With many different options available, choosing the right fridge for your home can be difficult. From types and sizes to energy ratings and smart features, it can be hard to know where to start.
At Atlantic Electrics, we are here to help you. We know how important it is to make the right choice when choosing an appliance for your home. So, we offer a wide selection of exceptional appliances that will provide you with the best performance and outstanding refrigeration.
In our handy Fridge guide, we will explain everything you need to know and help you step-by-step through the purchasing process to ensure you find what you are looking for.
A few things to consider
The most important features to consider when buying a fridge are fit type, capacity, functions, and energy ratings. We will explore these features in detail in this guide to help you find the right model for your home.
Refrigerator fittings
The first question to ask is where you would like to place your refrigerator. This will help you to decide between a freestanding or integrated model. Let’s help you choose the best type of appliance to suit your home.
Freestanding appliances are the most flexible option as they come in a variety of sizes and styles that will suit any kitchen layout. Freestanding models are packed with handy features to provide you with the best refrigeration performance.
Integrated fridges are neatly hidden behind a cabinet door and are ideal for space-saving options. An integrated appliance is a great choice if you prefer the modern, sleek look as you can use your door panel to match your kitchen design.
Types of fridges
There are three different refrigerator types to choose from, so you can find the model that suits your style and kitchen layout the best.
Upright-
A very popular choice, upright models are a more flexible option for your kitchen. These spacious models are great for medium-sized households. You can choose between a freestanding or integrated fit type with an upright refrigerator.
Perfect for smaller households, an under-counter model will sit neatly below your kitchen counter. You can choose between a freestanding or integrated fit type. For more information, please refer to our Under-counter Fridges buyers guide.
Mini-
Mini fridges are the perfect solution for small spaces. These compact models are great for smaller households and can easily fit anywhere in your home, including on top of your counter to save space on your floor.
Key Features to consider
As technology has developed over time, refrigerators have benefitted from a range of additional features to improve performance and make life easier for you. We have created a list of key features to consider to help you make the right purchase.
Smart technology-
Smart fridges can be controlled from the manufacturer’s app on your smartphone or tablet via your Wi-Fi connection. This enables you to control your appliance with ease as well as receive alerts and personalised notifications for your refrigerator.
Auto Defrost-
The handy Auto Defrost technology will help to prevent the build-up of ice inside your fridge. A small hole located at the bottom of the compartment will collect all condensation that forms from the moisture in the air to protect your stored essentials.
Door Alarm-
Generally, most models feature a door alarm which will audibly alert you when the appliance door has been left open. This useful feature will ensure you can protect your stored goods.
Holiday mode-
Some models feature Holiday Mode which is ideal for if you are going to be away from home for a while. All you have to do is simply clear out your stored goods, activate the setting and leave the appliance switched on. This function ensures that the temperature inside the appliance will be regulated at an energy-efficient level so you will not come home to any unpleasant odours.
Quiet appliance-
If you are looking for a silent appliance, we’ve got you covered. We stock a wide selection of fridges that are specially designed to be quiet so you can enjoy a peaceful home.
The difference between a budget buy and a top of the range purchase can be:
· Auto Defrost
· Water Dispenser
· Reversible Doors
· Smart cooling/technology
· Wine cooler
· Holiday mode
· Sabbath mode
Choosing the right capacity
The size of your household will determine the right litre capacity you require for your home. Refrigerator capacities can vary between 89-400 litres, depending on the model type. We stock a range of fridges so you can easily find the right sized appliance to suit your lifestyle and storage needs.
Choosing an eco-friendly appliance
Staying eco-conscious has never been easier. If choosing an eco-friendly refrigerator is important to you, there are a number of factors to consider. You can find out how energy efficient a particular model is by checking the model’s energy rating. All labels are graded from A – G to help you understand how efficient an appliance is. Generally, appliances with an A grading are the most energy efficient as they are equipped with several intelligent, energy-saving features. Energy efficient models guarantee to provide an exceptional performance whilst taking the environment into consideration.
Useful tips to consider
Fridge brands-
There is a wide variety of trusted brands to choose from when selecting a refrigerator. You can pick your favourite or find the brand that offers the specific features, capacity, functionality and colour you are looking for. Take some time to research and discover the brand that is right for you.
Picking your colour-
Whether you have chosen a freestanding or integrated model, you will want to make sure your new fridge suits your style. Fridges come in a variety of colours and designs so you can choose the appliance that matches and completes your home.
Number of shelves-
Generally, the number of shelves in a fridge can vary depending on the size of the model. Undercounter models typically offer 2 shelves whilst upright models can supply 7 shelves or more. Some models may offer flexible shelves which can be removed and rearranged to make space for larger items.
Measurements & Installation
Fridges come in an array of sizes so you can easily find the right appliance for your kitchen. The key measurements to focus on are the height, width and depth of the appliance. Whether you have chosen a freestanding or integrated model, we stock a selection of refrigerators to fit every space.
Freestanding-
We have listed the standard measurements for each model type below.
Upright models-
· Height- 120-190cm
· Width- 54-60cm
· Depth- 56-70cm
Under-counter models-
· Height- 80-85cm
· Width- 46-60cm
· Depth- 44-64cm
Mini models-
· Height- 50cm
· Width- 50cm
· Depth- 50cm
Integrated-
We have listed the standard measurements for an integrated refrigerator below.
Built-in-
· Height- 87-180cm, depending on if you choose a full-height or under-counter model.
· Width- 54-57cm
· Depth- 50-55cm
Built-under-
These models are designed to fit beneath a kitchen cabinet.
· Height- 82-88cm
· Width- 59-60cm
· Depth- 50-60cm
Home checks-
We have listed below a few key home checks you should complete before you choose your new refrigerator.
· If you have chosen a freestanding model, we advise that you leave a few centimetres of space either side of the appliance so you can open the fridge door with ease.
· If you have chosen an integrated model, we recommend that you measure the height of the space where you would like to place your new appliance first as you will need a few centimetres of space for ventilation. We also advise that you leave a few centimetres of space at the back of the appliance for sockets that are required for connection.
Maintenance
It is important to take care of your appliance to ensure you protect your refrigerator’s performance. Fridges are now designed with efficiency and longevity in mind, requiring only a few simple steps to keep them in their best condition.
· We recommend that you wipe the exterior and interior of the appliance with a damp cloth and warm, soapy water. This will help to remove any fingerprints and stains.
· If your refrigerator surface is metallic, do not use scouring or abrasive sponges as you can corrode the material.
We recommend that you check your manufacturer’s guide and product details to ensure you understand what maintenance care your fridge needs, and what you can do to help keep your appliance running smoothly.
FAQs
We have listed some common questions we often get asked when buying a fridge below.
1. How do I know when it’s time for a new fridge?
Typically, if you think you may need a new fridge, the key things to look for are:
· If your food begins to go bad quicker.
· If the temperature in your refrigerator isn’t very cold.
2. What is a larder fridge?
A larder fridge is an undercounter refrigerator that doesn’t feature an ice box. This means that the appliance is designed for just chilled goods.
3. How much space do I need to leave around a fridge?
Some manufacturers recommend that you leave approximately 2-5cm of space around your appliance to ensure you have room for any plugs and pipes, and to enable your fridge to run efficiently.
4. Do all fridges have an ice box?
Not all models have an ice box so it is important to check before you make that purchase.
5. Can I keep my fridge in my garage?
Generally, most manufacturers don’t recommend placing a fridge in a garage as they do not meet the right temperature for the appliance to run smoothly. We advise that you check if your chosen model can be placed in a different room before you complete your purchase.
We are happy to help with anything you need. So, if there are any more questions, simply get in touch with our team.
The quality and reputation of the brand, place of manufacture and attractiveness of the design will all affect the price. At Atlantic Electrics, we will help you to choose a reliable model that provides you with the best results for your refrigeration needs. If you would like to take a look at some models in person, we have a vast selection on display in our showroom.
Telephone: 020 8208 6999
Email: web@atlanticelectrics.com
Our store: 970 North Circular Road London, NW2 7JR
