A household appliance that needs no introduction, the refrigerator is a staple found in just about every kitchen. As a matter of fact, most residences include a refrigerator when you move in. But what happens when you need to buy a new one? Many modern fridges are more complex than the simple "freezer on top, fridge on bottom" styles of old. To help you sort through all the models out there to choose from, we've compiled a list of top 5 best refrigerators.
We all know that a refrigerator keeps your food and produce cold, but how exactly does it do this? Essentially, a refrigerator is nothing more than a thermally insulated compartment that uses a heat pump to move heat from within to the exterior. There are three primary types of refrigerators: top-freezer, bottom-freezer, and side-by-sides. Top-freezers are the most common, simplest to use, and the least expensive. Bottom freezers are a bit more expensive, but more convenient because the most accessed area, the fridge portion, is higher off the ground. Finally, side-by-sides are even more expensive, but the form-factor is better fitting for certain kitchens.
Recommended by Consumer Reports, this Maytag refrigerator is highly rated for its performance as well as fantastic energy efficiency. Users also love the fact that it is roomy, coming with a carrying capacity of 21 cubic foot as well as quiet. It comes with relatively few extra features, but its inexpensive pricetag makes up for it. Aside from its solid performance, this refrigerator comes with an ice maker, two humidity-controlled crispers, and tempered glass shelves. Currently $779.99 on Amazon.
A Best Buy from Consumer Reports, this Haier is another top-freezer refrigerator with great temperature performance and exceptional energy efficiency. Consumer Reports lists its carrying capacity at 17.5 cubic foot. It also features gallon door storage and spillproof shelves. Currently $630.00 on Amazon.
A solid-performing bottom-freezer refrigerator, this LG refrigerator did very well in professional tests. It also features extras including a door alarm, an ice maker, and a freezer light. The 22.4 cubic foot carrying capacity also gives you quite a bit of room to store your groceries. The downside is that bottom-freezers are not only more expensive, but also less energy efficient. Currently $1169.10 at Home Depot.
The top-rated refrigerator model at Good Housekeeping, GH lauds this Samsung refrigerator's perfect temperature management and the fact that it comes with a plethora of ease-of-use features. Adjustable shelves and bins, two ice makers, various temperature control options, and an easy-open freezer door handle provides you absolute control over your refrigerator settings. Finally, a carrying capacity of almost 26 cubic feet makes it the most spacious of all the refrigerators on this list. Currently $2299 at Lowes.
Recommended by Consumer Reports, this Samsung refrigerator is the roomiest side-by-side refrigerator with 25.5 cubic feet carrying capacity. Extra features include through-door ice and water dispensers, spillproof shelves and touchpad controls. It's also one of the quietest side-by-side models, which users appreciate. Currently $1349.10 at Home Depot.
And those are our choices for the best 5 refrigerators. Be sure to check out the Wise Bread Shopping Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!
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