Is it time to do some kitchen refreshing? Maybe you’re doing a total remodel, or you want to replace some old appliances that aren’t doing the job anymore.
Either way, it’s time to start looking at the home and garden store to see what you can find.
When you’re looking into buying new refrigerators, though, it can be confusing. There are so many options. Some look hyper-modern and others are more like what you’re used to. When did we start putting tablets on refrigerators, anyway?
If you get overwhelmed looking at all of your choices (we did), you’re in the right place. We want to help you narrow it down. Keep reading for a few factors that you should keep in mind when you’re making your next refrigerator purchase.
1. What’s Your Budget?
The budget is, unfortunately, the first thing that you need to keep in mind. Have you made a budget for your kitchen remodeling project? Time to start!
There are refrigerators for every new refrigerator budget, but you may need to be flexible when it comes to extra features, colors, or even refrigerator brands.
This is also a good time to keep in mind what things are “must-haves” and what things are “like-to-haves”. Do you need an ice maker? You may be giving up a red fridge. Figure out what’s important to you and stick with it.
2. What Size Do You Need?
Before you get a new refrigerator you’re going to need to take some measurements. How big is the one that you have at home? How much space is there for a new one? If you have a “cubby” for your fridge, make sure to take accurate measurements up and down, side to side, and for the depth.
Also, measure the inside of the refrigerator and decide if that amount of space is okay for you. Do you want a refrigerator with more room in the freezer, or more drawer space? Are you happy with what you have?
Take these measurements and your measuring tape with you when you’re looking at other refrigerators. It may seem excessive, but it’s better to spend too much time measuring than to get your new refrigerator home just to realize that it won’t fit in your kitchen.
3. What Style Works for You?
If you’ve never bought your own refrigerator before you may not even realize that there are multiple refrigerator styles available to you.
The one that most people are used to is the top freezer refrigerator. These are the ones with the freezer behind a small top door and the main fridge behind a larger bottom door. You also may be used to the side-by-side refrigerator which has the refrigerator section on the right and the freezer on the left with more equal spaces.
There are also bottom-freezer refrigerators where there’s a large freezer drawer in the bottom with a large refrigerator area in the “main” part.
French door refrigerators can be similar to a mix between side-by-side refrigerators and bottom-freezer refrigerators as they open outwards but the entire “main” portion is refrigerator space while the freezer pulls out from the bottom. Some french door refrigerators still have the refrigerated section on the right and the frozen on the left.
This doesn’t even begin to cover a variety of mini-fridges or the various types of finishes and doors that refrigerators can have.
In other words, do your research before just sticking with what’s old and comfortable. You have so many options!
4. Are You Looking for Special Features?
Refrigerators aren’t just for keeping food cold anymore. There are so many things that your refrigerator can do!
Some refrigerators are smart, meaning that they have modern technology implanted right into them to make your life that much easier. Who doesn’t want to check the weather from their fridge?
Many refrigerators are outfitted with ice makers and dispensers, making them handy for fetching water and ice quickly. You’ll need to keep up with filtration, but filters can be bought for any model to make that easy. Try these refrigerator water filters!
If it’s important that your refrigerator has digital controls for temperature, add that to your list as well.
You’ll be certain to find a refrigerator that ticks off all of your boxes if your budget is flexible enough.
5. Do Looks Matter?
While the style of your new fridge is an issue of practicality, there’s nothing wrong with caring about appearances. Many people are happy with the standard white or chrome refrigerators, but how do you feel?
Are you interested in a fun pop of color in your kitchen? Maybe you’re interested in a glass-front fridge that’s sure to be difficult to clean but incredibly classy. It’s possible that none of this matters to you at all and you want something that will cool and freeze your food without any trouble, looks aside.
Decide whether you’re considering aesthetics in your hunt before you get started.
6. How Does It Fit Into Your Overall Design?
If this is part of a larger renovation project, how does the fridge fit in? Even if you find your perfect, hot pink, french door refrigerator, does it work with the aesthetic of the rest of your kitchen?
There’s nothing wrong with using your fridge as a statement piece, but if you want a cohesive space it’s best to make it blend. Compare the refrigerators with the colors and styles that are already present in your kitchen. It can be helpful to keep a photo of your kitchen with you while you’re shopping for this purpose.
Buying New Refrigerators? No Problem
When we’re looking into buying new refrigerators there’s a lot to take in at the store. How can we even narrow down our choices?
Make sure to keep your measurements on hand, be clear on what you’re looking for, and don’t forget to keep your current kitchen in mind. Soon you’ll be taking home the perfect refrigerator for you.
For more helpful advice articles on lifestyle, housewares, and more, check out the rest of what we have to offer!
