A guide to choosing the right bottom-freezer refrigerator
Author: Nancy Clark
Bottom-freezer refrigerators are ideal for big families or those who like to keep a large supply of frozen foods handy. Such freezers come in varying capacities and sizes and are equipped with adjustable shelves and pull-out baskets. Each brand offers multiple add-ons in its products, ranging from smart features and sensors to multiple temperature settings and energy-efficient functioning.
Tips to help you choose the right appliance
Consider the following features to help you choose the right brand and model:
- Capacity
Experts recommend choosing a refrigerator with a capacity rate of 4-6 cu ft per person, depending on the number of members in your family. The standard capacity of refrigerators is between 11.9 cu ft in narrow models and 27 cu ft in larger models. The dimensions of the fridge will vary with each brand, model, and design, so measure the available space in your kitchen and make a decision accordingly. At the same time, look for the depth of the freezer; they are available in standard- and counter-depth options. - Storage space
Adjustable shelves, trays, and convenient storage bins are must-haves in a modern fridge. Our storage patterns keep changing after every shopping trip. Organizing fresh food can become bothersome unless your refrigerator has adjustable shelves to create the right amount of space you need. The fridge doors are crucial storage spaces, so ensure that the door shelves are designed to store eggs, milk, juice cartons, and such. - Temperature control
Newer refrigerators come with sensors, and you can set individual temperature controls for your refrigerators and freezers. Some models come with advanced features, allowing you to set the temperature for each shelf as dairy and vegetables have to be stored at different temperatures. - Door type
A double-door refrigerator can allow you to organize the shelves to open only that part of the fridge, and it also increases storage space. That said, price is a major factor here, so you can choose a single- or a double-door refrigerator and freezer, depending on your budget. - Energy consumption
Many of the newer refrigerator and freezer models are energy-efficient, so look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models to save on your energy bills over time. - Advanced features
Technology has allowed manufacturers to introduce many advanced features that add to the appliance’s convenience and versatility. These include ice makers, ice and water dispensers, wine-chilling compartments, LED display and lighting, and smart connectivity and remote accessibility.
Top refrigerators and freezers to consider buying
Based on these parameters, you can choose from the following bottom freezer refrigerators:
- Whirlpool® Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator with SpillGuard™ Glass Shelves
This ENERGY STAR® certified refrigerator has a 22 cu ft capacity and comes with an LED interior lighting and Accu-Chill™ Temperature Management System that helps cool food quickly. It also has spillproof glass shelves, and FreshFlow™ Produce Preserver keeps your fruits and veggies fresh for longer. The adaptive defrost feature automatically monitors the freezer environment, running the cycle only when needed. It is available for $1,699 on the company website. - Hisense HBM17158SS – 17.1 cu ft Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator
This appliance has full-width refrigerator and freezer compartments with LED lights in the refrigerator compartment for good visibility. It has a counter-depth design and stainless steel exterior, and the device is ENERGY STAR® certified. You can get it for $899 online. - Kitchen Aid KRFC300ESS – Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator with Interior Dispense
This 20 cu ft French door model refrigerator has a single ice maker and comes with an interior water dispenser. Plus, Produce Preserver absorbs all the ethylene gas from the fruits and vegetables, keeping them fresh and preventing overripening. The ExtendFresh™ Temperature Management System, Humidity-Controlled Crispers, and a metal wine rack make this ENERGY STAR® certified appliance an excellent choice. This refrigerator and freezer costs $2,499 online.
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