How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators are kitchen appliances that are used to keep food and drinks cold. They are commonly used in homes and in hotels, offices and college dorm rooms.
Some refrigerators have smart features, including sensors and cameras. Certain refrigerators come with touchscreens that let you view videos or search for recipes, browse family calendars and shopping lists or leave notes.
Temperature Control
The proper temperature in the refrigerator keeps foods safe for storage which slows down the degradation of many food items due to spoilage. This is particularly important for food items such as eggs and milk, which could quickly rot when exposed to temperatures that are not ideal but stay stable in the refrigerator. Refrigerators are also used to store pharmaceutical products such as vaccines and drugs which lose effectiveness over time. Refrigerator monitoring systems are in place to help ensure the medical facility or laboratory keeps a safe cold chain.
The thermal insulator inside a refrigerator keeps its contents cooler than surrounding air. The heat pump is used to move warm air from outside the refrigerator to an insulated compartment, where it cools to a very low temperature. The refrigerator also has a control system that turns on the cooling system when the internal temperature is above the pre-set threshold. This prevents bacteria from growing within the refrigerator.
Each zone of the fridge is designed to serve a particular function. The lower shelves are perfect for storing perishables like fresh meats and vegetables that require the minimum temperatures to preserve their taste and texture. Clear shelves allow cool air to circulate throughout the refrigerator. Keep soft cheeses and cured items in a separate drawer for deli to create the perfect charcuterie platter.
Refrigerators also feature doors made of stainless steel or glass to protect the interior and facilitate cleaning. Some refrigerators come with a door alarm that can be programmed. It will notify you if the fridge or freezer is left open for too long. They can be programmed to notify multiple people in escalating tiers based on your requirements. You can also set them to send temperature graphs by text or email.
The majority of refrigerators come with thermometers however, for those that don't, a freestanding appliance thermometer is a cost-effective way to check the fridge and freezer temperature. It is important to monitor the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator often, especially during power outages or if temperature settings are manually adjusted. The ideal temperature for both the refrigerator and freezer is 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Capacity for Storage
The capacity of the refrigerator is a crucial factor when it comes to choosing the right model for your requirements. There are many sizes available, from small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic feet to large models that have a capacity of more than 26 cubic feet. To determine which size you require, think about your family's eating habits and the number of people who live in your home. On average, 11-13 cubic feet of refrigerator space is enough for two people, whereas 18 to 22 cubic feet are recommended for three to four persons.
In addition to looking at the total interior space, look at the depth of your refrigerator. Certain models are more deep than others, which allows them to fit in tight spaces and not take up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option. Their depth is similar to the depth of a typical kitchen cabinet, but the handles may extend a little more. They can be a great choice for homes where counter space is a problem and also look more sleek than traditional refrigerators.
Ask about the energy consumption of the refrigerator and the level of noise when you are shopping. There are many manufacturers that offer quieter models for residential use, and others offer refrigerators that use less electricity than similar models. You can determine the average energy consumption of a refrigerator by looking at the yellow Energy Guide label. Test the appliance by opening and closing its doors.
Most modern refrigerators include a pantry drawer, which is a full-width area with separate temperature controls that can be used to store various things. These drawers are ideal for storing party trays as well as wine, as they permit you to keep them at certain temperatures. These drawers can be programmed to store wine or deli food items as well as soft drinks, depending on the model.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators consume a lot of electricity. Therefore, it is crucial to select a refrigerator that is energy efficient. The good news is that refrigerators have become more energy efficient over time. The insulation, motors, and magnetic door seals of a modern refrigerator will use less energy than a refrigerator that is similar in size. It is possible to cut down on the energy consumption of your refrigerator further by purchasing a highly energy efficient model. A refrigerator that is Energy Star certified will consume much less energy than an equivalent model ten years old or more.
Energy efficiency is especially important for consumers with limited access to electricity grids. Refrigerators are often one of the most expensive appliances for homes that are not connected to the grid, and their large energy consumption means they require large solar home systems (SHS) which aren't affordable for many families making less than $2 a day. A refrigerator's annual energy consumption is therefore an important factor in determining whether it is economical for consumers to purchase and operate (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).
To understand how fridges function first, we must understand the fundamental refrigeration cycle. The refrigerator cools down by pushing a refrigerant fluid through a sealed system. It starts out as a fluid, then goes through the compressor, which compresses it to form the form of a vapor. The vapor then flows through coils outside of the refrigerator, and draws heat from it. It then cools, and turns back to liquid. This process is repeated repeatedly, keeping food cold as the vapor flows through the coils.
Refrigerators are still among the most expensive items that consumers who live off grid can buy but enhancing their energy efficiency will make them more affordable. A refrigerator that is powered by a smaller SHS could be powered with less energy. This will reduce the total system cost. Based on the size, style and features of the refrigerator, the savings on energy will differ. For example, ice-makers and through-the-door water dispensers increase cost, but can significantly increase the refrigerator's energy consumption and, in turn, increase the amount of SHS needed to power it.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspection can greatly improve the life expectancy of your refrigerator. Examine the condenser, ice maker and defrost drain. Also, make sure you check the seals on the door. Cleaning and changing water filters is also important. These easy maintenance tasks will help you prolong the life of your refrigerator and also save money on your energy costs.
Cleaning the interior of your fridge on a regular basis is the most efficient and effective way to maintain it. This means throwing away old food items, cleaning shelves and crispers, walls and inside of your refrigerator's doors. This will help prevent unpleasant odors and lower the chance of contracting food-borne illnesses. A fridge thermometer is recommended to check the temperature of your fridge regularly. A fridge that is not properly maintained could experience temperature fluctuations, which could result in food spoilage and an increase in your cost of electricity.
The condenser coils inside your refrigerator should be cleaned at least every two years. This will get rid of any hair, dirt, grime or other debris that has accumulated. These coils are located on the bottom or rear of your appliance. They're essentially radiator-like parts that help remove heat from your refrigerator. These coils aren't able to release heat as efficiently when they are dirty. Your refrigerator will use more energy to run.
Check your refrigerator's seal which is designed to provide an airtight seal between the fridge and the ductwork inside your home. This is crucial to ensure that your fridge's contents remain cool, but over time the seal can become worn down from greased fingerprints, sticky syrups, and dripping beverages. To keep buy fridge uk in good working order, frequently clean it with a damp cloth.
It is also a good idea, to clean the drip tray, which is generally under the compressor unit of the refrigerator. This pan is used for collecting the water from the refrigerator's defrost cycle. It is recommended to clean it frequently to prevent the growth of mold and unpleasant odors.