How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators are kitchen appliances used to keep food and drinks cold. They are used in homes, offices, hotels and college dorms.
Certain refrigerators come with smart features, like sensors and cameras. Others have touchscreens to allow you to watch videos, search for recipes, look up family calendars and shopping lists or even leave notes for family members.
Temperature Control
The right temperature for refrigerators ensures food is safe to store, slowing the deterioration of many foods due to spoilage. This is particularly important with food items like eggs and milk which are susceptible to rotting at ambient temperatures, but remain stable at refrigerator levels. Refrigerators can also be used to store pharmaceuticals, such as drugs or vaccines that lose their efficacy over time. Refrigerator monitoring systems can ensure that an medical facility, laboratory or any other institution maintains the cold chain.
A refrigerator is equipped with an internal thermal insulation to keep its contents colder than the surrounding air. It makes use of an energy source to transport warm air from the refrigerator into an insulated compartment, where it becomes very cold. The refrigerator has a controlled system which turns on the cooling system when its internal temperature exceeds a preset threshold. This prevents bacteria from forming inside the refrigerator.
Each compartment of the fridge is specifically designed to serve a certain purpose. The bottom shelves are great for perishables, such as fresh meats and vegetables that require the minimum temperature to preserve their texture and taste. The shelves should be kept clean to allow cool air to circulate within the refrigerator. A separate drawer for deli can be used to store soft cheeses and cured meats for the perfect charcuterie platter.
Refrigerators also feature glass or stainless steel doors to protect the interior and allow for easy cleaning. Some refrigerators also include door alarms that can be programmed to alert you if the doors to the freezer or fridge are closed for too long. You can set them to alert multiple people and in increments based on your requirements. You can set them to send temperature graphs via email or text.
Most refrigerators have built-in thermometers, but for those that don't, an independent appliance thermometer can be a cheap method of monitoring the temperature of your freezer and fridge. It is essential to check the temperature of the freezer and fridge often, especially when there is a power failure or if you have manually changed the temperature setting. Ideal temperature for both the refrigerator and freezer is 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Capacity for Storage
The capacity of your refrigerator is an important factor when choosing the model that will best suit your requirements. There are a variety of sizes to choose from including small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic foot to large models that have a capacity of more than 26 cubic feet. To figure out the size you need, consider your family's cooking habits and the number of people in your home. For two people the average of 11-13 cubic foot of refrigerator space is adequate and 18 to 22 cubic feet is recommended.
In addition to considering the space inside, look at the depth of your refrigerator. Certain models are more deep than others, which allows them to fit in tight spaces and not take up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, having an overall depth that is the same as the standard kitchen cabinet front (though handles may protrude slightly more). They are a great choice for areas where counter space is a problem and also look sleeker than traditional fridges.
Ask about the refrigerator's energy usage and the level of noise when you are shopping. Many manufacturers offer quieter models for residential use, and certain models consume less energy than similar models. Look for the yellow Energy Guide label on appliances to learn about the typical energy consumption for a specific model. Also, test the model's operation by opening and closing the doors.
A majority of modern refrigerators come with a pantry drawer, which is a full-width area with separate temperature controls that can be used for storing many different things. These drawers are ideal to store party trays and wine, as they permit you to store them at specific temperatures. Depending on the model, these drawers may include pre-programmed settings to store wines, deli meats and soft drinks.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators use a lot of energy. That's why it's crucial to have one that is energy efficient. The good news is that refrigerators have become more energy efficient over time. The insulation, motors, and magnetic door seals of a newer refrigerator use less energy than a previous model similar to its size. You can cut down on the electricity consumption of your refrigerator more by purchasing a model that is highly energy efficient. A refrigerator that has an Energy Star rating will use less energy than a model that is at least ten years old.
Efficiency in energy is crucial for those who have no access to the grid for electricity. Refrigerators are typically one of the most expensive appliances for households that are off grid Their high energy consumption means that they require huge solar home systems (SHS) that are unaffordable for families earning less than $2 a day. The annual energy consumption of a refrigerator is a key factor to determine whether it's economically feasible for consumers to purchase and operate. (PATH and WHO 2013 ). McCarney et. al. 2012).
To understand how fridges work it is important to understand the fundamental refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools by pushing a liquid refrigerant through a sealed device: it starts as a liquid, then is pushed through a compressor that compresses the liquid into a vapour. The vapor then flows through coils outside the refrigerator, and draws heat out of it. It then cools down, and turns back to liquid. This process repeats repeatedly, keeping food cold as the vapor circulates through the coils.
While refrigerators are among the most expensive appliances for off grid consumers, increasing their energy efficiency makes them more affordable. By reducing the amount of energy they consume, a refrigerator can be powered by a smaller SHS and reduce overall system costs for consumers. Energy savings vary depending on the size, design and other features of a refrigerator. buy fridge uk and ice makers through the door, for instance, add cost, but can increase the energy consumption of the refrigerator, which in turn increases the amount of SHS required to run it.
Maintenance
The life expectancy of a refrigerator can be greatly increased by regular maintenance and inspection. Check the condenser, ice maker and defrost drain. Also, make sure you check the seals on the door. Cleaning and replacing the water filter is also essential. These easy maintenance tasks will ensure the longevity of your refrigerator and save money on your energy costs.
Cleaning the inside of your fridge regularly is the simplest and most efficient way to keep it in good condition. This means throwing away old food items, cleaning shelves and crispers, walls and interior of your refrigerator's doors. This will eliminate unpleasant odors as well as reduce the chance of contracting food-borne illnesses. It is also recommended to periodically check the temperature of your refrigerator with a fridge thermometer. Refrigerators that aren't maintained may experience temperature fluctuations that can result in food waste and more expensive electricity bills.
The condenser coils in your refrigerator should also be cleaned twice a year. This will get rid of any hair, dirt, grime or other debris that has built up. The coils are situated on the rear or bottom of your appliance. They're essentially radiator-like parts that help remove heat from your refrigerator. These coils aren't able to release heat as efficiently when they're dirty. Your refrigerator will use more energy to run.
Another thing you should be checking regularly is your refrigerator's gasket that is designed to create an air-tight seal between your fridge and your home's ductwork. It is essential to keep the contents of your fridge cool. However in time, the seal could be worn down by sticky and greasy fingerprints. syrups. To keep your fridge's gasket in good working order, frequently clean it with a damp cloth.
It is also a good idea to clean the drip tray, which is located generally under the compressor unit of the refrigerator. The pan is used to collect water from the defrost cycle and should be wiped down regularly to avoid the accumulation of odors or mold.