How to Choose a Refrigerator Refrigerators (sometimes called a fridge) are kitchen appliances that keep food and beverages cold. They are used at home as well as in offices, hotels, and dorm rooms at colleges. Some refrigerators are equipped with smart features, such as cameras and sensors. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that let you watch videos, browse recipes, browse family calendars and shopping lists, or even leave notes for family members. Temperature Control The ideal temperature for your refrigerator ensures food safety and will prevent the food from spoiling. This is especially important for foods such as eggs and milk, which could quickly rot when exposed ambient temperatures but remain stable in the refrigerator. Refrigerators can also be used to store pharmaceuticals, such as drugs or vaccines which lose their effectiveness with time. Refrigerator monitoring systems can help ensure that the medical facility, laboratory or any other establishment maintains the cold chain. The internal thermal insulator of a refrigerator keeps its contents cooler than the surrounding air. It makes use of a heat pump to move warm air out of the refrigerator into an insulated compartment where it becomes very cold. The refrigerator is equipped with a control system that turns on the cooling system if its internal temperature is higher than the threshold set by the manufacturer. This prevents the formation of bacteria in the refrigerator. Each refrigerator zone is designed for a different purpose. The bottom shelves are ideal for storing perishable items such as fresh meats and vegetables that require the minimum temperatures to preserve their flavor and texture. Clearing the shelves allows cool air to circulate throughout the refrigerator. Store soft cheeses and cured items in a separate deli drawer to create the perfect charcuterie platter. Refrigerators also come with glass or stainless steel doors to protect the interior and allow for easy cleaning. Some refrigerators come with a door alarm that can be programmed. It will alert you if the fridge or freezer is left open for too long. They can be set to alert multiple individuals and in escalating tiers depending on your requirements. You can also set them to send temperature graphs via text or email. Freestanding appliance thermometers are a cheap alternative to the built-in thermometers that are found in most refrigerators. It is important to monitor the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator frequently, particularly after a power outage or when temperature settings are changed manually. The ideal is that both the fridge and freezer should be set at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Capacity of Storage The capacity of the refrigerator is a crucial factor when it comes to choosing the right model for your needs. There are a variety of sizes to pick from, ranging from tiny refrigerators that can hold a volume of less than 15 cubic feet to large models that hold over 26 cubic feet. To determine the size you require, take into consideration your family's cooking habits and the number of people living in your home. For two people, an average of 11 to 13 cubic feet of refrigerator space is sufficient and 18 to 22, cubic feet is recommended. Look at the depth of the fridge, in addition to the overall space. Some models are shallower than others, allowing them to fit into small spaces without taking up too much space under the counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option. Their depth is comparable to that of a standard kitchen cabinet front, however the handles may extend a little further. These are a great choice for those with limited counter space. They also appear sleeker. When shopping for a refrigerator, inquire about the level of noise and energy consumption. Many manufacturers offer quieter refrigerators for residential use. Other refrigerators have less energy consumption than comparable models. You can find out the energy consumption average of a refrigerator by looking at the yellow Energy Guide label. Test the model by opening and closing its doors. The pantry drawer is usually an entire width of the refrigerator with separate temperature controls. It can be used to store various items. These drawers can be used to store party trays as well as wine and other things at a specific temperature. Depending on the model, these drawers could have pre-programmed settings for wines and deli meats as well as soft drinks. Energy Efficiency Refrigerators use a lot of energy. This is why it's important to choose one that is energy efficient. Over time refrigerators have become more energy efficient. Motors, insulation, and magnetic door seals have all improved over time, so a newer fridge will use less energy than a model older in the same size. It is possible to cut down on the refrigerator's electricity consumption even further by purchasing a highly energy efficient model. A refrigerator that is Energy Star rated will consume much less energy than an equivalent model 10 years old or more. It is crucial to think about energy efficiency for consumers with limited access to electricity grids. For homes that are not connected to the grid, refrigerators are often among the most expensive appliances. Their high energy consumption also means that they require huge systems of solar home systems that are out of reach for families earning less than $2 per day. The annual energy consumption of a refrigerator is a key element in determining whether it's affordable for consumers to buy and operate. (PATH and WHO 2013 ). McCarney and. al., 2012). We'll begin by explaining the basic refrigeration process. A refrigerator cools itself by pushing a refrigerant fluid through a sealed system. It begins as a liquid, and passes through the compressor which makes it compress into the form of a vapor. The vapor then flows through coils on the outside of the fridge, where it draws heat from the fridge, cooling down before returning to liquid. This process repeats repeatedly, keeping food cold as the vapor moves through the coils. fridge uk are still among the most expensive appliances that consumers who live off grid can buy, but improving their energy efficiency can make them more affordable. By cutting down on the amount of energy they consume, a refrigerator can be powered by less energy and lower the overall system cost for consumers. Based on the size, style, and features of the refrigerator, energy savings will differ. For instance, ice-makers and through-the-door water dispensers add cost, but they can also significantly increase the energy use and, in turn, increase the SHS required to power it. Maintenance Regular maintenance and inspection can greatly increase the life expectancy of your refrigerator. Check the condenser unit, defrost drain and ice maker. Also, look for seals on the door. Cleaning and replacing water filter is also important. These easy maintenance tasks will aid in prolonging the life of your refrigerator and also save money on your energy costs. Cleaning the inside of your refrigerator regularly is the easiest and most efficient method to keep it clean. This includes throwing away old food items, cleaning shelves and crispers, walls, and the interior of the refrigerator's doors. This can reduce the chance of contracting foodborne illness and unpleasant smells. A fridge thermometer is a good option to monitor the temperature of your refrigerator regularly. A refrigerator that isn't properly maintained may be subject to temperature fluctuations that could cause food spoilage as well as a higher electric bill. The condenser coils inside your refrigerator should be cleaned at least at least twice a year. This will remove any dirt, grime, hair or other debris that has accumulated. These coils are located on the bottom or rear of your appliance and are basically radiator-like components that assist in helping remove heat from your refrigerator. These coils aren't able to release heat as efficiently when they are dirty. Your refrigerator will consume more energy to run. Another thing to check often is the gasket in your refrigerator that is designed to create an air-tight seal between your refrigerator and your home's ductwork. This is vital to ensure that the contents of your fridge stay cold, but over time the seal could wear down by greasy fingerprints, sticky syrups and dripping drinks. Clean the seal of your fridge with a an abrasive towel to keep it in good shape. In the end, it's an ideal idea to clean the drip pan, which is typically located under the refrigerator's compressor unit. The drip pan is responsible to collect water from the refrigerator's defrost process. It is recommended to clean it regularly to avoid the development of mold and unpleasant odors.
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