How to choose a refrigerator

One important parameter is size. Before buying, you must have a clear idea of where the device will be located. The average dimensions are as follows: height is from 140 to 205 cm, depth is about 60 cm, and width is 60-70 cm. If we are talking about single-chamber devices with a freezer compartment, then they usually are no higher than 130 cm, with a depth equal to 50- 60 cm and the same width.

Dimensions determine the working volume of refrigeration equipment: the larger the first, the more capacious it will be. When studying the technical characteristics of the device, you can see two indicators - the total and useful volumes. The actual capacity is close to the usable volume. The smallest volume in single-chamber units (from 80 to 250 liters). In two-chamber models, the indicator can reach up to 350 liters. Multi-chamber and Side-by-Side units are suitable for large apartments and houses, their volume can reach up to 700 liters.

The working volume is the sum of the volumes of the freezing and refrigerating compartments. Therefore, under current practice, make large stocks for several weeks, for example, “completely” freeze, it is better to take models with a volume of this compartment equal to 100-150 liters.

If you prefer fresh food, the emphasis should be on the refrigerator compartment. If the family consists of 2-3 people, then a working volume of 300 liters will be quite enough. A larger family will need a more capacious device, provided that the area of the kitchen or other premises allows.

How to consider the number and location of cameras

If the freezer is on top, then its capacity will be a maximum of 200 liters, if it is below, then the indicator can be 300 liters. Equal in size devices have significant differences in capacity. Boxes may be present in the cells themselves, which allows for separate storage of meat and vegetables. In Side-by-Side models, the freezer compartment is located on the side, which is very convenient in terms of use (no need to bend or reach up).

In addition, the working volume of the chamber in such a refrigerator can be equal to 500 liters.

Important elements inside the camera

The number of shelves and the material from which they are made depends on the particular model. On average, equipment is equipped with 3-5 shelves. Lattice shelves made of metal are installed in budget models. They are not able to keep spilled liquids from falling onto lower shelves, but do not create obstacles to air circulation.

Modern units are equipped with glass shelves, which have increased strength. When buying, you should pay attention to the presence of fans or multi-threaded cooling, since the glass shelf will create a barrier to the even distribution of cold air.

Doors are also equipped with special "balconies" for storing various trifles. In premium models, they are made of metal, but plastic elements are more common.

Another important aspect of the interior of the refrigerator is the presence of an antibacterial coating and filter. Silver ions cover the walls of the chamber, creating additional protection. However, regular cleaning can solve the problem of cleanliness without it. The carbon filter allows you to absorb unpleasant odors.

The qualities and properties of work that you need to consider when buying

Climate class

There are several classes of refrigeration equipment, depending on the conditions in which it will be operated:

N - can work at a temperature from 16 to 32 ° C. Used in homes and apartments.
SN - the lower limit is 10 ° C. Also suitable for basements and verandas.
ST - the temperature range is from 18 to 38 ° C. Ideal for hot regions.
T - the upper limit is 43 ° C. Suitable for extremely hot countries or for operation in small areas with direct sunlight.

This parameter is important in case of breakage. If a particular class will be operated in inappropriate conditions, you should not count on warranty repairs.

Type of defrost

Modern refrigerators have a drip defrosting system or No Frost system. The essence of the first is that water flows down the back wall through a drainage hole into a special sump located above the compressor. The No Frost system assumes air circulation in the chambers, the evaporator tubes and walls are not covered with hoarfrost due to the built-in electric heating elements. Despite the absence of the need for defrosting, such equipment should be washed at least once a year.

The inscription Full No Frost means that both chambers (freezer and refrigerator) are equipped with a system that does not require defrosting. It is very convenient, but has characteristic drawbacks: additional noise from the fans and dehydration of products during improper storage.

Type, quantity and noise level of compressors

Most household appliances are equipped with one compressor. Models with two engines allow you to adjust the temperature regime for each compartment. The compressors themselves can be linear or inverter types. The first work on the principle of on / off. The second function constantly, but with different power indicators. Inverter make less noise, have a longer service life, but require protection against voltage surges.

Thus, the type and number of compressors determine the noise level of the entire unit. Normal noise is 40 dB.

Energy efficiency

Given the fact that the refrigerator is constantly working, the issue of choosing a specific device needs to be approached thoroughly. It’s worth taking the most economical options at sight. The energy class is indicated in Latin letters, the most economical is the model labeled A (it is possible that there will be one or more + signs next to it). When manufacturing, the manufacturer considers how much a particular unit can consume in principle. After that, measurements of real consumption are carried out. If it is slightly more than half of the nominal value, then we are faced with class A, 75% - class B, etc.

Energy class is an important indicator. when choosing a high-quality model, however, specific figures for energy consumption can be found by looking at the technical data sheet. It will indicate the annual number of kilowatt hours. If you multiply this value by the cost of one kilowatt per hour in a particular region, you can find out the approximate costs of using the refrigerator.

Additional functions

In addition to the additional parameters indicated above (antibacterial coating and carbon filter), the following should be highlighted:

Door open indicator. The system will notify the owner of a loose fit or open condition with an appropriate signal.
Standalone cold preservation. When the power is cut off, the refrigerator is able to maintain the freshness of products for a long time.
Superfreeze. Allows for a short time to significantly reduce the temperature in the freezer (to -28 ° C).
A device for producing ice. An automatic device that creates ice cubes.
Vacation Allows the freezer to work in normal mode, and the refrigerator compartment in economy mode, with minimal cooling.

Appearance of the refrigerator and its compatibility with the design of the kitchen

Another important selection criterion is the harmonious combination of form and color scheme of the refrigeration unit with the interior of the kitchen. Today you can find equipment in almost any color, and with any finish - imitation of metal or wood. A number of manufacturers offer doused glass refrigerators. There are no fingerprints on the latter; it retains its aesthetic appearance for a long time.

Overview of manufacturers and brands

First, we present an overview of the three leaders among inexpensive refrigerators:

BEKO CN 327120 - volumetric refrigeration equipment (usable capacity 265 l) with No Frost system and a protective coating of the walls. Among the minuses note the build quality, the protruding capacitor grate, which makes it difficult to maximize the tight fit to the wall.
Liebherr CU 2311 - a model that has two cameras and is characterized by almost silent operation and stylish appearance. It has an average volume, the freezer requires periodic defrosting. Standalone cold preservation is possible up to 25 hours.
BEKO CS 331020 - a high-quality assembled unit of compact dimensions and a total volume of 264 liters. Energy class A. It is possible to outweigh the door, the walls have an antibacterial coating.

Now models in the expensive segment:

LG GA-B489 YEQZ - equipment with high demand and energy class A ++. Warranty is 10 years. Useful volume - 360 l, there is an LCD screen. A minus can be noisy work.
BOSCH KGN39SB10 - the high price of the German brand is associated with a huge variety of color solutions. Stand-alone mode (up to 18 hours) and a number of other useful functions make this model one of the leaders in the market.
LIEBHERR SBS 7212 - one of the largest in terms of capacity refrigerator (651 liters). Able to quickly freeze food, No Frost system is installed only for the freezer.

Useful tips for choosing a refrigerator

Refrigeration experts give the following tips:

The location of the device should be carefully thought out so that there is no inconvenience during operation.
Glass shelves are more durable than plastic; they are easier to clean. Transparency makes it easy to find the right product.
It is necessary to pay attention to the quality of the door seal, the way it allows you to open the door.
If the number of users is not more than 5 people, then 300 liter models are quite suitable.
Saving the kitchen space is possible when buying a refrigerator with a handle recessed in the housing.
More practical are models on wheels.