How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators (sometimes called fridges) are kitchen appliances that keep food and drinks cold. They're used at home and in hotels, offices, and college dorm rooms.
Some refrigerators have smart features, including cameras and sensors. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that let you watch videos, look up recipes, look up family calendars and shopping lists, or even leave notes for family members.
Temperature Control
The ideal temperature for your refrigerator ensures food safety and avoid spoilage. This is especially important for food such as eggs and milk that can quickly rot at ambient temperatures but remain stable at refrigerator levels. Refrigerators are also widely used to store pharmaceuticals like vaccines and medicines that lose efficacy over time. Monitoring systems for refrigerators can help ensure that a medical facility, laboratory or any other establishment maintains the cold chain.
The internal thermal insulator of a refrigerator keeps its contents cooler than the surrounding air. It makes use of an energy source to transport warm air from the refrigerator into an insulated storage compartment where it gets extremely cold. The refrigerator also has a controlled system that turns on the cooling system if its internal temperature is above the pre-set threshold. This prevents bacteria from forming inside the refrigerator.
Each of the refrigerator zones is designed for a different function. The lower shelves are ideal for perishables, such as fresh meats and vegetables that require the most low temperature to keep their texture and flavor. Clear shelves allow cool air to circulate throughout the refrigerator. A separate drawer for deli can be used to store soft cheeses and cured foods for the perfect charcuterie platter.
Some refrigerators feature doors made of stainless steel or glass to protect the interior. They also make it easier to clean. Certain refrigerators have a door alarm that can be programmed. It will alert you when the fridge or freezer is left open too long. You can set them up to alert multiple people and in increments based on your needs. They can even be set to record and send temperature graphs remotely via text or email.
Most refrigerators have built-in thermometers however, for those that don't, a freestanding appliance thermometer is an inexpensive method of monitoring the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator. It is important to monitor the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator often, especially during power outages or if the temperature settings are manually adjusted. Ideally, both the refrigerator and freezer should be set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less.
Capacity of Storage
The capacity of your refrigerator is an important aspect to consider when selecting the model that will best suit your needs. There are a variety of sizes to choose from, ranging from small refrigerators with a capacity of less than 15 cubic feet, to large models that can contain more than 26 cubic feet. Take into consideration your family's cooking preferences and the amount of people who live in your home to determine the best size for you. On average, 11 to 13 cubic feet of refrigerator space is adequate for two people. 18 to 22 cubic feet are recommended for three to four persons.
Take a look at the depth of the fridge, in addition to the total space. Some models are more shallow than others, which allows them to fit in tight spaces without taking up too much room under your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, having a depth that is roughly the similar to the standard kitchen cabinet's front (though handles may protrude slightly further). They are a great option for kitchens where counter space is limited and can look more sleek than traditional refrigerators.
Be sure to inquire about the energy consumption of the refrigerator and noise level when shopping. There are many manufacturers that provide quieter refrigerators for residential use. Some offer refrigerators with less electricity consumption than similar models. You can find out the energy consumption average of a particular model by examining the yellow Energy Guide label. Also, test a model's operation by closing and opening the doors.
The pantry drawer is usually the largest section of the refrigerator, with separate temperature controls. It can be used to store a variety things. These drawers are particularly useful to store party trays and wine, as they allow you to store them at a specific temperature. These drawers can be programmed to hold wine, deli foods, and soft drinks, depending on the model.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators consume a lot electricity. That's why it's crucial to choose one that is energy efficient. Over time, refrigerators have become increasingly energy efficient. Insulation, motors, and magnetic door seals have all improved over time, so a modern refrigerator consumes less power than an older one of the same size. It is possible to reduce the energy consumption of your refrigerator further by buying an energy efficient model. A refrigerator that is Energy Star-rated will use less energy than an equivalent model that is ten years old or older.
Energy efficiency is particularly important for consumers who have limited access to electricity grids. Refrigerators are typically among the most costly appliances for off-grid households and their large energy consumption means they require large solar home systems (SHS) that are not affordable for many families earning less than $2 per day. A refrigerator's annual energy consumption is therefore a crucial factor in determining whether it is affordable for consumers to buy and run (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).
To understand how refrigerators function first, we must understand the fundamental refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools by pushing liquid refrigerant through a sealed system beginning as a liquid, and then is pushed through a compressor that compresses the liquid to form a vapor. This vapor is then pumped into coils located on the exterior of the fridge, where it draws heat from the fridge, cooling down before turning back into liquid. This process is repeated several times, keeping food cool while the vapor flows through the coils.
While refrigerators are among the most expensive appliances available to off-grid consumers, enhancing their energy efficiency makes them more affordable. By reducing the amount of energy they consume, a refrigerator can be powered by a smaller SHS and reduce the overall system cost for consumers. Depending on the size, style, and features of the refrigerator, the energy savings will differ. Water dispensers and ice makers through the door, for instance, add cost however they can also increase the energy consumption of the refrigerator, which in turn increases the amount of SHS required to power it.
Maintenance
The life span of a refrigerator can be greatly improved with regular maintenance and inspection. Examine the condenser, ice maker and defrost drain. Also, make sure you check the seals on the door. cheap fridges uk and replacing the water filter is also important. Doing these simple tasks can help prolong the life of your refrigerator and also save money on energy bills.
The simplest and most efficient refrigerator maintenance task is to clean the interior of your refrigerator frequently. This includes throwing out old food items, wiping down shelves and crispers, walls and interior of your refrigerator's doors. This will reduce the chance of contracting foodborne illness and unpleasant smells. A fridge thermometer is recommended to check the temperature of your fridge regularly. Refrigerators that aren't maintained can experience temperature fluctuations that could cause food waste and more expensive electricity bills.
It is also essential to clean the condenser coils in your refrigerator twice a year to get rid of any dirt hair, dust and other debris that may have been accumulating. The coils are situated on the bottom or back of your appliance. They are essentially radiator-like parts that help remove heat from your refrigerator. These coils can't dissipate the heat as efficiently if they are dirty. Your refrigerator will consume more energy to run.
Another thing you should be checking often is the gasket in your refrigerator that is designed to create an air-tight seal between the refrigerator and your home's ductwork. This is crucial to ensure that your fridge's contents remain cold However, over time, the seal may wear down from greasy fingerprints, sticky syrups and dripping drinks. To keep the gasket of your refrigerator in good working order, frequently clean it with an aqueous cloth.
It is also a good idea to clean the drip tray, which is usually under the compressor unit of the refrigerator. The pan is used to store the water that comes from the defrost cycle and must be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent the growth of odors or mold.