Refrigerator and Freezer Buying Guide Basics

Buying a refrigerator can be an overwhelming experience - there are so many choices available! So, where do you start? Consider the basics - your space, the refrigerator's size and the refrigerator's style - before heading to the appliance store.

Space
Space is critical to consider first because it will dictate the size and sometimes the style of refrigerator you buy. If you are replacing an existing refrigerator the new refrigerator will need to fit into the current refrigerator's space. So before you start shopping you need to measure - write down the width, height, and depth of the space you have available. It's not a bad idea to write down the dimensions of your current refrigerator as well since you know it fits.

Width (side to side) and height (top to bottom) are the most critical measurements. Depth (back to front) offers some flexibility depending on the area in front of the refrigerator and how much you want the unit to stick out beyond adjacent cabinetry. Be sure to take into account the clearance needed for the refrigerator doors to swing fully open. Also, not all refrigerators can be pushed back flush to the wall because of cooling units, plugs and other components on their backside so keep this in mind.

Finally, you need to be able to get your new refrigerator into your kitchen so do a quick check of doorways, stairways and elevators to make sure you have a clear route to get your new appliance inside.

Size
Refrigerator size, or capacity, is listed in cubic feet. The general rule is a family of two needs approximately 8 to 10 cubic feet of fresh food storage, not including the freezer. For each additional person, add 1 cubic foot. Capacities can be tricky because manufacturers may list 20 to 26 cubic feet in capacity but the actual capacity available is usually less - approximately 20 to 30 percent less depending on the style of refrigerator. With that said...most 20 cubic foot refrigerators have at least 12 cubic feet of storage which is plenty for a typical family of four. Of course, you will need to take into account your own situation - if you have growing kids or you're a burgeoning cook, think about buying a larger refrigerator to accomodate your lifestyle.

Quick Tips:

• A family of 3 or less: consider refrigerators with 14 - 18 cubic feet.
• A family of 4 or more: consider refrigerators with 18 - 22 cubic feet.