What is Refrigerator?
A refrigerator (colloquially fridge) consists of a thermally insulated compartment and a heat pump (mechanical, electronic or chemical) that transfers heat from the inside of the fridge to its external environment so that the inside of the fridge is cooled to a temperature below the room temperature.
The Purpose of Refrigeration:
The fundamental reason for having a refrigerator is to keep food cold. Cold temperatures help food stay fresh longer. The basic idea behind refrigeration is to slow down the activity of bacteria (which all food contains) so that it takes longer for the bacteria to spoil the food.
For example, bacteria will spoil milk in two or three hours if the milk is left out on the kitchen counter at room temperature. However, by reducing the temperature of the milk, it will stay fresh for a week or two -- the cold temperature inside the refrigerator decreases the activity of the bacteria that much. By freezing the milk you can stop the bacteria altogether, and the milk can last for months (until effects like freezer burn begin to spoil the milk in non-bacterial ways).
What are the Different Types of Refrigerators? Top Freezer Refrigerator:
Tried and true, this is the classic refrigerator style that’s been a kitchen mainstay for decades. While the top freezer refrigerator means having the refrigerator at a lower level, which may not be ideal for some customers (i.e. the taller ones), the low cost of these models may be an agreeable tradeoff. This style is hands-down the most affordable option, making it a great choice for buyers on a budget. It’s also available in a variety of sizes to fit into kitchens large and small.
If you’re looking for a slim style, side-by-side refrigerator models feature a vertical freezer and refrigerator that sit directly next to each other. The slim profile does limit the sizes of the foods that can be stored, and these models aren’t as energy-efficient as other available refrigerator styles. However, it’s another incredibly budget-friendly choice. In addition to the attractive low cost, Side-by-Side refrigerators also have the benefit of requiring a small door swing space, making them ideal for kitchens with limited area. Most models also feature an external ice machine and water dispenser.
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator:
The bottom freezer refrigerator is extremely popular with good reason. These models provide a large block of storage space for both the refrigerator and freezer sections, allowing easy accommodation of contents in a variety of sizes and widths. Many people also prefer the convenience of having the refrigerator section directly at eye level, making it easier to quickly find what they need.
French Door Refrigerator:
the French door refrigerator brings a modern look into your kitchen. Not only does the lower-freezer setup mean large blocks of storage space, but the ability to open only one refrigerator door at a time minimizes the escape of cool air. Many models include a drawer-style freezer, but some include French doors on the freezer area as well. The French doors require a small swing space, and just like standard Bottom Freezer models, there's lots of versatility in accommodating wide or large items.
If you're looking for a low-profile fit for your new refrigerator, shopping our selection of counter-depth models is the perfect way to narrow the field! This category of refrigerators usually hovers between 27" and 30" deep, making them easy to blend into your kitchen layout and make the most of your space. If you're looking to conserve room and create a fully-integrated look, a counter-depth refrigerator may be the perfect choice for you.
Not looking for a full-sized fridge? Let a mini fridge be your solution! Mini fridges provide the cooling power you need in a much smaller package, making it a perfect choice for smaller kitchens, offices, rec rooms, and more. Mini fridges are available in a variety of sizes and configurations, with options like a separate freezer compartment, double doors, or a glass front. Some models are designed to be freestanding, while others are made for installation within a cabinet setup.
Some benefits of the refrigerator such as: