Chest Freezers For Outbuildings
You can keep extra food items in the freezer of a chest to use throughout the year and reduce trips for groceries. It also makes cooking in bulk more convenient.
Look for models that are specifically designed for this type of setting. Also, choose one that has wire storage baskets to help keep your food items organized.
Size
Most often found in garages and outbuildings,
chest freezers are ideal for those who like to store up bargains that can be frozen. They typically are less expensive than upright freezers and provide plenty of storage (around five bags) for the cost. Currys own-brand model, for instance is a great value with lids that opens more easily than the majority of. It has an A+ rating for energy efficiency, which means it is cost-effective to run.
If you're looking to get more out of your chest freezer, search for models with wire storage baskets that can be hung from the edge. They can allow you to lift everyday items such as chopped vegetables out of the chaos of frozen foods. They are especially helpful if you're freezing lots of meat, since they can be hard to reach when stuffed into the top of a freezer.
Because of their size and footprint, most chest
residential freezers are put in the basement or garage to save kitchen space. However, more manufacturers are creating freezers specifically designed to withstand the unpredictable temperature fluctuations that can occur in the garage or outbuilding. These models are sold as "garage ready" and can withstand temperatures as low as -22degC.
The size of the freezer you buy will depend on the amount of space you have available and your budget. Although there are many excellent freezer deals available but it's crucial to choose one that's right for you and the location you'll use it.
If you're planning to store your freezer in the garage or an outside, consider buying one that has a high-temperature alarm. This feature will alert you if the freezer is in the danger of exceeding its temperature, which could be the case if you fail to close the door after filling it with food or when it accidentally becomes warmer during defrosting. A lock on the freezer can stop unauthorized access. These features might seem insignificant but they can make a big difference over time.
Convenience
A second freezer in your home can help save money on groceries buy more groceries that are on sale, and cook meals in bulk for later use. Despite their larger size chest freezers can be tucked away in small spaces in the garage or outbuilding, and are ideal for those who have little storage space.
Many people are hesitant to purchase chest freezers, fearing that it will be too large and hard to manage or get into. There are a variety of options with user-friendly features available in various sizes. This Northair chest freezer is among the smallest on this list but fits a sizeable amount of food and has an easy-to-open lid and a counterbalanced design to prevent it from closing in the wrong way as you rummage through its contents.
This GE model is another excellent alternative. It can withstand temperatures outside up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, it has the biggest storage capacity of any freezer on this list. The door is large and can be locked, and the interior LED light helps you stay on track when it comes to finding your frozen treats.
Upright freezers look more like refrigerators and are much easier to keep organized than chest freezers However, they may not be as good in handling temperatures outside. Certain models, like this one from Whynter have bins that aid in organization and
chest freezers allow you to alter the storage of your foods to maximize capacity.
Consider a standing fridge with wire baskets that are removable and can be used to move heavier items like bags of frozen vegetables and oven chips out of the way. Basket-equipped freezers are easier to find and can handle external temperatures better than freezers with shelves. In addition, certain brands, like Beko and Russell Hobbs (a Currys own brand) offer freezers that can operate safely down to -15C so they are perfect for cold garage or outbuilding locations. It is important to check the warranty provided by the manufacturer since it might not cover freezers that are stored in unheated areas.
Energy efficiency
The chest freezer is one of the most energy efficient freezers. Its airtight seal helps conserve cold air, which saves energy and cuts back on energy bills. Single-door freezers, on the other side, are more likely to leak air, which causes their compressors to work harder to keep the temperature constant. Many chest freezers also have low-frost technology, which reduces the frequency of defrosting, and also lowers energy costs still further.
A chest freezer will also help you save money by being better insulated than its upright counterparts. This is particularly important in the event that you intend to keep it in a garage or another location that could get warm.
In terms of storage, chest freezers can be just as convenient and accessible as upright models. Remember that you'll need to bend over and reach into the freezer to grab your food items. These appliances are not suitable for those with mobility problems. Also, most chest freezers need to be manually defrosted (you'll need to disconnect the unit, open it and let the ice melt). If this sounds like an inconvenience You can search for models that have wheels or built-in drains.
Freezers are known for using a lot of electricity, so it is always advisable to search for a refrigerator that has lower energy consumption, like chest freezers. There is an annual consumption amount, usually listed in kWh, for most models on their energy labels or product manuals.
When looking for a chest freezer it's important to know the climate class it falls into before you buy. For instance, a fridge that's class SN can hold frozen foods with temperatures of up to 10 degrees Celsius. This makes it a great choice for a garage or outbuilding.
It's worth exploring the many choices available for a chest freezer for your outbuilding. You're sure to find one that suits your needs, regardless of whether you're looking to store ice cream in the summer or store meals in advance for a busy family. A chest freezer is an excellent investment, due to its an efficient layout and energy-efficient design.
Maintenance
Whatever type of freezer you pick it's essential to place it in a space where it is easily accessed. The garage or outbuilding are the ideal locations. But be aware that some chest freezers could suffer damage if exposed to temperatures that are outside of their suggested range.
The good news is that more and more freezer manufacturers have spotted this issue and are working to make their products better suited to garages and outbuildings. Look for models that are "garage optimized." These freezers are constructed with specialized compressors, a thick insulation, and triple-sealed gaskets that help them maintain an optimal internal temperature even in extreme cold or heat. The name of the product will usually include the word "garage-ready" or mention it in the specifications.
Both chest and upright freezers require a bit of maintenance in order to continue functioning properly. If you opt for one that has manual defrost, it will require frequent cleaning of ice in order to prevent the appliance from freezing over. Upright freezers on the other hand, are usually self-defrosting. They also have fewer parts that require maintenance over time.
Freezers should be positioned at least six inches from walls and other appliances to allow for adequate ventilation. Additionally, they require a minimum of an inch space behind them to be cleaned or swept as required.
