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OUT How to choose the best refrigerator for you BRANDPOINT
Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, replacing a broken unit or upgrading your full appliance suite, looking for a new refrigerator can feel overwhelming with all the options available—but it doesn’t have to be! Check out this list of tips and tricks to help you keep your cool as you navigate your shopping experience—from design and finish to features and capacity, you’ll have everything you need to find the right refrigerator for you. MEASURE UP: MAKING SURE IT FITS YOUR KITCHEN. When measuring for a refrigerator, make sure to measure the cutout size, and not just the size of your old refrigerator. Pay attention to height, depth and surrounding spaces in your kitchen. Size options include counter depth, which lines up with your countertops, and standard depth, which offers more capacity and extends past your countertops. When thinking about fridge type, there are two options to consider: freestanding refrigerators simply slide into your kitchen CHEERS TO YOU: ASSESS YOUR cutout for ease and convenience, whereas BEVERAGE NEEDS. built-in refrigerators are installed completely Choosing a refrigerator that keeps your flush with your cabinetry. beverages at the right temperature is key, from a fast, reliable ice dispenser to speOPEN THE DOOR TO A BETTER cialty beverage storage within the fridge. KITCHEN: CHOOSING A TYPE. With the Bosch QuickIcePro System, you Determine the type of refrigerator that can avoid frequent runs to the grocery store works best for your kitchen space, including to keep your drinks ice-cold. Or, with the door configuration. You can choose French Refreshment Center, there’s nothing to door bottom mount (double fridge doors on “wine” about—it’s like a wine cellar for your top, freezer on bottom), Side by Side (fridge refrigerator, storing bottles at the optimal on the right and freezer on the left), Bottom temperature and humidity. Freezer (single fridge door on top, freezer on bottom), among others. If you have a narrow AMERICA’S NEXT TOP (FRIDGE) kitchen, choose a refrigerator type and size MODEL: CHOOSE A DESIGN THAT that allows the refrigerator and freezer doors FITS YOUR STYLE. to open all the way. From timeless stainless steel to bold Capacity pro tip: Some fridge models are black stainless steel, choose the finish that more suitable for certain household sizes. makes the right statement in your kitchen. French door refrigerators are optimal for Stainless steel offers a classic/traditional feel; larger household sizes, as they offer greater black stainless steel is stylish and functional; capacity, while a small 24-inch fridge with custom panel ready refrigerators install fully a bottom freezer might be better for smaller flush for clean lines and a uniform style. households. Some refrigerators are even finished with 46 | DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES
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premium glass over brushed stainless steel—a great option for a sleeker look. YOUR SAVING GRACE: CHOOSE ENERGY-SAVING APPLIANCES. Sustainability is key to a forever home. Be on the lookout for appliances that are energy efficient, saving both the environment and your wallet. Since your fridge will be running 24/7, select a model that is ENERGY STAR® certified. Some ENERGY STAR® certified refrigerators feature high-efficiency compressors, generating less heat/energy, and an Eco Mode, which automatically adjusts temperatures in the appliance. BACK TO THE BASICS: KEEPING IT FRESH. Consider how your refrigerator can help you keep food cold and fresh while limiting food waste. First, think about your typical trip to the grocery store. What perishables do you usually buy, or want to buy? The items in your bag may influence the interior layout and shelving options you’ll want in a fridge—be sure to choose one with greater storage flexibility. For example, a large, “smart” storage compartment is best for fruit and vegetable lovers. The FarmFresh System from Bosch keeps produce fresher, longer, by automatically adjusting the humidity and temperature based on the food setting selected. Wide gallon door bins are best for families that buy multiple milk jugs. A colder chiller drawer is the perfect spot for meat and fish. For smaller items and hard-to-place, tall bottles, opt for a fridge that offers adjustable shelving to maximize space. November 2021
