Replacing Your Refrigerator

Similar to when an individual chooses a new stove, dishwasher or any other large appliances for the kitchen or home, choosing a refrigerator can be an extremely daunting task, something that seems overwhelming to the typical consumer. There comes a time in every home owner's life where they are going to need to replace a new refrigerator, whether this is due to damaged equipment that needs to be replaced, renovations of the kitchen as a whole or simply due to the wish for something new.

Despite what the commercials may say to the contrary, the whole process of selection and determination of a new refrigerator does not have to be an excruciating and long drawn out process. In fact, it can be a fun and enjoyable experience (personally, I love to go window shopping). In order to get the refrigerator of your dreams, all you need to do is use these simple guidelines.

• Type. Basically a refrigerator is an appliance that has the sole purpose of keeping perishable items in viable and edible condition. That being said, most refrigerators are the same no matter how you look at it, or what you plan on doing with it, the basic purpose of the refrigerator is the same. To help choose the best type of fridge for your needs, you should keep an eye out for the various styles that are inherent for each model carried under each brand. Some of the styles that you are going to see is side by side, top and bottom, and built in units that look as if they are just another set of cabinets. Largely the decision is going to be based upon your personal preferences.
• Features. There are numerous types of features that you may wish to have included in the next unit that you purchase. Some of these features include things like icemakers, water dispensers, easy access mini doors, vegetable crispers and more. When looking at the various types of features that are available, keep in mind that the more features that you have then the more this is going to cost you. As you are looking to make your purchase, then you need to keep in mind that everything you are looking at is going to impact your final purchase price.
• Reviews. As always, prior to making your final decision on the models or brand, you should take a look at what the consumer and professional reviews are for each particular model that you have in mind are. Looking to periodicals such as Consumer Reports, as well as various websites and talking to representatives (i.e. sales people) from different stores to get as many view points as possible. This helps to ensure that all pertinent angles are covered in your deliberations.
• Color and Size. Finally, you need to decide on what the color of your new unit is going to be, as well as the size of the particular unit. Size, believe it or not, really does matter in this instance. Typically, a family of six is going to need between 27 and 32 ft3 of space for all their needs. Sometimes though, this can lead to problems when trying to place larger unites into some of the spaces that they were not meant for. Ensure that you have the specifications and dimensions for where you are going to be putting the unit, It is going to do no good to purchase a new refrigerator that you cannot use because it does not fit where it is supposed to, or does not match the rest of your kitchen.