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Fridges and Freezers
There are a wide variety of fridges and freezers on the market today, so it pays to consider your needs before you start looking, so that you can narrow down what is worth further research, whether on the internet or in person.
Some points to consider:
Maybe one of the most important considerations is how efficient and energy saving your fridge or freezer is designed to be. This is not only good for your pocket, in regard to energy used, but also better for the environment. Energy efficiency is shown by stars (energy star rating)- the more stars, the more efficient. Usually fridges use much less energy than freezers.
How much do you want to pay initially?
Usually, the bigger the unit, the more expensive. Plus the more extra features, or the fancier the finish/style, the more you will pay.
How much space are you going to need in your fridge/freezer?
A family of 4 may need around a 600 litre model. Include in this consideration how much of this will be fresh refrigerated food and how much will be frozen. If you need to fit big items- like tall bottles in the door, or pizza boxes on a shelf- measure the appropriate storage areas within the unit to see if they will fit.
What kind of fridge/freezer do you want?
Do you want one unit- either with a top freezer or a bottom freezer? Would you prefer a single side by side unit? Or a separate fridge and freezer? Would a chest freezer or a vertical freezer better suit your needs or space? Do you only need a little bit of refrigeration storage and therefore would a bar fridge be the most sensible choice?
What dimensions is the area(s) you will place your fridge/freezer?
And therefore, which units would be suitable for this space? If you choose 2 units, will you need them both to fit in this area, or will they have seperate spaces? For appearance sake, would they be better to be a matching set, or won't this matter?
Do you want the ease of frost free?
Do you want reversible doors, in case you move or want to change the position of the unit?
Do you need plenty of deep door storage? What about baskets or crispers? Dairy compartments? Do you want see through drawers/compartments for easy viewing of contents?
Would you prefer wire rack shelving or solid spill catcher shelves? How adjustable are the shelves?
How easy would the unit be to clean? Is the thermostat easy to reach for adjustments?
What colour or finish would suit your decor or preferences?
Do you want extras like cold water or ice dispensers?
Check the length of the warranty. Some brands, or suppliers, provide free extended warranties on certain parts such as the compressor. You can often also pay for extended arranties on the whole unit.
Once you have established just what kind of unit(s) you are looking for, what is a *must* and what you might be willing to compromise on for the sake of another feature, you are well armed to go ahead with further research into what brands and models of fridges and freezers fit your criteria.
The internet is a perfect place to get an initial idea of what might suit your home, and then you can visit some of the large white goods stores to see who offers the best price. Don't be afraid to bargain... see who can make you the best offer! Especially for cash. Do they give discounts for trade-ins? Will they throw in free delivery or a free loan trailer?
A fridge/freezer is a fairly major household purchase, that needs to last for some years, so don't just leap in and buy the first fancy model that seems to do everything... or you might just end up with something that does everything- except what's most important! Think it through carefully in advance, look at what's on offer, and make a good decision based on your individual requirements.
Then you are more likely to end up with a fridge/freezer which you are happy with, for years to come.
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