How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators are kitchen appliances used to keep food and beverages cold. They're used at home and in offices, hotels, and college dorm rooms.
Some refrigerators have smart features, such as cameras and sensors. Some refrigerators are equipped with touchscreens that let you view videos, search for recipes, browse family calendars and shopping lists or leave notes.
Temperature Control
The ideal temperature for your refrigerator ensures food safety and avoid spoilage. This is particularly important for food items such as eggs and milk, which could quickly turn rotten when exposed to ambient temperatures but remain stable in the refrigerator. Refrigerators are also extensively used to store pharmaceuticals like vaccines and medicines which lose effectiveness with time. Refrigerator monitoring systems are in place to ensure that a medical facility or laboratory keeps the safety of its cold chain.
The internal thermal insulator of a refrigerator keeps its contents cooler than surrounding air. The heat pump moves warm air from the outside of the refrigerator into an insulated compartment, from which it cools to a very low temperature. The refrigerator also has a controlled system that activates the cooling system when the internal temperature rises above a pre-set threshold. This prevents the growth of bacteria inside the refrigerator.
Each refrigerator zone is designed to serve a distinct function. The bottom shelves are ideal to store perishables such as fresh vegetables and meats which require the lowest temperatures to preserve their taste and texture. The shelves should be kept clear to allow cool air to circulate in the refrigerator. A separate deli drawer can be used to store soft cheeses and cured meats to create the perfect charcuterie platter.
Some refrigerators have glass or stainless steel door to safeguard the interior. They also make it easier to clean. Certain refrigerators also have doors that are alarms that can be programmed to notify you when the doors to the freezer or fridge are closed for too long. You can set them up to alert multiple people and in increments based on your needs. You can also set them to send temperature graphs via text or email.
Many refrigerators come equipped with thermometers however for those who don't, a stand-alone appliance thermometer is a cost-effective way to monitor the temperature of your freezer and fridge. It is essential to check the temperature of your freezer and refrigerator frequently, particularly during power outages or if temperature settings are altered manually. Ideally, both the refrigerator and freezer should be set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
Storage Capacity
The capacity of your refrigerator is a crucial factor in deciding on the model that best suits your requirements. There are many sizes to choose from, from small refrigerators that can hold a volume of less than 15 cubic feet, to large models that can hold over 26 cubic feet. To determine the size you require, take into consideration your family's eating habits and the number of people in your home. For two people the average of 11-13 cubic foot of refrigerator space is sufficient for a household of two. For a family of three, 18 to 22 cubic feet is recommended.
Take a look at the depth of the fridge in addition to the overall space. Some models are shallower than others, which allows them to fit into small spaces without taking up too much space
black under counter fridges your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, and have a depth that is roughly the similar to a standard kitchen cabinet front (though handles may protrude slightly more). These are a great choice for homes with limited counter space. They also appear sleeker.
When shopping for a refrigerator, inquire about the level of noise and energy consumption. Many manufacturers offer quieter refrigerators for homes. Other refrigerators have less electricity consumption than similar models. You can find out the average energy consumption of a refrigerator by looking at the yellow Energy Guide label. Also, test a model's operation by closing and opening the doors.
The pantry drawer is typically the largest section of the refrigerator that has separate temperature controls. It can be used to store a variety of things. These drawers can be used to store party trays as well as wine and other things at a particular temperature. Based on the model, these drawers could come with pre-programmed settings for wine as well as deli meats, soft drinks.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators consume a lot energy. This is why it's important to have one that is energy efficient. As time has passed refrigerators have become more energy-efficient. The insulation, motors and magnetic door seals of a newer refrigerator will use less energy than an older fridge similar to its size. It is possible to reduce the refrigerator's electricity consumption even further by buying an energy efficient model. A refrigerator with an Energy Star rating will use less energy than a model that is 10 years old or older.
It is important to consider energy efficiency for consumers with limited access to electricity grids. Refrigerators for homes that are off grid are often among the most expensive appliances. Their high energy consumption also means that they require huge systems of solar home systems which aren't affordable for families earning less than $2 per day. The annual energy usage of a refrigerator is a key aspect to determine if it's economically feasible for consumers to buy and operate. (PATH and WHO 2013, McCarney and. al. 2012).
To understand how refrigerators function, we start with the basic refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools down by pushing a refrigerant liquid through a sealed system. It begins as a liquid, and then goes through the compressor, which makes it compress into a vapour. The vapor then flows through coils that are located on the outside of the fridge where it draws heat from the fridge, then cooling down and turning back to the liquid. This process repeats many times, ensuring that the food remains cold while the vapor flows through the coils.
While refrigerators are among the most expensive appliances for off-grid consumers, enhancing their energy efficiency makes them more affordable. By reducing the amount of energy they consume the refrigerator can be powered by an enlarge SHS, which will reduce overall system costs for
Refridgerator consumers. Energy savings vary depending on the size, style, and features of a refrigerator. For instance, ice makers and through-the-door water dispensers can add cost, but can substantially increase the energy consumption which,
refridgerator in turn, increases the SHS required to power it.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspection can significantly increase the life expectancy of your refrigerator. Check the condenser, ice maker and defrost drain. Also, look for seals on the door. In addition, cleaning and replacing water filters is essential. Doing these simple tasks can help prolong the lifespan of your refrigerator and also reduce your energy costs.
The most simple and efficient refrigerator maintenance task is to wash the interior of your refrigerator frequently. This includes throwing away old food items and wiping down shelves and crispers, walls and inside the doors of your refrigerator and freezer. This will lower the chance of contracting foodborne illness and unpleasant odors. A fridge thermometer is a good option to monitor the temperature of your fridge frequently. Refrigerators that are not maintained are prone to temperature fluctuations that can result in food waste and higher electricity costs.
The condenser coils of your refrigerator should be cleaned at least twice a year.