How to choose the right refrigerator for your home, a review of the best models

To find out how to choose a reliable, practical and functional refrigerator, you need to take into account certain requirements and rules. First of all, you need to decide on the type of equipment, its dimensions and study the main features of the model. No detail should be left out. In the list of the best refrigerators, the product is found in different price categories with a set of basic and additional functions.

How to choose the good quality, reliable and functional refrigerator

To find a suitable and reliable refrigerator for your home, you should consider several important points:

• number of cameras;
• equipment dimensions;
• list of main functions;
• the level of noise emitted and the ability to save energy;
• manufacturing quality;
• appearance (this includes not only the design, but also the absence of defects);
• availability of additional functions.

Before going to the store for a purchase, you should familiarize yourself with the rating of the best models of each type and familiarize yourself with the existing advantages and disadvantages.

Types of refrigerators

The main distinguishing feature of all types of technology is the number of cameras.

Simple room

This type of refrigerator is a single chamber designed to cool food. Behind a common door is a small freezer compartment with its own separate door.

The height of a single-compartment refrigerator can reach 160 cm. The depth of the chambers and the width of the device do not exceed 65 cm.

Bicameral

Two-compartment refrigerators are considered popular. The equipment has two compartments with separate doors.Each refrigeration compartment in some models is divided into several chambers. In the food cooling chambers, the air temperature is around 6 degrees. Food is frozen in the freezer section.

The freezer compartment of a two-compartment refrigerator can be located both above and below. The height of the vehicle varies from 160 to 250 cm. The depth and width are 60 cm.

Multi-chamber

Multi-chamber household appliances assume the presence of three or more chambers. Each model differs in the size and location of the cameras.

A peculiarity of this type of refrigerators is the presence of a zero chamber (cooling chamber).

A certain level of humidity and temperature (0 degrees) is created in this compartment, which allows you to maintain the original freshness of the products. Meat and fish products are chilled but not frozen.

A multi-chamber refrigerator can have chambers that expand the list of its features: a compartment for quick freezing, a chamber for heating food or for storing wine-based drinks.

Side by side

In American refrigerator models, the chambers are side by side. The technique is divided into two, each side opens separately. The width of such devices can reach 125 cm, the height - up to 260 cm.

The large volume of the Side-by-Side models allows you to store many products, all the shelves are visible and you can see the contents at a glance. The price of these types of devices is high, they are not suitable for kitchens with a small area.

The main parameters, what they pay attention to

After the decision has been made on the number of chambers, they are determined with the technical characteristics of the refrigerator.

dimensions

For household purposes, refrigerators of various sizes are produced. The width and height of the refrigeration equipment depends on the number of rooms:

• The width of single-chamber refrigerators is 52-62 cm, the height is 125-165 cm.
• Standard twin chamber equipment measures over 62cm wide and 140-255cm high.
• Models with a large number of chambers are 95 cm wide and 160-250 cm high.

When choosing, the size of household appliances should be correlated with the area of ​​​​the kitchen.

Refrigerator volume

Household appliances take into account the total volume (all internal space is taken into account, including shelves and drawers) and useful (the possible amount of products that can fit into the rooms is taken into account).

The required useful volume of refrigeration equipment should be correlated with the number of people living in the apartment. The calculation formula is simple, you need to multiply 80 liters by each family member.

If the family has four people, then 80 is multiplied by 4. For such a family, you need to choose a refrigerator with a volume of more than 320 liters. For a family of two, it is enough to choose a model with a volume of up to 250 liters.

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Type of defrost/freeze

Older refrigerators are defrosted manually. It is necessary to disconnect the equipment from the power supply, wait for complete thawing, remove the water, wash and dry the surfaces. In modern types of refrigerators, a drip defrosting program or a No Frost system (without frost formation) is provided:

• With a drip system, thawed water flows along the back wall and collects in a special container.Then the water is evaporated due to the heat from the compressor. After a while, an ice crust forms on the walls, so the refrigerator should be defrosted every six months.
• The Know Frost system provides for the presence of a special cooling element, with the help of which moisture thaws and evaporates. Thanks to this system, frost does not form on the walls of the appliance and additional defrosting is not necessary. If the camera says Ful No Frost, it means all cameras are equipped with the system.

The Know Frost system, in addition to its positive aspects, has its own negative qualities. The useful volume of the refrigerator decreases, and during operation it makes noise.

Climate class

There are four climatic classes, each differing in the operating conditions of the device:

1. Class N assumes the use of equipment in an apartment at temperatures from +15 to +31 degrees.
2. Class SN allows the use of equipment at ambient temperatures from +11 to +31 degrees.
3. ST class refrigerators are suitable for hot climates. The equipment can withstand temperatures from +19 to +37 degrees.
4. Class T assumes the operation of equipment at temperatures from +20 to +42 degrees.

Often buyers do not take this parameter into account when choosing a product. The first two classes are standard.

Type and number of compressors

Most refrigerator models have a compressor, designed to freeze food in the freezer and supply cold to the refrigerator section. If there is a compressor, it is not possible to switch off each room separately.

If two compressors are considered, then each chamber operates separately, and each has its own adjustable temperature. Two compressors are found on side-by-side models or high-end refrigerators.

Compressors are of two types: linear and inverter. The first type of compressor works according to the scheme: on-off. The second type of compressors works constantly, but the capacity changes periodically. They are quieter and more energy efficient

Noise level

The operating sound level depends on the number and type of compressors. The comfortable noise range for the refrigerator is considered to be at the limit of 39 dB. The operation of the equipment at such values ​​is practically silent.

Energetic efficiency

The refrigerator works constantly, so it is important to choose a model that will save energy.

First, you need to know the energy consumption of the refrigerator of the selected type (nominal value). Then they study information about a specific model. Models belonging to classes A, B and C are considered economical and consume from 54 to 88% of the nominal value.

Freezer class

The power of the freezer depends on the type of device. The class is determined by the ability of the freezer to generate and maintain the temperature required for the storage of frozen foods.

The class of the freezer compartment is indicated by a snowflake icon (asterisk). The number of icons corresponds to the length of time the products can be stored without losing taste and benefits:

• The air temperature with a snowflake is -6 degrees. Products can be stored for up to 8 days.
• If there are two snowflakes, the temperature is -12 degrees. In this case, the products can be kept for up to 30 days.
• Three asterisks indicate an air temperature of -18 degrees. Food can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months.

How to find the necessary additional options

Everything is clear with the basic built-in functions of the refrigerator. It is more difficult to choose the additional functions that you really need. The more additional programs, the more expensive the refrigerator.

To understand which function will be useful to you and which you can do without, you need to study in detail the description of each of them.

Type of control

Different models assume a mechanical or electronic type control:

• In the case of a mechanical control, the desired operating mode of the refrigerator is set manually.
• With an electronic control type, there is a special display on the external panel. With its help, it is possible to more accurately control the temperature in the rooms. The screen displays all the information on the operation of the equipment.

Models with an electronic type of control are much more expensive than mechanically controlled varieties of refrigerators.

Air distribution system

Many modern models have a forced air distribution program. The evaporator is located behind the chambers, so when the air passes through it, no ice crust forms. In addition, the uniform air distribution ensures the same temperature level in all corners of the refrigerator.

In some models, the air supply is organized in several levels. Cooled air is supplied through special ducts in the same amount to each shelf.

Setting the humidity level

For the storage of each type of food, its own temperature and humidity regime is recommended. For example, keeping vegetables fresh requires high humidity, while refrigerated meat requires low humidity.

In some models there is a zero compartment, in which it is possible to regulate the level of humidity. The ideal option is to choose a zero two-compartment refrigerator.

Super defrost (rapid freezing)

If you put new food in the freezer, it will freeze for a long time, warming neighboring food with its heat. As a result, frozen food will be covered with a crust of ice and will contain a lot of water when thawing.

The rapid freezing system comes to the rescue. Thanks to this mode, the temperature in the freezer decreases for a while to -25-30 degrees. Quick freezing helps preserve the maximum amount of nutrients in produce.

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Holiday mode (Holiday)

For those who are often away from home for a long time, the "Vacation" mode is simply necessary. The mode allows you to save energy if the refrigerator is not used for a long time. The freezer works as before, and the refrigerator compartment maintains an air temperature of 15 degrees, which will prevent the formation of mold and foul odors.

Automatic ice maker

The system allows you to automatically fill the ice cells with water. The water first passes through the filter. The refrigerator takes water from the water supply system (communications are required) or from a special container, which must be regularly filled with water.

It is quite possible to do without this function. Just buy separate silicone cells. They are filled with water as needed and left in the freezer.

Antibacterial wall covering

The walls of the refrigerator are coated with an additional antibacterial layer of silver ions. This layer prevents the growth of pathogens inside the refrigerator. But if all parts are kept clean and washed regularly, no additional protection is needed.

Chilled water supply system

In many budget models, a special container is provided on the door, into which water is poured. This container can be easily replaced by an ordinary water container. In expensive models, water is supplied automatically from the water supply.

Air filter

Sometimes a strong smell of food of any kind will spread inside the refrigerator. Sometimes spoiled food leads to pungent odors that are hard to get rid of. A special air filter based on activated carbon allows you to combat various odors inside the rooms.

Cold accumulators

Models are produced that provide for the presence of a cold accumulator. It looks like a flat container filled with a special liquid. The liquid is characterized by an increased heat capacity.

Accumulators normalize the temperature regime in the rooms, help to cool freshly placed food faster and keep the temperature low for a long time in the event of a power failure.

Childproof door and display

The function is used to lock the control buttons. As a result, the child will not be able to change the settings. Some models have an integrated door lock.

Integrated LCD and TV

For convenience, a refrigerator with a built-in TV or LCD screen with Internet access via Wi-Fi has been created.

The choice of refrigerator ergonomics

The refrigerator you choose should perform its basic functions well and be comfortable to use. Therefore, attention should also be paid to built-in parts.

Shelves

The interior of the refrigerator is divided by shelves. Their number depends on the size of the selected unit. The shelves are made of durable glass or metal grids:

• The shelves in the form of grids do not impede the circulation of air, so that the food is cooled evenly. liquid.
• The best option is the presence of glass shelves. They are durable and easy to maintain.
• Some modern models have two-part folding shelves. The front half can be depressed. In this case, it is convenient to place large containers on the lower level.

It is desirable that the shelves can be adjusted in height. This will allow you to store food in large containers in the bedroom.

Shelves on the door

There are different shelves on the doors for storing small products, packages or medicines.

Containers

Large slide-out plastic containers are located at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment. They store fruits and vegetables. It's best to keep the drawers transparent so you can view the contents without stepping out.

Freezer drawers

The freezer has drawers and smaller fixed shelves with individual plastic doors. The number of boxes and compartments depends on the size of the refrigerator.

Lighting

Halogen or LED bulbs are considered practical. It is better if they are located not on the back wall, but on the sides. In this case, well-placed food and containers will not block the light.

Design

The classic color is always white, but it fits well in any interior and in a silver refrigerator. There are also green, red, black models.

Pen

The handle must be comfortable and solid:

• The best option is a handle built into the door (looks like a recess in the door).
• Another variant is the hanging handle.It is mostly plastic. This handle can be easily damaged and broken.

Door

A good door closes hermetically and protects against the cold. The door seal must be strong and resistant.

This is handy if the door is rearranged from side to side in case a rearrangement is initiated.

Built-in refrigerators

Built-in refrigerators are becoming increasingly popular. As a rule, they are smaller in width and height than freestanding models.

Advantages and disadvantages

The built-in refrigerator has a list of positive features:

• space saving;
• increased comfort and combination with the interior of the kitchen;
• noise reduction during operation;
• profitability.

The disadvantage is the high price of the product and the complexity of installation in a permanent place. The dimensions of such models are slightly smaller than free-standing refrigerators.

Type of recess

Refrigeration equipment can be partially or fully integrated. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Partially set back

Refrigerators are distinguished by an unusual beautiful door. Only the rear panel and the side walls of the refrigerator are hidden inside the kitchen furniture. The semi-refrigerated panel is equipped with a display and a set of indicators.

fully built

In this version, the refrigeration equipment is completely hidden in the cabinet. The only thing that gives the technician is the presence of a ventilation outlet, which is located at the bottom.

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What you need to know: recommendations for selection and use

Before choosing a built-in appliance, you should study the pros and cons.Only then can you determine exactly whether a given model is suitable or not:

• Initially, you need to decide on the installation site in an apartment or house. The location should be away from radiators and other heat sources.
• Then they are determined with the type of refrigerator. The partial recess will allow the devices to stand out against the background of other furniture. Full integration will help maintain interior uniformity.
• It is important to decide on the type of doors. There is an option on the slides when the door is pushed forward. On the hinges, the door opens to the side.
• Determined with the number of cameras.

Maintaining a built-in refrigerator is no different than freestanding appliances. The chambers must be washed periodically, do not put hot food in the chambers, as the compressor will deteriorate.

Which refrigerator is better to choose in 2019-2020: expert advice and criteria

When choosing a technique, experts advise you to pay attention to the following criteria:

• the dimensions and volume of the device should correspond to the size of the kitchen and the number of people living in the apartment;
• the number of cold rooms;
• it is better to choose lattice shelves;
• decide on the type of freezer;
• the simplest defrosting system is manual, but the No Frost system is considered practical;
• it is important to decide on a set of additional functions that the buyer really needs;
• an important feature is power consumption.

The most basic criterion to rely on is the price category of the product.

Rating of companies-manufacturers of refrigerators 2019-2020

Models of refrigerators from the following companies have been widely used:

• Indesit;
• Ariston;
• Biryusa;
• Westfrost;
• Bosch;
• Atlan;
• Electrolux;
• Zanussi;
• General Electric;

Refrigerators were on the list of top manufacturers: LG, Samsung, Panasonic, Sharp, Toshiba.

Evaluation by selection of specifications and additional features

Buyers choose the following models:

• most often they choose two-compartment refrigerators, less often - multi-compartment;
• models with a freezer below are preferred;
• equipment with a height of 190 to 200 cm is being purchased;
• chamber volume 250 liters;
• Class A+ refrigerators are in demand;
• almost all buyers prefer quiet operation of the equipment.

Most Popular Features

Popular features found in relatively inexpensive models include:

• rapid freezing / thawing;
• mechanical control to select the operating mode of the equipment;
• the presence of limiters and closures on the door;
• No Frost system;
• Holiday program;
• semi-automatic ice maker;
• billboard.

All these functions ensure the convenience and comfort of using household appliances.

Additional Features

Additional programs provide increased comfort, but the price of such equipment increases significantly. Expensive models have:

• electronic control;
• self-diagnosis system (the refrigerator finds the cause of the malfunction and displays all possible problems on the display);
• automated ice maker;
• hidden door handles;
• cool zone;
• the electronic calendar will tell you when the storage of certain products expires.

Budget refrigerators up to 20,000 rubles

In budget versions, all models are equipped with a basic set of functions. Good models are:

• The ATLANT XM 4010-022 or XM 4021-000 models are distinguished by their space, sufficient dimensions, low price, low noise level, economical energy consumption;
• the BEKO RCNK 335K00 W refrigerator is equipped with the Know Frost system, spacious, silent, electromechanical type, four drawers in the freezer;
• Indesit EF 16 - spacious refrigerator compartment, efficient energy consumption, internal display for temperature control.

The list of budget refrigerators included: Indesit SB 185, ATLANT МХМ 2835-90, Gorenje RK 41200 W, BEKO CN 327120.

Rating of the best from 20,000 rubles to 30,000 rubles

Middle-class models are considered a good buy. They are distinguished by the presence of additional functions, such as: No Frost system, electronic control. In addition, the refrigeration equipment has spacious rooms:

• The Indesit DF 4180 W and FE 4200 W models have bright internal lighting, numerous adjustable shelves, a fresh zone and a rapid defrosting system.
• ATLANT ХМ 4425-089 ND is distinguished by a powerful compressor, a built-in timer, a "Holiday" function, child protection. The indication will warn of the door not closed.
• The Liebherr CUsl 2811 is distinguished by a drip defrosting system, a large number of functions, practical shelves and a handle.

The best inexpensive models are also considered: Bosch KGS39XW20, Indesit DF 5200 W, LG GA-B409 UEQA, LG GA-B379 SVCA.

Refrigerator rating from 30,000 to 40,000 rubles

Expensive models are distinguished by quality, reliability and a long list of functions:

• Samsung RB-30 J3200EF works quietly, contains many products, inverter compressor.
• The LG GA-B389 SMQZ is equipped with an Inverter compressor, there is a freshness zone, a filter for air purification and many other functions that ensure ease of use of the equipment.
• Bosch KGN39VL17R is distinguished by the presence of an antibacterial filter, a wide range of functions. The door can be offset with a wide variety of shelving arrangements.

The most expensive models of refrigerators are: LG GA-B409 SEQA, Hotpoint-Ariston HF 7201 X RO, Gorenje RKI 5181 KW, Bosch KGS39XW20.

Rating of expensive VIP-class refrigerators

Reliability, quality, as well as the presence of a large number of programs - these are far from all the positive characteristics of expensive models:

• The Liebherr SBSes 8283 model belongs to the Side by Side type, is distinguished by a large number of functions, the presence of two compressors, the volume of the refrigerator reaches 500 liters.
• The Samsung RF905QBLAXW has electronic control, No Frost defrosting system and many other functions.
• The Panasonic NR-F555TX-N8 has five large cameras.

Other worthy models are Liebherr CBNes 3957, Samsung RSG5FURS4.0.