Last month we began providing tips for buying a new refrigerator. We discussed:
- Advantages and disadvantages of various styles (top, bottom, side-by-side, French door models)
- Size (width, depth, height)
- Color and finish (black, white, slate, stainless steel, black stainless steel, matte black stainless steel)
Here are some other things to consider.
- Energy efficiency. Energy Star-certified refrigerators are more energy efficient. They may be more expensive initially, but over the life of the refrigerator you will more than make up for that with lower energy bills. Some municipalities offer rebates for Energy Star-certified models. Check your town.
- Organization features. Check for these features to make storage and access easier:
- Adjustable glass shelves that slide in and out and shelves that flip vertically from hinges to create customized space.
- Gallon-size door bins that can easily store bottles and cartons of milk, juice, and pop (or soda if that’s what you call it) without taking up shelf space.
- Humidity control drawers that have separate humidity settings to keep fruits and vegetables fresh.
- Refrigerator-width pantry drawers that offer unique temperature zones for snack foods, party trays, etc.
- Air filtration systems. A built-in carbon filter keeps the air in the refrigerator fresh.
- Smart features. Smart refrigerators can offer a variety of conveniences, such as advanced climate controls, shopping lists, and integration with home automation systems. You can access these remotely through your phone or tablet.
- Refrigerator door panels that open for additional storage built inside the door.
- Dual-cooling systems that allow freezers to circulate air separately from the refrigerator.
- Indoor ice storage. These free up freezer space by moving the ice bin from the refrigerator to the door. Some models even feature an ice bin that can tilt out.
- Programmable control pad. You can set the temperature, lock the ice and water dispenser, check the filter condition and preset the amount of water to dispense with the push of a button.
- Finger-resistant finishes. In addition to the finishes previously discussed, if you have young kids, you might want this type of special finish so you don’t always have to be wiping up after them.
Last point. If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, you’ll need a water line/ice maker connector. The water shut off valve will need to be within six feet of the refrigerator.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for Quality Plumbing Services
While Ravinia Plumbing does not sell refrigerators, our licensed plumbers can help you hook it up and assist with any plumbing issues related to it. We’ve been in business since 1928, and we’ve made a name for ourselves as one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing, sewer, HVAC, and electrical companies in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
