In household appliance stores, you can find refrigerators of all brands, sizes, functional features. Among different price categories, the assortment is also wide. Which refrigerator to choose? What features should I pay attention to, and which brand should I prefer? You will learn about this in our article. We will also present a rating of popular models.
Parameter selection
Before going to the store, determine the installation location. You must understand which technique will go into the designated area and which will not. Please note that there is an outlet nearby. How to install the refrigerator, read the previous article.
Let's consider each item in more detail.
Dimensions
It will be unpleasant if, after delivery, it turns out that the equipment does not fit in the doorway or in a prepared place in the kitchen, so measure the distances clearly. Small refrigerators differ in height from 1 to 1.5 meters and a width of up to 60 cm. They are often used for minibars, hotels, offices.
Standard models reach 1.7-1.8 meters in height and 60 cm wide. It fits perfectly into a kitchen with an area of 8-10 m².
Units of the European standard are suitable for large, spacious rooms. Height reaches 2 meters and a width of 80 cm.
Select the appliance in height so that it matches the rest of the kitchen.
Useful volume
The volume of the cameras depends on how many products you load in them, and therefore on the number of people in the family.
Asian type "C" has a capacity of 200-250 liters, which is suitable for 1-2 people. The case is rounded in shape, the freezer compartment is on top.
For 3-4 people, a volume of 260-350 liters is quite suitable. Such refrigerators belong to group “B”, their freezer is located below, consists of several drawers and shelves. With the upper placement of the freezer, the displacement can vary from 50 to 140 liters.
Group “D” includes American-style appliances with a huge capacity of 350-800 liters. Such volumes are useful in production or for a very large family. The freezer and refrigerator compartment are located in parallel.
Location and number of cameras
Today, manufacturers offer several varieties:
- Single chamber - a classic of the genre. Budget and easy to use option. The downside is that the freezer forms a strong frost on the walls, so the appliance must often be defrosted.
- Two-chamber - the most common. There are upper and lower freezers. The case can be equipped with French Door - French door. There is a large freezer below, a refrigerator compartment with two doors on top. Side-by-side refrigerators are two-door.
- Multi-chamber - from three to six compartments. They differ in freshness zones, where you can store fish, vegetables, greens without freezing, but the products at the same time retain their original appearance.
Cooling and defrosting method
The cooling system can be different, it is important to choose the one that suits you. Types:
- Compression. The refrigerant circulates through the circuit under compressor pressure. The most popular, with the strongest noise level.
- Absorption. The refrigerant is heated by the heat exchanger, which causes it to circulate. This technique consumes more electricity than in the first case, but it works a little quieter.
- Thermoelectric. It is installed mainly in mini-refrigerators. Cooling occurs due to the plates, which are heated by the supply of current. The quietest devices in operation, but the energy consumption is higher than the rest.
Defrosting in Soviet units was carried out manually. Modern models are equipped with a drip system or No Frost. In the first case, the condensate freezes and then thaws on the back wall, after which it drains into the pan. In the Nou Frost system, cold air is distributed by the fan through the chamber, so less moisture is collected on the walls. Despite this, the technique also needs defrosting, although less often.
One or two motors
Most often, refrigerators are equipped with a single motor. Modern household units include the “Vacation” function. In this mode, the refrigerator uses a minimum amount of energy.
Convenient appliances with two compressors, each of which is responsible for the refrigerator and freezer. In addition, one part can be turned off and washed, while the second will not stop working.
Climate class
The symbols on the case will tell you at what temperature the equipment can be operated. The most popular in Russian latitudes is class N (+ 16-32 degrees). For details, see the table and read the article on climate classes.
Important! If the refrigerator breaks and it is proved that it was used in the wrong conditions, you may be deprived of the warranty. Therefore, experts advise paying attention to designations.
Energy efficiency
The equipment is powered by electricity and works without interruptions. Therefore, it is important to choose an energy-efficient model. What to look for? On classes:
- A, A +, A ++ are the most economical. Only 55% of the nominal amount of required energy is consumed.
- In - consumption is 75%.
- C - 75-90%.
- D - 100%.
To find out exactly how much consumption per year is, look at the data sheet. Sometimes there are stickers on the case:
To prevent the refrigerator from overspending electricity, try to install it away from heating appliances, stoves, and ovens. Otherwise, it heats up, and the compressor operates with a vengeance.
Type of management
The simplest electromechanical control is presented in low-cost models. The regulator rotates manually, which allows you to control the temperature in the compartment.
The electronic type assumes the presence of a display, a touch panel. You can set the temperature on them, choose one of the functions.
A separate category includes remote control, which is presented in Candy. You can “lead” through the application anywhere.
We examined the main characteristics that are important during operation. Of course, going to the store, you will first of all appreciate the design, the manufacturer. An important factor is the price category, as well as the placement method - built-in or freestanding.
What to look for
When studying technology more meticulously, look at:
- Housing coating quality. It should not be scratched, sagging, peeling paint.
- Shelves. Lattices are considered the best option since air circulates well and contents are stored longer. Often you can find shelves made of glass and plastic.
- Seals on the door. The density of the fit of the door to the body depends on its quality.
- Pay attention to the smell. If you smell cheap plastic, rubber, choose another option.
- Lighting. It is much more convenient when the lamps are on the side. They do not overlap the dishes, so the products are better seen.
- Pens. If there is a minimum of space in the kitchen, choose recessed recess handles. This will help not to cling to the sticking holders.
Well, if the door can be re-hung, then regardless of placement, you can easily open the camera.
Features and Technology
To choose the best technique, choose the functionality that you are really going to use.
- Antibacterial coating. This is a good way to get rid of bad smells. The walls are covered with inorganic silver; in some models antibacterial filters are installed. This approach prevents the growth of bacteria.
- Door sensor. If the camera is not tightly closed, a beep sounds. This allows you to react in time and avoid rapid wear of the motor, which is forced to work hard when it gets into the warm air.
- Super freeze. Allows you to quickly freeze pledged products. The temperature drops to -24 degrees so quickly that it allows you to maintain taste and nutrients. In some units, the function is disabled manually, in others, automation is activated.
- Temperature retention when there is a power outage. Latest models can maintain temperatures up to 22 hours.
- Ice machine. A separate box with forms where water is automatically or manually poured. As a result, you will always have fresh ice for drinks.
- Door to door. Behind the main door is another. This compartment is used for products that are used most often. So the user does not need to search for everything necessary.
The most reliable brand
Well-known firms have earned a reputation for years. Therefore, there are brands that are most popular among users.
- Liebherr.
- Bosch
- Samsung
- LG.
- Atlant.
- Gorenje.
- Candy
- Zanussi.
- Beko.
- Whirpool.
- Hotpoint-Ariston.
- Electrolux
What brands are the most reliable, according to users? We have compiled a rating of the best refrigerators: both small and cheap, and large and expensive.
2017 refrigerator rating
We present the rating of popular models in 2017, according to customer reviews.
Hansa FM050.4
Single chamber refrigerator with electromechanical control. Inexpensive and compact, it can be built into furniture; its dimensions are only 47 × 44.7 × 49.6 cm. It consumes 106 kW per year.
The upper freezer is defrosted manually, the lower is equipped with a drip system. Capacity is 46 liters. Shelves are made of glass. The door can be re-hung for easy opening. Noise characteristics reach 35 dB.
Cost - from 5 000 rubles.
Anastasia
FM050.4 works silently, freezes very well. The kit comes with a pallet, if it is placed under the freezer, the contents will also freeze. The capacity is small, perfect for storing soft drinks in the summer. The two front legs are height adjustable. I chose to give, I liked it. One minus is that the shelves from the door fall out, you need to constantly put them in place.
Liebherr Tsl 1414
Small-sized equipment, however, is much more capacious than the previous version. Case dimensions: 50.1x62x85 cm. It is interesting that it has a climatic class SN, ST, which allows operation in rooms without air conditioning. For example, in the cottages.
Energy class - A +, consumes 177 kW per year. The freezer section is located on top, it needs manual defrosting. The total volume is 122 liters. The ability to maintain temperature during a power outage - 10 hours.
Price - from 14,000 rubles.
Ekaterina
I was looking for a small unit, because I live alone and rarely eat at home. All other similar models look like Soviet ones, and Liebher has a nice and modern design. It works quietly, it freezes well. The only thing is that the upper shelf is not functional, practically nothing fits there. I recommend to buy for bachelors or small families.
Bosch KGN39SB10
A two-chamber appliance with a lower freezer compartment. Case dimensions: 60x64x200 cm. There are options for white and black.
Features:
- Air Fresh Filter - A carbon filter destroys odors and bacteria.
- Eco mode saves energy. In the refrigerator, the temperature is +6 degrees, in the freezer -16 ° C.
- Holiday mode will help to save extra kilowatts while you are on vacation. In one compartment, the temperature is + 14 ° C, in the other -18 ° C.
- Economical LED backlight.
- No Frost - freeze without ice on the walls. Thanks to the ventilation holes, cold air is evenly distributed throughout the chamber.
- Quick cooling allows you to maintain optimal temperature in the compartment.
- An optional Big Box container with a height of 29 cm holds large products.
It consumes 383 kW per year. When the light is turned off, it keeps cold for up to 18 hours. The total volume is 315 liters. Operation class - SN, T (normal and tropical conditions).
Cost - from 55 000 rubles.
Vasiliy
Bosch maintains its reputation. Functional and roomy KGN39SB10 fits perfectly into the kitchen. Products last longer due to freshness areas. The door is equipped with a sensor; a signal is emitted when the cover is not tight. Management is simple, electronic. There is a small minus: the side walls differ in color from the doors.
Atlant XM 6023-031
Affordable and roomy model with a volume of 359 liters. Two chambers, drip defrosting. Each compressor has its own compressor, so when you turn off one compartment for cleaning, the other will work. This is a great choice for those who like to freeze for the future - the volume of the freezer section is 154 liters. It is divided into transparent plastic boxes.
Energy class - A (391 kW per year). Dimensions: 60x63x195 cm. Electromechanical control. The “Super Freeze” option is enabled, as well as the door sound. The noise level is small - 40 dB.
Price - from 16 000 rubles.
Nikolay
The roomy Atlant model pleased us: 2 compressors work quietly. For a year, only once defrosted the freezer, it works perfectly. Some write that plastic shelves are uncomfortable, or a tray of only 8 eggs. I think that these are trifles, you need to be careful with any plastic. I am satisfied with the purchase.
Samsung RH-60 H90203L
Model with a double door - Side by Side. Case dimensions reach 91.2 × 72.1 × 177.4 cm. Total capacity - 605 liters.
Features:
- Show Case - frequently used products with easy accessibility. The compartment is divided into 6 parts, where you can place drinks, ready meals. Additionally, each box has three areas where each family member will find everything he needs.
- Door with Metal Cooling partition. Even with frequent opening, the plate keeps a cold in the chamber.
- Samsung Food Showcase - stylish and modern design will decorate your kitchen. Recessed handles confirm the ergonomics of the device.
- All-around Cooling system - at each compartment level there are openings for distributing cold flow.
- Shelves are raised, pulled out, folded. Now you can place any products and use all zones.
- Large containers hold large meat products.
Electronic control with display. Shelves are made of glass.
Cost - from 120 000 rubles.
Sergei
The two-door Samung looks very modern. Previously, there was a similar refrigerator, there is nothing to compare. In the RH-60 H90203L, the case is quite compact, despite the large capacity. I liked the function “Door to door”, all guests are surprised that each compartment is separated by a door. The lower part was allocated for the child, yogurt is conveniently taken out, no need to stand on a stool. In the freezer, the frost is perfectly preserved. I want to say that technology is worth the money.
LG GR-N309LLB
A two-compartment refrigerator can be integrated into furniture. Case dimensions: 55.4 × 54.4 × 177.5 cm. Electricity consumption is 330 kW per year (class A).
Features:
- Total No Frost Technology. You can defrost and clean the device once every six months.
- Multi Air Flow - Multi-threaded cooling provides even distribution of cold.
- Miracle Zone freshness zone with a separate temperature controller: -1 ° С (fish), -3 ° С (meat), + 2 ° С (fruits).
- Moist Balance Crisper Fruit Storage Container. Its lid has cells that accumulate moisture and evaporate it, preventing it from settling on products.
- Superfrost allows you to save maximum nutrients.
- Ice container with swivel mechanism.
The total volume is 245 liters. Noise level - 37 dB.
Price - from 53 000 rubles.
Svetlana
After the repair in the kitchen, we decided to take the built-in refrigerator. “Algie” liked the functionality and spaciousness, as well as positive reviews. I rarely defrost, only when I need to wash, although the manufacturer claims that Nou Frost does not need a defrost. The panel is convenient to select the desired function. I advise everyone who wants to purchase a high-quality appliance and hide it in furniture.
Now you know how to choose the right refrigerator for your home, what to look for. User reviews and our tips will help you draw conclusions.