Editor's Summary: Before you start shopping for a new
refrigerator you'll want to read this article that will help you
make a wish list for your new appliance. Get some ideas about freezer
storage space and energy efficiency.
Going appliance shopping is a lot like buying shoes. Some people
hate it, while others savor the opportunity of inspecting various
models to find just the right fit for their kitchen and lifestyle.
If it has been a few years since you bought a new appliance, and
especially a refrigerator, you may want to give some thought in
advance to the type of features you want it to have, including size,
storage space, compartments, and freezer capacity.
Start by browsing current newspaper ads or local appliance stores
for sales or discount items. While it is not always best to buy
cheap, it doesn’t hurt to check out the bargain deals first to see
if you can find what you want. This also will help you get a better
idea of regular prices, available features, and comparison-shopping.
You will need to give some thought to design, model, and color,
as well. Some shoppers prefer white or black appliances to blend
with kitchen décor, while others prefer another color that goes
with the theme or style of the rest of the home.
When you finally head to the appliance store to check out the various
models on display, start by reading the sticker ad on or near each
refrigerator. This should tell you how much each unit has of shelf
space, for example, as well as other consumer interest information
like how much electricity various models will use. Look for the
energy saver brand, since energy use can vary widely from one unit
to another.
Consider the amount of freezer space you need. If you buy meat
or frozen food in bulk quantities, you may want a larger freezer
that can hold a lot. Otherwise, though, you may be paying more in
energy costs to keep your freezer cold when it doesn’t have very
much food to fill it. Find out whether a model is self-defrosting;
nearly all are nowadays.
Another thing to keep in mind is how to clean a particular model.
Some of the exterior casings are made of a vinyl-type material that
seems to absorb grease from adult fingers and dirt from toddler
hands. Ask how easy or hard it may be to clean a particular appliance
before you buy it. For example, you will probably have to unplug
your refrigerator and pull it out to dust or vacuum the refrigeration
coils. Make sure you can easily move the unit yourself without getting
hurt.
Don’t buy more refrigerator than you need. A gorgeous side-by-side
ice-maker model might look great in the store, but it could end
up crowding your small kitchen or sit around mostly unused if you
live alone and don’t use it much.
The final steps to making a purchasing decision might rest on the
payment options and delivery terms. This would be a good time to
ask about product warranties and replacement parts while you’re
at it, so you’ll know who to call if something goes wrong or a part
breaks.
For more information about choosing and caring for household appliances,
visit Appliance Central at http://www.appliance-central.com
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