How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators are kitchen appliances used to keep food and drinks cold. They are commonly used in homes and in offices, hotels, and dorm rooms at colleges.
Some refrigerators have intelligent features, such as cameras and sensors. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that allow you to watch videos, browse recipes, browse family calendars and shopping lists, or leave notes for family members.
Control of Temperature
The right temperature for refrigerators keeps foods safe for storage and slows the degradation of many foods due to spoilage. This is especially important for foods like eggs and milk, which are susceptible to rotting at room temperature however, they remain stable in refrigerator temperatures. Refrigerators can also be used to store pharmaceuticals like medications or vaccines that lose their efficacy as time passes. Refrigerator monitoring systems can ensure that an medical facility, laboratory or other institution maintains the cold chain.
A refrigerator has an internal thermal insulator that helps keep its contents cooler than the surrounding air. The heat pump is used to move warm air from outside the refrigerator into an insulated compartment, where it cools to a very low temperature. The refrigerator has a control system which turns on the cooling system when its internal temperature exceeds a preset threshold. This prevents the formation of bacteria inside the refrigerator.
Each section of the refrigerator is specifically designed to serve a certain purpose. The bottom shelves are perfect for perishables, such as fresh meats and vegetables that require the minimum temperature to preserve their texture and taste. Keeping the shelves clear allows cool air to circulate through the refrigerator. A separate drawer for deli can be used to store soft cheeses and cured meats for the perfect charcuterie board.
smeg fridge have glass or stainless steel door to safeguard the interior. They also make it easier to clean. Some refrigerators come with a door alarm that can be programmed. It will alert you if the fridge freezer is left open too long. They can be programmed to alert multiple individuals and in escalating tiers depending on your requirements. They can be configured to record temperature and send graphs remotely via email or text.
Many refrigerators come equipped with thermometers however for those that don't, a freestanding appliance thermometer is an inexpensive method of monitoring the temperature of your freezer and fridge. It is essential to check the temperature of your freezer and refrigerator often, especially in the event of a power failure or if temperature settings are changed manually. The ideal is that both the fridge and freezer should be set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Capacity of Storage
The capacity of your refrigerator is a crucial aspect to consider when selecting the model that best suits your requirements. There are a variety of sizes to choose from, ranging from tiny refrigerators that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic feet, to large models that hold over 26 cubic feet. Take into consideration your family's cooking preferences and the amount of people living in your home to determine the best size for you. For two people the average of 11-13 cubic foot of refrigerator space is adequate for a household of two. For a family of three, 18 to 22 cubic feet is recommended.
Look at the depth of the fridge, as well as the space. Some models are larger than others to allow them to fit in tight spaces and not take up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth fridges are also an alternative. Their depth is similar to that of a standard kitchen cabinet front, however the handles may extend a little more. These are a great choice for those with limited counter space. They also appear more modern.
Ask about the energy consumption of the refrigerator and noise level when shopping. There are many manufacturers that offer quieter options for use in homes, and others offer refrigerators that use less energy than comparable models. Take a look at the yellow Energy Guide label on appliances to learn about the typical energy usage for a specific model. Test the model by opening and closing its doors.
A majority of modern refrigerators come with a pantry drawer, which is a full-width compartment with separate temperature controls that can be used for storing many different objects. These drawers are particularly useful to store party trays and wine, since they allow you to store them at specific temperatures. These drawers can be programmed to store wines as well as deli food items, and soft drinks, based on the model.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators consume a lot of energy. That's why it is important to have one that is energy efficient. The good news is that refrigerators are becoming more energy efficient in the past. Insulation, motors, as well as magnetic door seals have all improved over time, meaning that a newer fridge will use less power than a previous model of the same size. It is possible to cut down on the refrigerator's electricity consumption even further by buying an energy efficient model. A refrigerator that has an Energy Star rating will use much less energy than a model at least ten years old.
It is essential to consider energy efficiency for consumers with limited access to electricity grids. For homes that are not connected to the grid, refrigerators are usually among the most expensive appliances. Their high energy consumption also implies that they require huge systems of solar home systems that are out of reach for a lot of families earning less than $2 per day. The energy consumption of a refrigerator is therefore a crucial aspect in determining if it is affordable for consumers to purchase and maintain (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).
To understand how fridges function, we start with the fundamental refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools by pushing a liquid refrigerant through a sealed system: it starts as a liquid and passes through a compressor that reduces the liquid to create a vapour. This vapor is then pumped into coils located on the exterior of the fridge, where it draws the heat from the fridge, then cooling down before returning to the liquid. This process is repeated repeatedly to keep food cool as the vapor circulates through the coils.
Refrigerators are still among the most expensive items that consumers who are not connected to the grid can purchase but enhancing their energy efficiency will make them more affordable. By cutting down on the amount of energy they consume, a refrigerator can be powered by less energy and lower overall system costs for consumers. Depending on the size, style, and features of the refrigerator, the energy savings will vary. For instance, ice makers and through-the-door water dispensers increase cost, but they can also significantly increase the refrigerator's energy consumption which, in turn, increases the amount of SHS needed to power it.
Maintenance
The life expectancy of a refrigerator can be significantly improved by regular maintenance and inspection. This can be done by checking the condenser coils, the ice maker, defrost drain and the gasket seal on the door to ensure it's in good shape. Cleaning and changing water filters is essential. These simple tasks can help you prolong the life of your refrigerator and also save money on your energy costs.
The most simple and efficient refrigerator maintenance task is to wash the inside of your refrigerator frequently. This means throwing away old food items and wiping down shelves and crispers, walls and the inside of the doors of your refrigerator and freezer. This will eliminate unpleasant odors as well as reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses. It is recommended to check regularly the temperature of your refrigerator with a fridge thermometer. If your refrigerator is not properly maintained could experience temperature fluctuations, which could cause food spoilage and an increase in your electric bill.
It is also important to clean the condenser coils in your refrigerator at least twice per year to get rid of any dirt, hair, dust, and other particles that might have been accumulating. These coils, which are essentially radiators that help to remove heat from the refrigerator, are located at the bottom or back of your appliance. If they're dirty, they can't dissipate heat as effectively and your refrigerator will require more energy to run.
Examine the seal of your refrigerator that is designed to create an airtight seal between your fridge and the ductwork in your home. It is crucial to keep your fridge's contents cool. However, over time, the seal can be damaged by greasy fingerprints and sticky syrups. To keep the gasket of your refrigerator in good shape, you should regularly wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Lastly, it is a good idea to clean the drip pan, which is normally situated under the compressor unit. This pan is used for collecting the water from the refrigerator's defrost process. It is recommended to clean it frequently to prevent the development of mold and unpleasant odors.