How to choose the ideal refrigerator: characteristics and examples

Refrigerator Specifications

Width and height

On average, you can find on sale both devices with a base of 45 × 60 cm for small kitchens, and units with a width of more than 80 cm.

Before purchasing, measure how much area you are willing to allocate for installation.

Height also has a wide range of values. Small ones reach 90 cm, and some can be 2 meters. The standard height is 150 – 180 cm. It is also the most comfortable for most people, regardless of their height.

Volume

There is a distinction between total and usable volume. The first refers to the size of the internal space along with all the shelves and drawers. The second means the amount at which food can be placed for storage.

You need to pay attention to the second indicator, since two models with the same total volume may have different useful values.

The following formula will help you calculate the optimal size:

120 liters + 60 liters for each person.

You can focus on the following values:

• up to 100 liters - for a summer house, a small office or a hotel;
• 200 – 300 liters – for two persons and a small apartment;
• 300 – 500 liters – for a large family and a spacious kitchen;
• 500 or more - if the family has more than 5 people and a large kitchen space.

Energy consumption

According to some estimates, the refrigerator accounts for at least 10% of all energy costs in the house. It’s not surprising, because this is the only device that we almost never turn off, even if we’re leaving somewhere. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to the energy consumption class of the device.

Energy efficiency is denoted by letters from A to G. Conditional 100% is denoted by the letter D and others are calculated from it.

Class A on a green background means a high level of energy efficiency of refrigeration equipment.

There are also models with increased energy saving rates, they are designated as A+, A++ or A+++. Such refrigerators are more expensive, but this difference pays off over years of use.

Number and location of cameras

Depending on the number of chambers, refrigerators are:

• single-chamber,
• two-chamber,
• three-chamber,
• four or more cameras.

Single-chamber units are small units that do not have a freezer, or it is located inside the main compartment behind a separate door.

Two-chamber - one has a refrigerator compartment, and the other has a freezer compartment. In such devices it is convenient to freeze supplies for a long time. Three-chamber - in addition to the refrigerator and freezer compartments, they include a so-called freshness zone. This is a compartment in which the temperature is maintained from 0 to +2 °C. It perfectly preserves chilled meat and fish - they will remain fresh, as after purchase, for at least seven days.

Greens and vegetables will remain fresh after 2 weeks, as if they were just picked from the garden.

Four or more chambers - in such models, the main and freezer compartments are divided according to the type of product for which they are intended.

It is also necessary to take a closer look at the different options for positioning the cameras relative to each other:

• The freezer on top creates certain inconveniences: the refrigerator compartment is usually used more often than the freezer, and you have to bend down often to get food.

• A bottom freezer is the most common option for the home. In addition, such units usually have a larger freezer compartment than those in which it is located at the top.
• Side-by-Side - in this appliance the freezer is located on the side of the refrigerator compartment.

• French Door – at the bottom there is a wide freezer compartment, and at the top there is a refrigerator compartment with hinged doors.

Defrosting system

In the production of refrigerators, several systems for removing ice and frost are used:

• Manual - once every 2 - 3 months the device will have to be turned off, allowed to thaw and remove excess water. Today, this technology for defrosting the cooling chamber is no longer used in production.
• Drip - moisture freezes on the back wall, and when the compressor is turned off, it melts and flows down into a special pan. However, the freezer cannot self-clean, so you will have to defrost it manually. The method is found in inexpensive models.
• No Frost – does not require defrosting to remove ice. This is carried out for hygienic purposes only. The fan creates air circulation and directs it to the evaporator. At some point, the heating element turns on, which melts the ice and the liquid flows into the tray.
• Neo Frost – achieves faster, stable cooling in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments at energy level A+. It also prevents the transfer of odor between compartments, maintains humidity at an optimal level (90%), which helps maintain the freshness of vegetables and fruits.

Please note that even the best and most expensive refrigerator still needs to be defrosted at least once a year.

Compressor

It is the compressor that is responsible for the internal microclimate in the refrigerator. Therefore, the operation of the entire device depends on how successfully it copes with its task.

There are single-compressor and double-compressor devices.

Single-compressor - one element cools all chambers. As soon as the temperature in one compartment rises, the compressor increases its power, which leads to a decrease in temperature in both compartments. According to experts, such an installation quickly exhausts its service life and fails.

Two-compressor – independent compressors are installed for the cooling and freezing compartments. They operate in parallel, and you can safely turn off one of them, while the other will continue to operate as before.

The principle of the compressor design also differs:

• linear - reduces the temperature to the desired level and turns off, and as soon as the temperature rises, turns on again;
• inverter - works constantly, maintaining the set values.

If you believe the opinion of experts, such a unit wears out less and works much quieter than its linear counterparts. It is important to know that the compressor is afraid of power surges, so if you periodically have power outages, install a voltage stabilizer.

Climate class

It turns out that each refrigerator has a specific marking, which indicates what climate the device is intended for.

If the unit breaks down and upon inspection it turns out that its operating conditions did not correspond to the climate class, then the warranty does not apply to such a case.

Noise level

This option comes to one of the central places in tiny apartments, where the refrigerator has to be installed in the hallway or living room. Agree, it’s unpleasant to wake up at night due to the roar of the unit.

The noise produced depends on the type of compressor: inverter compressors tend to be quieter than linear compressors. But even for a linear device, the noise level should not exceed 40 dB. This is the volume that is considered quiet to the human ear.

Control type

The electromechanical control method is a familiar drum or round lever that rotates and sets the desired temperature. Modern refrigerators often have separate mechanisms for each chamber.

The electronic touch panel allows you to select microclimate indicators inside the unit by pressing buttons. Its advantage is the ability to set the exact temperature.

Appearance

Traditional white devices have been replaced by more stylish silver, beige and black ones. Colored housings are increasingly appearing on sale: red, blue, orange and brown.

Some have decorative designs and embellishments.

Many models have a certain style. For example, refrigerators in the style of the last century are perfect for a vintage kitchen. Ultra-modern devices with many lighting elements will fit into the high-tech style. The glass finish will perfectly complement the modern style.

If you plan to hide the device behind the facade, then choose specialized equipment so as not to overpay for decor. All the same, a refrigerator built into a common furniture row will not be noticeable.

Internal configuration

Shelves can be made in the form of gratings, monolithic glass or plastic structures. Grates provide better air circulation, and glass ones are more convenient to use and easy to clean. Therefore, it is impossible to say which option is better, it is a matter of taste.

Take a closer look at the egg tray - it should contain ten cells, since in our country it is customary to sell eggs in this quantity. But in some countries, eggs are packed in six packs and the tray is designed only for this number.

Also evaluate the capacity and location of the drawers for vegetables and fruits. The bottle compartment will help you save a lot of space.

Antibacterial protection

Did you know that the refrigerator is the dirtiest place in the house? According to experts, there are even more germs in it than in the toilet!

It is not surprising that manufacturers are trying to come up with antimicrobial protection systems and implement them in their devices. An antibacterial layer of silver ions is applied to the internal surfaces of some refrigerators. It prevents harmful bacteria from multiplying and protects against the development of mold.

The ionizer also performs a protective function. In it, air passes through a high-voltage mesh, where oxygen is converted into active ions with an antimicrobial effect. Of course, the presence of these technologies does not replace regular washing and airing.

You can remove odors from the refrigerator yourself with your own hands, using effective methods against the most corrosive odors.

Additional functions

• Water cooling. A refrigerator can do the work of a cooler in terms of cooling. In this case, it must be connected to a water supply or have a special tank for filling water.
• Ice maker. Useful if you like making cocktails. Water enters it automatically or is poured manually.

• Super freezing. When activated, the temperature in the freezer drops to -24 °C for a short time. This allows you to quickly freeze supplies, preserving maximum taste and nutrients.
• Vacation mode. According to the advice of experts, it should be activated if the refrigerator will not be used for a long time. It makes it possible to minimize energy costs. The freezer remains completely frozen and the refrigerator compartment is kept at a temperature to prevent mold from forming.
• Adjustment of air flow and cooling of different zones. You can independently choose where vegetables or dairy products will be stored in your refrigerator, and adjust the functions of the device to your desires.
• Alarm when the door is open. If the door is open too long, the device emits a signal.
• Child protection. Blocks the control panel, and in some cases, the door.
• Re-hanging doors. If necessary, the door can be located both on the right and on the left. Even cheap models are now equipped with this option.
• Wheels. The presence of wheels on at least two legs greatly facilitates the transportation and movement of heavy equipment.
• Built-in TV and display with Internet access. There are currently few such devices on the market and their prices are very high.

Manufacturers

In 2022, there are more than 30 refrigerator manufacturers on the market. And these are only the most popular and proven major players. Of these, the 20 most common in Russia can be identified:

1. Beko,
2. Bosch,
3. Candy,
4. Gorenje,
5. Haier,
6. Hansa,
7. Hotpoint-Ariston,
8. Indesit,
9. LG,
10. Liebherr,
11. Nord,
12. Pozis,
13. Samsung
14. Sharp,
15. Shivaki,
16. Siemens,
17. Stinol,
18. Atlant,
19. Biryusa,
20. Saratov.

What else to pay attention to

So, you have decided on the basic characteristics and nice options. We came to the store and found the models we needed. What else should you pay attention to?

1. What is the lighting like inside the refrigerator compartment? It is practical if the bulbs are halogen and are located not on the back wall, but on the sides. This way you can always see the contents of the refrigerator, even if the shelves are densely filled with food.
2. What are the shelves made of? Glass shelves are the most practical: durable, easy to clean, and do not obstruct your view. It is convenient if there are bending shelves or the refrigerator compartment is designed according to the principle of a designer. By changing the location of the shelves, you can even place large dishes.
3. Do the doors swing to the other side? It will come in handy if you decide to make a rearrangement.
4. Is there a handle on the door? If the refrigerator is in the aisle, you will cling to it.
5. Are the door seals elastic? If the rubber has become rough, the door will not fit tightly.
6. Does the refrigerator have wheels? At least two. Their presence greatly simplifies transportation.
7. Are there any scratches on the body? Any flaws are a reason to take a copy from the warehouse or demand a discount.

After getting acquainted with the characteristics and inspection, you can safely go to the checkout.

All consumers want to have economical, practical and most reliable refrigerators. Advice from a repairman will help you choose a decent model of household appliance at an affordable price.

Price

I think it is obvious that the price of a refrigerator depends on all the parameters described above. In addition, there is an additional payment for the brand, when equipment with the same characteristics from a well-known brand costs more than from a similar unpopular one.

The price range for refrigerators is as follows:

• small single-chamber models - from 6 thousand rubles;
• medium-sized two-chamber refrigerators with a drip system and a linear compressor - from 13 thousand rubles;
• two-chamber devices with an inverter compressor and No Frost - from 20 thousand rubles;
• large two-chamber refrigerators with additional options - from 30 thousand rubles;
• multi-chamber devices Side-by-Side, French Door - from 50 thousand rubles.

Consider the main functions

The first thing you need to decide is whether you want a drip system or No Frost, i.e. without frost. The difference in these systems is simple. No Frost uses an internal air circulation system to dry it, preventing the formation of frost. The disadvantage of this system is that food in the refrigerator can dry out. Should be wrapped in plastic bags or plastic containers. With a drip system, excess moisture flows down the inner rear surface of the refrigerator out through a special hole. The disadvantage is that if this hole becomes clogged, moisture will accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment. Among the additional functions, manufacturers offer:

• sound indication of an open door;
• reversible doors;
• information display;
• ice generator;
• container for water;
• sound alarm for temperature increase, etc.

Remember that additional functions are not always in demand, but they can significantly affect the cost of the refrigerator. obzorok.ru

Errors in selection

Many consumers unknowingly make mistakes that subsequently spoil the joy of using new equipment.

The most common errors are the following:

• Buying a refrigerator secondhand

No one can guarantee that a used refrigerator is in good condition. It is also unknown where it was bought, whether it was used correctly, and whether transportation standards were observed. Therefore, the desire to save can be very expensive. The right thing to do in such an important matter is not to waste time on trifles, but to purchase a good-quality new unit.

• Incorrect volume and dimensions

If you buy one that is too small, then it will not be enough to accommodate provisions and in order to fit everything in, you will have to fill the refrigerator tightly. And this is fraught with failure of the compressor. At the same time, a refrigerator that is too large will also cause a lot of inconvenience - it will take up a lot of space and increase energy bills.

• Unverified company

In pursuit of profit, some people buy devices from an unknown manufacturer, but at a low price. Yes, you may be lucky and the refrigerator will work properly, but the opposite situation may also arise - it will quickly break down or perform its functions poorly. And it will be difficult to find rare parts to replace if they break down.

• Dubious online store

Also a typical mistake in the pursuit of savings. Don't risk your money. If something happens, it will most likely be impossible to return the equipment and get back the invested funds. Look at forums with blacklists of retail outlets. Is yours there?

• Lots of bells and whistles

The extreme that many people go to is the desire for the unit to have all sorts of functions, although objectively many of them are not particularly needed. For example, child locking if you have children over six years old, because you can already explain the rules of use to them.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Five questions, the answers to which will help you quickly choose the right equipment:

Refrigeration appliances are equipment that should be in every kitchen. Thanks to the wide range on the market and the above recommendations, you can purchase the optimal refrigerator model. Which will not only cope with its main task - cooling and freezing food, but will also delight you with a number of extremely useful functions.

Are you planning to buy a refrigerator and want to clarify a few nuances? Ask your questions to our experts and other site visitors below this post.

If you think that our rating is missing another model that is no less worthy and popular among buyers, write to us about it in the comments, indicating the strengths of the refrigerator.

Which refrigerator should you choose?

We got acquainted with the main parameters of refrigerators, now it’s time to decide on a specific model. For clarity, let’s take several typical families and select a suitable device for them.

• A married couple of pre-retirement age chooses a reliable unit for their dacha. They go there on weekends. Their house is small, and therefore space is limited. At the dacha there is a cold cellar where preparations are stored, as well as fresh vegetables, fruits and berries. Sometimes children and grandchildren come to the dacha. The purchase budget is 15 thousand rubles.
• Newlyweds choose their first refrigerator together. They don't have children, but are planning to have a child in a couple of years. They have a new apartment with a kitchen area of ​​9 square meters. m. On weekdays, they prefer to have lunch in a cafe, and on weekends they often go to a restaurant, so they do not have a large supply of groceries and ready-made dishes. We are ready to allocate no more than 50 thousand rubles for the purchase.
• A large family with three children of different ages buys a refrigerator for their country house. The kitchen is large and the space is unlimited. They prefer to shop once a week at the supermarket and market, and freeze vegetables and berries for the winter. You have to cook a lot; for the youngest child there is a separate menu according to age. The price should not exceed 200 thousand rubles.

Let's create a table of needs for each family.

Check out 10 popular models of refrigerators of different types:

1. Bosch Serie 4 KGN39VI1MR for RUB 47,990.
2. Indesit DS 4180 SB for RUB 20,990.
3. Bosch VitaFresh Serie 4 KGN39XL2AR for RUB 57,990.
4. LG DoorCooling+ GA-B509SQKL for RUB 43,990.
5. Indesit DS 320 W for RUB 22,990.
6. Indesit DS 316 W for RUB 17,990.
7. BBK RF-050 for RUB 5,390.
8. Bosch Serie|4 KGN39XC2AR for RUB 57,990.
9. Nordfrost CX 341 032 for RUB 15,990.
10. Atlant XM 4208-000 for 12,790 rubles.

Here is another useful video about choosing a refrigerator with recommendations for specific models from a household appliance specialist with many years of experience.

The best manufacturers

If you don’t know which brand of refrigerator is the most reliable and durable, we recommend that you consider purchasing products from one of the following companies:

1. Samsung
2. Liebherr
3. Indesit
4. LG
5. Bosch
6. Beko
7. Sharp
8. Hotpoint-Ariston (Ariston)
9. Gorenje
10. Korting

Of the domestic brands involved in the production of household refrigerators, I would like to recommend the Russian company Biryusa (Biryusa), as well as the Belarusian Atlant . If you want to choose an inexpensive but good refrigeration unit for your home, pay attention to these brands. In addition, the Atlant company accounts for more than 20% of sales on the Russian market, which is a leading indicator. You can learn more about the rating of refrigerator manufacturers by quality and reliability in our corresponding article.

Vestfrost

The Danish company, which has been exporting household appliances since the early 1990s, has caused a stir by producing refrigerators in a variety of colors. She has a royal award from her country and works according to European quality standards.

The Russian market offers high quality models, the assembly of which is done in Turkey. The company produces refrigeration equipment, ranging from small freezers to full-fledged two-chamber refrigerators.

Westfrost refrigerators are valued for their elegant design (the designer was part of the team of the famous Bang&Olufsen bureau), which will become an individual design object for any kitchen. Also indisputable are the use of modern technologies: LED backlighting, temperature and humidity control, tempered glass filling, and economical mode.

The problem may be the high cost (from 40 thousand rubles), as well as a small number of service centers.

Expert opinion

It-Technology, Electrical power and electronics specialist

Ask questions to the “Specialist for modernization of energy generation systems”

How to choose a refrigerator for your home: tips for choosing, features you need to look at when buying When defrosting, nothing good happens either, water flows, the motor overheats, you have to spend a lot of resources on cooling from scratch, and not on maintaining the cold. Ask, I'm in touch!

Freezer

How to choose freezer settings?

We have already mentioned some parameters of the freezer. This is a type of defrosting and autonomous cold retention during a power outage. The volume is selected individually, based on the needs of the family and the habit of stocking up on food for future use. There are two more criteria that are worth paying attention to:

Minimum temperature

. This parameter determines how long the products will be stored. Modern models can lower the temperature to -32 degrees. Here, the lower it is, the better. Moreover, in each refrigerator the temperature can be adjusted to your liking.

Freezing power

. Shows how many products can be frozen in the freezer at the same time. The taste directly depends on this. The faster the product freezes, the less its structure is destroyed.

If you freeze a lot of food, it is better to choose models with drawers. They are more spacious and convenient for long-term storage. If there are frequent power outages, you should give preference to a model with cold storage batteries.

Vestfrost VF 492 GLM

The most spacious freezer

Among two-chamber refrigerators, the model from Vestfrost has a spacious freezer compartment of 155 liters. And this is without greatly increasing the external dimensions. Rating participant:
10 best refrigerators with a large freezer

Defrosting technology

Which defrosting method is best?

Refrigerators with manual defrosting of both chambers are a thing of the past. Manufacturers now offer models equipped with an automatic defrosting option. Due to the design features, forced defrosting of the refrigerator has to be carried out no more than once every six months. There are several systems and each has its own pros and cons.

Drip system

. When the heating element is automatically turned on, the frost formed on the evaporator thaws, and the moisture enters the pan installed on the compressor through the drainage system. Under the influence of the heat of a running motor, the water gradually evaporates. When choosing a refrigerator, pay attention to the location of the evaporator. It can be mounted (visible in the refrigerator compartment) or foamed. The second option looks more aesthetically pleasing, but it has a big drawback. Gradually, under the influence of moisture, metal corrosion may begin and freon may leak. And since the evaporator is located inside the housing, the refrigerator will have to be opened to fix the leak - such repairs will not be cheap.

No Frost

. This defrosting system is based on air circulation. Frost does not form, the moisture condenses and immediately evaporates. Manufacturers claim that there is no need for defrosting, but in practice it is better to do this at least once a year. If the technical characteristics of the refrigerator indicate Full No Frost, this means that both chambers are equipped with the system. At first glance, No Frost refrigerators seem very convenient, but they also have several drawbacks. Firstly, there is an increased noise level, and secondly, the need to store products wrapped or in closed containers. Due to constant air circulation, they quickly weather and dry.