chest freezer is an important aspect to think about. They typically have larger capacities for storage than refrigerator freezers in the standard model and some even provide some extra space which makes them perfect for large families or people who enjoy entertaining. The capacity of chest freezers ranges from 5 cubic feet to 22 cubic foot. Some models have compartments or racks to aid in organizing your frozen food and separate various types of freezers for easy access.
When looking for a brand new freezer, make sure to measure the space in which it will be placed so that you can determine how large or small to purchase. You may choose a small model to complement your fridge freezer, or a larger one for the garage or laundry room.
A good rule of thumb to follow when deciding how big to get is to allow three inches of clearance along the sides and back. This lets you move the freezer into and out of the space without having to move other appliances or bulky furniture.
Certain models come with bright interior lighting, which is helpful when you are sifting through your frozen dinners and bags of ice. Some models have a counterbalanced multi-angle hinge that allows the lid to open at any angle between 45 and 75 degrees, making it easier to get to your supplies.
The energy efficiency of a chest freezer is another factor to consider. If you're looking to save on your energy bills choose ENERGY STAR-certified freezers. These models meet the government's requirements for energy efficiency, and can save you up to $500 in energy costs over the life of the freezer. Other features to think about are the use of rollers to move around as well as power indicator lighting and temperature controls that are external to the freezer. Some freezers have an adjustable basket separator as well as an recessed handle for simple lifting. There are a myriad of options for you, whether you're looking for a basic chest-style freezer, or one that will fit in your garage.
Style
In contrast to a conventional freezer, chest freezers lift open from the top, much like a treasure chest. This is why they are generally larger and shorter than fridge freezers. This makes them a great choice for people who buy in bulk and need to store larger items that aren't able to fit into a standard freezer.
They also tend to be quieter than upright models. They have thick insulation which keeps the cold air from surrounding food and helps it stay frozen longer, even in power outages. This makes them an excellent alternative for those who frequently purchase meats at a reduced price from the butcher, or eat their own food in bulk.
A chest freezer might not be the most used appliance in your kitchen, but it is an excellent addition if you prepare large quantities of food and need to store extras. The freezer is ideal for storing soups, stews or casseroles, as well as other food items that you can freeze for later use. It can also help you keep your pantry full of essentials like cereal, bread and canned vegetables.
Choose a chest-freezer that has removable baskets to make organization easier and also interior lighting that is bright. This will allow you to find what you need faster without having to open and
Upright Vs. Chest Freezers close the lid constantly. Some models feature a keyed locking system and an internal temperature monitor to offer additional security and ease of use.
If you're working on a tight budget, consider shopping for an appliance that has a scratch and dent discount. Many stores offer discounted models with scratches. This could save you up to 15% on a freezer that's sure to come in handy. Make sure you test the freezer before buying it to ensure that it can fit in your garage or basement. Be aware of any doors you will need to open in order to move the freezer. It is crucial to place the freezer away from heat sources such as windows, for safety and proper operation. Freezers in hot locations can also decrease their effectiveness and may cause freezer burn.
Energy Efficiency
You might want to consider the energy efficiency when you are shopping for a new freezer. Freezers that have ENERGY STAR certification use less energy and can save money over the long run. It is also important to gauge the size of your chest freezer to determine its energy efficiency.
Think about whether your freezer can defrost by hand or automatically. Certain freezers require manual defrosting, which can be a hassle if you have to regularly defrost your freezer. Some models have automated defrost features and can save a lot of time.
If you're a busy family, you can use the extra freezer space to store meals and snacks in a freezer that you can heat up when you don't have the time to cook. A chest freezer is an excellent method to get the most out of an abundant crop by freezing fruits and vegetables for later use.
There are a variety of sizes of freezers on the market and it's easy to find the ideal one for your needs. You can purchase a small 5.4 cubic foot chest freezer for your home or opt for the larger 30 cubic foot model to store perishables in your restaurant.
The most reliable chest freezers are durable, providing steady temperatures throughout the freezer and without hot spots. Based on your requirements you may want to consider the addition of additional features like an interior lighting system and storage baskets that can be coordinated to keep your most frequently used ingredients and foods easily accessible. You can also find chest freezers that have labels and dividers that help you keep the track of your belongings and arrange them according to type or season.
Storage
A chest freezer provides lots of space for storage. This type of freezer is ideal for storing large quantities of food, particularly when you have an entire family or prefer to purchase in large quantities. You can use a chest-freezer to store products or ingredients that are not readily available at the local supermarket. This could include specialized meats, imported chees, and unique frozen desserts. These ingredients can simplify cooking and save you money.
The amount of storage space you'll need to meet your freezer's needs is contingent on the frequency and kinds of food items you freeze. For instance, if plan to buy fresh seafood that is in season and then freeze it for future use, you will need more storage space than if you only store frozen leftovers.
Because they are horizontally placed they have a larger storage capacity. They are more difficult to access than upright vs. chest
compact freezers (
http://extension.Unimagdalena.edu.co/extension/lists/contactenos/dispform.aspx?Id=828957) models with shelves and drawers. When looking for a chest-freezer look for models that have interior lighting. This feature can be useful when you intend to store your freezer in an unlit garage or basement. It can also make it easier to locate the necessary items.
If you have children at home, look for a freezer with child safety locks. These security measures are essential since children are able to climb into a
freezer sizes and become trapped which can lead to suffocation or death. Keep track of the items you have in your freezer, and note the expiration dates. This will help you avoid purchasing or storing food that is not in good condition, and reduce waste.