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Stock refrigerator prices today start around $700 and, depending on configuration and features, range up to $4,500, Hailey says. “In addition to budget, buyers need to begin by knowing how much space they have to work with. A totally new kitchen or major remodel may allow for one of the wider, taller models while a replace-inthe-existing-space need will be more limiting size-wise.”

Built-in refrigerators

Made to fit flush with cabinets and counters, built-in refrigerators come in bottom-freezer, side-by-side and French-door styles. Pricey, they are usually tall (upward of 85 inches) and wide (up to 48 inches), with claimed capacities of 29 cubic feet and more. Some come ready for front panels that can make them seem to disappear into the kitchen cabinetry. Another built-in option is a column refrigerator, which forgoes a freezer compartment to maximize fresh-food storage and is typically paired with a matching freezer unit.

Buyers designing spacious gourmet kitchens may wish to consider commercial-grade Sub-Zero units— beginning around $7,000 in either their traditional stainless steel or “panel ready” option for the ultimate built-in look.

A refrigerator is a significant purchase these days, so it’s wise to shop around before taking the polar plunge. Consumer Reports offers a Refrigerator Buyer’s Guide that summarizes their independent test results.

How to keep your fridge clean

Use these tips from The Home Depot to get started with your refrigerator spring cleaning.

STEP 1: Unplug the refrigerator, which saves energy while doors are open. If you are cleaning the freezer section, let the walls warm while working on the fridge section.

STEP 2: Remove all food, putting the most temperaturesensitive items into coolers with frozen foods as “ice.” Toss outdated leftovers.

STEP 3: Remove drawers and shelves; wash them with warm water and dish soap, rinse and dry.

STEP 4: Use a vacuum to suck up crumbs and other loose debris.

STEP 5: Use an all-purpose cleaner or cloth soaked in baking soda water to wipe down all inside surfaces. Baking soda paste will loosen caked-on spills and tough stains.

STEP 6: Give surfaces a final wipe-down with baking soda water. Allow to dry. Wipe off top surface.

STEP 7: Replace washed and dried shelves and drawers.

STEP 8: Plug in unit and place food back inside, reorganizing as needed.

STEP 9: Close doors, then clean and polish outside surfaces and handles.

Note that it is wise to periodically pull your refrigerator out of its niche, vacuum the floor underneath and any exposed coils. Be sure fridge is unplugged while cleaning coils, compressors and any exposed wiring. ✦