How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators are kitchen appliances used to keep food and drinks cold. They’re used at home and in hotels, offices and dorm rooms at colleges.
Some refrigerators are equipped with smart features, like sensors and cameras. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that allow you to watch videos, search for recipes, look up family calendars, or shopping lists or leave notes.
Temperature Control
A proper temperature in the refrigerator will ensure food safety and avoid the food from spoiling. This is especially important for foods like eggs and milk, which can quickly rot when exposed temperatures that are not ideal but stay stable in the refrigerator. Refrigerators can be used to store pharmaceuticals such as vaccines or drugs that lose their efficacy with time. Monitoring systems for refrigerators can help ensure that an medical facility, laboratory or any other institution maintains the cold chain.
A refrigerator is equipped with an internal thermal insulation to keep its contents colder than the surrounding air. The heat pump transports warm air from outside the refrigerator to an insulated compartment, from which it cools to a very low temperature. The refrigerator also has a controlled system that switches on the cooling system when its internal temperature exceeds the threshold set by the manufacturer. This prevents bacteria from growing within the refrigerator.
Each section of the refrigerator is designed to serve a specific function. The bottom shelves are perfect for perishables like fresh meats and vegetables that require the lowest temperature to preserve their texture and taste. The shelves must be kept clear to allow cool air to circulate in the refrigerator. Store soft cheeses and cured food items in a separate drawer for deli to create the perfect charcuterie platter.
Certain refrigerators have stainless steel or glass doors to protect the interior. They also make it easier to clean. Some refrigerators also include a door alarm that can be programmed to warn you if the fridge or freezer doors are left open for too long. You can program them to alert multiple people and in escalating levels depending on your requirements. You can set them up to send temperature graphs via text or email.
Many refrigerators come equipped with thermometers however for those that don’t, an independent appliance thermometer is an inexpensive way to check the fridge and freezer temperature. It is important to check the temperature of the fridge and freezer often, especially in the event of an outage in power or you’ve manually changed the temperature setting. The ideal temperature for the refrigerator and freezer is 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Capacity for Affordable fridges Storage
Refrigerator capacity is an important factor when it comes to choosing the right model to meet your requirements. There are a variety of sizes to choose from that range from small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic foot to larger models with a capacity over 26 cubic feet. To determine the size you require, take into consideration your family’s cooking habits and the number of people living in your home. For two people the average of between 11 and 13 cubic foot of refrigerator space is adequate, while 18 to 22, cubic feet is recommended.
Look at the depth of the fridge in addition to the overall space. Some models are more shallow than others, allowing them to fit into tight spaces without taking up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, having an overall depth that is the similar to the typical kitchen cabinet’s front (though handles can protrude a little further). They are a great option for areas where counter space is a problem, and they can also look sleeker than traditional fridges.
When buying a refrigerator, inquire about the level of noise and energy consumption. There are many manufacturers that offer quieter models for residential use, and others offer refrigerators that use less energy than comparable models. You can determine the average energy consumption of a model by checking the yellow Energy Guide label. Also, test a model’s operation by closing and opening the doors.
Most modern refrigerators include the pantry drawer. It is a full-width compartment with separate temperature controls that can be used to store various items. These drawers are ideal for storing party trays and wine, since they allow you to keep them at certain temperatures. Based on the model, these drawers might include pre-programmed settings to store wines and deli meats as well as soft drinks.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators use a lot of electricity. That’s why it’s crucial to select one that is energy efficient. The good news is that refrigerators have become more energy efficient in the past. Insulation, motors, as well as magnetic door seals have all improved over time, so the latest refrigerator will consume less power than a model older in the same size. It is possible to cut down on the refrigerator’s electricity consumption even further by purchasing a highly energy efficient model. A refrigerator that is Energy Star-rated will use a lot less energy than an equivalent model ten years old or more.
Energy efficiency is especially important for those who have no access to electricity grids. Refrigerators are often among the most costly appliances for households that are off grid, and their large energy consumption means they require large solar home systems (SHS) which aren’t affordable fridges [Hu.fe.n.gk.uan.Gni.ubi.uk6.2] for families earning $2 per day or less. The energy consumption of a refrigerator is therefore an important element in determining whether it is cost-effective for consumers to buy and run (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).
To understand how refrigerators function, we start with the fundamental refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools by pushing liquid refrigerant through a sealed unit beginning as a liquid and is pushed through a compressor that reduces the liquid to create the form of a liquid. This vapor flows into coils that are outside the fridge and draws heat from it. It then cools down, and turns back to liquid. This process is repeated several times, ensuring that the food remains cold while the vapor moves through the coils.
While refrigerators are among the most expensive appliances available to off-grid consumers, improving their energy efficiency makes them more affordable. A refrigerator powered by a smaller SHS can be operated with less energy. This will reduce the overall system costs. 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 can add cost, but can significantly increase the energy use and, in turn, increase the amount of SHS needed to power it.
Maintenance
The life span of a refrigerator can be greatly improved with regular maintenance and inspection. This can be accomplished by checking the condenser coils, the ice maker, defrost drain and the gasket seal on the door to ensure that it is in good working order. Additionally, cleaning and changing water filters is equally important. These simple maintenance tasks will aid in prolonging the life of your refrigerator and save money on your energy costs.
Cleaning the inside of your fridge regularly is the most efficient and effective way to maintain it. This includes throwing out old food and wiping down shelves and crispers, walls and the inside of the doors of your refrigerator and freezer. This will help prevent unpleasant odors as well as reduce the chance of contracting food-borne illnesses. A refrigerator thermometer is a good option to monitor the temperature of your studio fridge regularly. A refrigerator that isn’t properly maintained can be subject to temperature fluctuations that can lead to food spoilage and a higher electric bill.
It is also crucial to clean the condenser coils of your refrigerator twice a year to remove any dirt, hair, dust, and other debris that could have been accumulating. These coils are located on the bottom or back of your appliance. They are basically radiator-like components that help remove heat from your refrigerator. These coils can’t dissipate the heat as effectively when they are dirty. Your refrigerator will consume more energy to run.
Check the seal on your refrigerator which is designed to provide an airtight seal between your refrigerator and the ductwork that runs through your home. This is crucial to ensure that your side mount fridge‘s contents stay cold, but over time the seal could wear down by greasy fingerprints, sticky syrups and dripping drinks. To keep the gasket of your refrigerator in good shape, you should frequently clean it with an aqueous cloth.
It is also a good idea to clean the drip tray, which is located usually beneath the compressor unit of the refrigerator. The drip pan is responsible for collecting the water from the refrigerator’s defrost cycle. It is recommended to clean it regularly to prevent the growth of mold and unpleasant odors.