How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators (sometimes called a fridge) are kitchen appliances that keep food and drinks cold. They are commonly used in homes and in hotels, offices, and dorm rooms at colleges.
Some refrigerators have smart features, like cameras and sensors. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that allow you to watch videos, browse recipes, look up family calendars and shopping lists or leave notes for family members.
Control of Temperature
The right temperature for refrigerators ensures food is safe to store, slowing the deterioration of many food items due to spoilage. This is particularly important with foods like eggs and milk which are susceptible to rotting at ambient temperatures however, they remain stable at refrigerator levels. Refrigerators are also widely used to store pharmaceutical products such as vaccines and drugs that become less effective with time. Refrigerator monitoring systems can ensure that a medical facility, laboratory or any other establishment maintains the cold chain.
A refrigerator has an internal thermal insulator to keep its contents cooler than the surrounding temperature. 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 control system that activates the cooling system if its internal temperature is above the threshold set by the manufacturer. This prevents bacteria from growing in the refrigerator.
Each of the refrigerator zones is designed to serve a specific function. The bottom shelves are perfect for perishables like fresh meats and vegetables that require the most low temperature to keep their texture and taste. The shelves must be kept clean to allow cool air to circulate in the refrigerator. Keep soft cheeses and cured items in a separate drawer for deli for the perfect charcuterie platter.
Refrigerators also feature stainless steel or glass doors to protect the interior and facilitate cleaning. Certain refrigerators have a door alarm that can be programmed. It will notify you if the fridge or freezer is left open for too long. They can be programmed to alert multiple individuals and in escalating tiers depending on your requirements. You can set them to send temperature graphs by text or email.
Freestanding appliance thermometers can be a cost-effective alternative to the built-in thermometers in most refrigerators. It is crucial to monitor the temperature of the fridge and freezer frequently, particularly in the event of a power failure or fridge and freezer if you manually altered the temperature setting. Ideally, both the refrigerator and freezer should be set at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less.
Storage Capacity
The capacity of your refrigerator is an important aspect to consider when selecting the model that will best suit your requirements. There are many sizes available that range from small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic foot to large models that can hold more than 26 cubic feet. Take into consideration your family’s cooking preferences and the amount of people who live in your house to determine which size is suitable for you. For two people the average of 11-13 cubic feet of refrigerator space is adequate and 18 to 22, cubic feet is recommended.
In addition to assessing the total interior space consider the depth of your refrigerator. Some models are deeper than others, which allows them to fit in tight spaces and not take up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, with a depth that is roughly the similar to a standard kitchen cabinet’s front (though handles can protrude a little further). These are a good option for those with limited counter space. They can also look more sleek.
When buying a refrigerator, inquire about its noise level and energy consumption. Many manufacturers provide quieter refrigerators for homes. Others offer refrigerators with lower electricity consumption than similar models. You can determine the energy usage of a particular model by examining the yellow Energy Guide label. Also, test a model’s operation by opening and closing the doors.
The majority of modern refrigerators have the pantry drawer. It is a full-width section with separate temperature controls that can be used for storing various items. These drawers can be used to store party trays, wine and other items at a specific temperature. They can be programmed to store wines, deli foods, and soft drinks, based on the model.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators consume a lot of energy. It is therefore important to choose a energy-efficient refrigerator. The good news is that refrigerators have become more energy efficient over time. Insulation, motors, as well as magnetic door seals have been improved over time, which means that a modern refrigerator consumes less power than a previous model of the same size. You can reduce the electricity consumption of your refrigerator more by purchasing one that is energy efficient. A refrigerator that is Energy Star certified will consume much less energy than a comparable model ten years old or older.
It is essential to consider energy efficiency for those who have limited access to electricity grids. Refrigerators are often one of the most expensive appliances for households that are off grid, and their high energy consumption means that they require massive solar home systems (SHS) which aren’t affordable for many families making less than $2 per day. The annual energy consumption of a refrigerator is therefore an important factor in determining whether it is economical for consumers to purchase and operate (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).
We’ll begin by explaining the basic refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools down by pushing a refrigerant liquid through an enclosed system. It begins as a fluid, then goes through the compressor that reduces it to an vapor. The vapor then flows through coils on the outside of the fridge, where it draws the heat from the fridge, settling down before turning back into the liquid. This process repeats many times, keeping food cold while the vapor flows through the coils.
Although refrigerators are among the most expensive appliances for off grid consumers, improving their energy efficiency makes them more affordable. A refrigerator that is powered by a smaller SHS could be operated with less energy. This will lower total cost of the system. Energy savings differ based on the size, style and other features of a refrigerator. For instance, ice-makers and through-the-door water dispensers can add cost but may substantially increase the energy consumption, which in turn increases the amount of SHS required to power it.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspections can significantly increase the lifespan of your refrigerator. Examine the condenser, the ice maker, and the defrost drain. Also, make sure you check the seals on the door. Cleaning and replacing the water filter is also essential. These simple maintenance tasks can extend the life of your fridge and save you money on energy bills.
Cleaning the inside of your fridge freezer collection on a regular basis is the easiest and most efficient method to keep it clean. This includes throwing out old food and wiping down shelves as well as walls, crispers, and the inside of the doors of your refrigerator and freezer. This will reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and unpleasant odors. A refrigerator thermometer is a good option to monitor the temperature of your fridge regularly. A refrigerator that isn’t properly maintained could have temperature fluctuations, which could cause food spoilage and a higher cost of electricity.
It is also important to clean the condenser coils of your refrigerator twice a year to remove any dirt, dust, hair, grime and other debris that may have built up. These coils, which are essentially radiators that remove heat from the refrigerator, are located at the bottom or back of the appliance. If they are dirty, they won’t be able to disperse heat as effectively, and your refrigerator will use more power to run.
Another thing to check frequently is the gasket on your refrigerator, which is designed to create an airtight seal between the refrigerator and your home’s ductwork. This is crucial to ensure your fridge’s contents remain cool But over time, the seal could wear down from greased fingerprints, sticky syrups and dripping beverages. Clean your fridge’s seal with the help of a damp towel to keep it in good condition.
It is also a good idea, to clean the drip tray, which is located typically underneath the compressor unit of the refrigerator. This pan is used to collect water that is drained from the defrost process and should be wiped down on a regular basis to prevent the growth of mold or unpleasant odors.