Purchasing a new one refrigerator is always stressful, because not only the safety of your food, but also comfort in the kitchen for many years depends on this decision. The household appliances market is oversaturated with models with dozens of incomprehensible functions, and it can be extremely difficult to figure out what is really needed and what is just a marketing ploy. In this article, we will collect key criteria that will help you not overpay for unnecessary things and choose a reliable assistant.
Before going to a store or opening an online catalogue, you need to clearly define your real needs, and not the desires imposed by advertising. Device dimensions - this is the first place to start, since it can be difficult to fit large-sized appliances into an existing kitchen layout problematic. An error in measurements can lead to the fact that the purchased unit simply will not fit into the doorway or will interfere with the opening of neighboring cabinets.
Modern cooling technologies have stepped far forward, and if your old refrigerator worked on the principle of periodic defrosting, now the world of systems will open before you No Frost i Total No Frost. However, do not rush to immediately discard classic drip systems, which may turn out to be quieter and better retain the natural moisture of products.
Determining the optimal dimensions and type of installation
The first step in the question of which refrigerator is better to buy is to determine its physical form. The standard width of most models is 60 cm, which fits perfectly into standard kitchen sets. However, for small kitchens or studio apartments, there are narrow models with a width of 55 cm or even 40 cm, which, however, often sacrifice the useful volume of the freezer.
The height of the device varies from compact 85 cm, which can be built under the countertop, to huge two-meter columns. Built-in appliances requires strict adherence to the dimensions of the niche specified in the instructions manufacturer, otherwise problems with compressor ventilation may occur. Free-standing models provide more freedom, but require consideration of the direction of door opening so that they do not block the passage or adjacent furniture.
⚠️ Attention: When ordering a built-in refrigerator, make sure that the cabinet door hinges correspond to the type of façade fastening (slider or pendulum system), as this affects the ease of opening and the durability of the mechanism.
It is also important to take into account the “ventilation zone”. The refrigerator does not work on its own, it removes heat, and if the gap between the back wall of the unit and the kitchen wall is less than 5-7 cm, the motor will wear out. For built-in models, this heat removal is organized through the base and the upper part of the niche, so it is absolutely impossible to ignore the requirements for the size of the box.
Defrosting systems: No Frost or Drip?
The eternal debate about which system is better has not subsided for years, and to understand which refrigerator is best to buy for you, you need to weigh the pros and cons of each technology. The system No Frost (literally “without frost”) involves forced circulation of air that passes through the evaporator, where moisture freezes and dry cold enters the chamber. This eliminates the formation of ice on the products and walls, relieving the owner of the need for manual defrosting.
However, No Frost has its own characteristics: the air in the chamber is drier, which can lead to faster airing of the products if you do not use containers or cling film. In addition, the presence of a fan and additional heating elements for defrosting the evaporator makes such models, as a rule, a little noisier and energy-consuming, although modern inverter motors reduce this difference to a minimum.
The drip system (or “crying evaporator”) is quieter and retains natural humidity, which is especially important for storing vegetables and fruits in the main chamber. Condensation periodically appears on the back wall, which flows into the groove and evaporates. The freezer compartment in such models most often requires manual defrosting once every six months to a year, which for many is an acceptable compromise for the sake of quiet operation.
The myth of burnt food
There is a common belief that No Frost “burns” food due to dry air. In fact, modern systems have dampers and sensors that regulate humidity, and the problem is solved by simply storing food in closed containers, which is in any case more hygienic.
There is also a combined system, often called Frost Free or "Full No Frost", where a drip system is used in the refrigerator compartment, and No Frost in the freezer compartment. This is the golden mean, allowing you not to defrost the freezer for years, but to maintain the juiciness of vegetables in the main compartment.
Type of compressor and noise level
The "heart" of the refrigerator is the compressor, and the reliability, energy efficiency and noise level of the device depend on its type. Traditional linear compressors operate on the “on-cool-off” principle. Such cyclic switching on creates temperature changes and a characteristic clicking sound at startup, which can be annoying at night in studio apartments.
Inverter compressors, which are now installed in most mid- and high-class models, work differently. They do not turn off completely, but smoothly regulate the power, maintaining the set temperature. Inverter technology allows you to reduce energy consumption by up to 25%, operates almost silently and extends the life of the unit due to the absence of peak loads at start.
- 🔇 Noise level: Pay attention to the dB parameter in the characteristics. A value of up to 36-38 dB is considered very quiet, 40 dB is a standard level, and anything above 42 dB can be noticeable in a small kitchen.
- ⚡ Energy consumption class: Look for the A+ or A++ marking. Although such models are more expensive to purchase, they pay for themselves in a few years due to low electricity consumption.
- 🛡️ Warranty: Manufacturers often provide an extended warranty for inverter compressors (up to 10 years), but remember that this usually only applies to the motor itself, and not to the work of replacing it.
When choosing, you should also take into account the number of compressors. One compressor serves both chambers (via an air distribution system), which saves space and energy. Two compressors allow you to independently control the temperature in the refrigerator and freezer compartments, as well as turn off one of them without harming the other, which is convenient if you are away from home for a long time.
Climate class and zoning
Many buyers ignore such a parameter as climate class, and in vain. This is an indicator that determines at what ambient temperature the refrigerator can operate effectively. If you live in an apartment without air conditioning in the summer or plan to install the refrigerator in an unheated room (for example, in a country house or in a garage), this parameter becomes critically important.
There are four main classes, designated by Latin letters. Using the device outside its temperature range will result in compressor failure, product damage and denial of warranty service.
| Class | Temperature range | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|
| N (Normal) | from +16°C to +16°C +32°C | Standard heated rooms |
| SN (Subnormal) | from +10°C to +32°C | Cool hallways, basements |
| ST (Subtropical) | from +18°C to +38°C | Hot climate, kitchens without air conditioning |
| T (Tropical) | from +18°C to +43°C | Very hot regions, summer kitchens |
Combined classes are often found, for example, SN-Twhich means a wide range of operating temperatures from +10°C to +43°C. For Russian conditions, especially if the refrigerator may be in an area of temperature fluctuations, it is better to choose a universal class SN-T.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to turn on the refrigerator at a temperature below the minimum for its class (for example, below +10°C). The oil in the compressor will thicken and the motor will burn out the first time it is started. For winter storage in an unheated room, the refrigerator must be turned off, defrosted and opened.
Internal filling and freshness zones
When the technical parameters are selected, it’s time to look inside. It is the internal ergonomics that determine whether you will be comfortable using the refrigerator every day. The shelves should be made of tempered glass, preferably with a metal frame, and be adjustable in height so that you can place a tall pan or bottle.
Particular attention should be paid to the so-called “fresh zone” (Zero Zone, BioFresh, Optimal Fresh). This is a special compartment where the temperature is maintained at about 0°C and high humidity (or, conversely, dry cold for meat). Zero temperature zone allows you to store meat, fish and dairy products 2-3 times longer than in a regular compartment, without loss of taste.
- 🥬 Vegetable compartment: Must be sealed to retain humidity, but be able to adjust the air flow.
- 🍺 Bottle shelf: A convenient element, but check that it is stable and does not rattle when the door slams.
- 🚪 Door baskets: Please note to the height of the sides - low ones may not hold tall packages of milk or juice.
An important element of the internal structure is the type of control. Mechanical regulators (knobs inside the chamber) are simple and reliable, but less accurate. Electronic control with a display on the door allows you to set the temperature with an accuracy of a degree and often includes the “Vacation”, “Super Freeze” or “Party” (intensive cooling) modes.
☑️ Checking the internal filling
Additional functions: marketing or necessity?
Modern refrigerators boast Wi-Fi modules, cameras inside, voice control and touch screens on the door. The question arises: which refrigerator is better to buy - a “smart” one or a simple one? For most users, smart home functions remain a toy. The ability to see through your phone whether the door is closed is useful, but rarely critical.
An ice maker and water dispenser on the door are convenient, but such models require a connection to a water supply, which is not always possible in the kitchen. Self-contained ice makers require manual refilling of water, which reduces their convenience to a minimum. If you're not a fan of iced cocktails every day, it's better to save money and choose a model without these options, investing in a higher-quality compressor or an anti-fingerprint coating that hides fingerprints.
Antibacterial coatings and carbon filters are a useful option that really help fight odors and bacteria. In models with No Frost this is often implemented through built-in filters that require periodic replacement. Simpler models use a coating based on silver ions, which lasts the entire service life.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why can’t a new refrigerator be turned on immediately after delivery?
During transportation, especially if the refrigerator was tilted, oil from the compressor could flow into the refrigerant circulation system. If you turn on the unit immediately, the compressor may run dry or create an oil plug, which will lead to breakdown. It is necessary to let the refrigerator stand in an upright position at room temperature for at least 2-4 hours (and in winter, if brought in from frost, up to 24 hours) so that the oil flows back into the crankcase.
Which is better: glass or plastic shelves?
It is definitely better to choose shelves made of tempered glass. They are stronger, easier to clean, do not absorb odors and can withstand more weight (up to 25-30 kg versus 10-15 kg for plastic). In addition, glass retains cold longer, which is useful during a power outage.
Is it necessary to defrost a refrigerator with No Frost?
Technically, the No Frost system itself removes moisture, and ice does not freeze. However, it is recommended to carry out hygienic washing and defrosting for disinfection 1-2 times a year. This will help remove accumulated bacteria and odors that the air circulation system cannot neutralize.
How to transport the refrigerator: lying down or standing?
The ideal option is vertical transportation. If this is not possible, and you have to carry it lying down, then you can only lay it on its side (opposite the side where the compressor tubes exit, usually the right side, but it’s better to check in the instructions) or on the backrest. Placing it on the front door or on the left side (where the compressor is often located) is strictly prohibited.
Is it true that a dark refrigerator heats up more?
The color of the case does not affect the operation of the refrigeration unit, since the thermal insulation is located inside. However, on glossy dark surfaces (black, dark blue) dust and fingerprints are much more noticeable than on light or matte surfaces (stainless steel). If you are not ready to wipe the door every day, choose textured surfaces or light colors.