How to Choose a Refrigerator
Refrigerators are kitchen appliances used to keep food and beverages cold. They are commonly used in homes, offices, hotels and college dorms.
Some refrigerators have smart features, like sensors and cameras. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that allow you to watch videos, search for recipes, look up family calendars and shopping lists, or even leave notes for family members.
Control of Temperature
The proper temperature in the refrigerator ensures that food items are safe for storage and slows the degradation of many food items due to spoilage. This is especially true for food such as eggs and milk that quickly turn rotten at room temperature but remain stable at refrigerator levels. Refrigerators can also be used to store pharmaceuticals, such as vaccines or drugs that become less effective over time. Refrigerator monitoring systems are readily available to help ensure an medical laboratory or medical facility maintains an appropriate cold chain.
The thermal insulator inside a refrigerator keeps its contents cooler than surrounding air. The heat pump moves warm air from the outside of the refrigerator into an insulated compartment, where it cools to a very low temperature. The refrigerator also has a control system that switches on the cooling system if its internal temperature rises above the threshold set by the manufacturer. This stops the growth of bacteria inside the refrigerator.
Each of the refrigerator zones is designed for a different function. The lower shelves are perfect to store perishables such as fresh meats and vegetables that require the minimum temperatures to preserve their taste and texture. The shelves should be kept clear to allow cool air to circulate within the refrigerator. A separate drawer for deli can be used to store soft cheeses and cured meats to create the perfect charcuterie board.
Refrigerators also feature stainless steel or glass doors to protect the interior and facilitate cleaning. Some refrigerators include a door-alarm that can be programmed. It will notify you if the fridge freezer is not closed for too long. You can set them up to alert multiple people and in escalating levels depending on your requirements. They can be configured to record temperature and send graphs remotely via text message or email.
Freestanding appliance thermometers are an inexpensive alternative to the built-in thermometers that are found in most refrigerators. It is crucial to monitor the temperature of the freezer and fridge often, particularly when there is a power failure or if you manually altered the temperature setting. Ideally, both the refrigerator and freezer should be set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less.
Capacity for Storage
The capacity of your refrigerator is a crucial factor when choosing the model that best suits your requirements. There are many sizes available including small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic foot to larger models with a capacity over 26 cubic feet. Take into consideration your family's cooking preferences and the number of people living in your home to determine which size is best for you. On average, 11-13 cubic feet of refrigerator space is sufficient for two people. 18 to 22 cubic feet is recommended for three to four persons.
Look at the depth of the fridge, as well as the total space. Some models are shallower than others, allowing them to fit in tight spaces without taking up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, and have the depth being roughly the similar to a standard kitchen cabinet's front (though handles may protrude slightly further). These can be a good option for homes where counter space is limited and also look more sleek than traditional refrigerators.
When shopping for a refrigerator, inquire about its noise level and energy consumption. There are many manufacturers that offer quieter models for use in homes, and others offer refrigerators that use less electricity than similar models. Look for the yellow Energy Guide label on appliances to find out about the typical energy usage for a specific model. Also, test the model's operation by closing and opening the doors.
A majority of modern refrigerators come with the pantry drawer. It is a full-width section with separate temperature controls that can be used to store a variety of things. These drawers can be used to store trays for parties as well as wine and other things at a certain temperature. They can be programmed to store wine or deli food items as well as soft drinks, depending on the model.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators use a lot of energy. That's why it's crucial to choose one that is energy efficient. As time has passed refrigerators have become more energy-efficient. The insulation, motors, and magnetic door seals on a modern refrigerator use less energy than an older fridge similar in size. You can reduce the electricity consumption of your refrigerator even more by choosing one that is energy efficient. A refrigerator that has an Energy Star rating will use much less energy than a model that is ten years or older.
Energy efficiency is particularly important for consumers who have limited access to electricity grids. Refrigerators are often among the most costly appliances for households that are off grid Their large energy consumption means they require huge solar home systems (SHS) which aren't affordable for families earning less than $2 per day. larder fridges of refrigerators is a crucial factor to determine whether it's affordable for consumers to buy and operate. (PATH and WHO 2013 ). McCarney et. al. 2012).
We will begin by describing the basic refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools by pushing a liquid refrigerant through a sealed device that begins as a liquid, and then passes through a compressor that reduces the liquid to create the form of a vapour. The vapor then flows through coils located on the exterior of the fridge where it draws the heat from the fridge, then cooling down before returning to liquid. This process repeats repeatedly to keep food cool as the vapor moves through the coils.
Refrigerators are still one of the most expensive appliances that consumers off-grid can purchase but enhancing their energy efficiency can make them more affordable. A refrigerator powered by a smaller SHS will be operated with less energy. This can lower the overall system costs. Depending on the size, style, and features of the refrigerator, the savings on energy will vary. For instance, ice makers and through-the-door water dispensers increase cost, but can substantially increase the energy consumption and, in turn, increase the amount of SHS needed to power it.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspections can significantly increase the lifespan of your refrigerator. This can be accomplished by inspecting the condenser coils, ice maker, defrost drain and the gasket seal on the door to make sure it's in good shape. Additionally, cleaning and replacing water filters are also important. Performing these simple maintenance tasks can extend the lifespan of your refrigerator and also save you money on energy bills.
The simplest and most efficient refrigerator maintenance task is to clean the inside of your refrigerator frequently. This includes throwing out old food items, cleaning shelves and crispers, walls, and the interior of the refrigerator's doors. This can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and unpleasant smells. A fridge thermometer is recommended for checking the temperature of your fridge regularly. A refrigerator that isn't properly maintained can be subject to temperature fluctuations that can lead to food spoilage and an increase in your cost of electricity.
It is also important to clean the condenser coils on your refrigerator at least twice per year to get rid of any dirt, dust, hair, grime, and other debris that may have built up. These coils are located on the bottom or back of your appliance. They are basically radiator-like components that help remove heat from your refrigerator. They aren't able to disperse the heat as effectively when they're dirty. Your refrigerator will consume more energy to run.
Check the seal on your refrigerator that is designed to create an airtight seal between the fridge and the ductwork in your home. It is essential to keep your fridge's contents cold. However in time, the seal can be worn down by greasy fingerprints and sticky syrups. Clean your fridge's seal with an abrasive towel to keep it in good condition.
In the end, it's recommended to regularly clean the drip pan, which is normally located under the refrigerator's compressor unit. The drip pan is responsible for collecting the water from the defrost cycle of the refrigerator. It should be cleaned frequently to prevent the growth of mold and unpleasant smells.