A freezer is an essential appliance in any home, as it allows you to store and preserve food for a longer period. They can help you reduce food waste by allowing you to store leftovers and perishable items that would otherwise go bad in the refrigerator. Fruits and vegetables in season can also be frozen so you can eat them all year. Additionally, they offer convenience and adaptability when it comes to planning meals. You may save time on hectic weeknights by preparing meals in advance and freezing them for later. In this buying guide, we’ll take a look at some of the key factors to consider when purchasing one for your home.
Capacity
The capacity of a freezer is one of the most important factors to consider. It’s crucial to get a model that is big enough to hold all of your frozen food products while yet taking up a reasonable amount of space in your house. Small models with a capacity of about 3 cubic feet and large models with a capacity of up to 20 cubic feet or more are typical sizes for standalone freezers.
Type
Freezers come in different types, including chest, upright, and built-in freezers. Chest models are more energy-efficient and have a larger capacity. Large products like meat, fish, and fowl can be stored in them without any problems. Tall and slender upright models take up less floor area. They make food easier to organize and are more easily available. Built-in units are incorporated into kitchen cabinets and created to complement the design of the kitchen.
Energy Efficiency
Freezers can be energy guzzlers, so it’s crucial to pick an energy-efficient one. ENERGY STAR-certified models are the best to buy because they adhere to stringent energy efficiency standards established by the US Environmental Protection Agency. When compared to non-certified versions, freezers with the ENERGY STAR label can save your energy costs by up to 10%.
Defrosting
Defrosting a freezer can be a tedious task, so it’s important to consider the defrosting method when choosing one. Models that need to be manually defrosted require you to turn the appliance off and remove any ice buildup. On the other hand, ice buildup is avoided with the help of automatic defrosting mechanisms in frosted-free models.
Features
Depending on your storage needs, you can choose from a variety of freezer features. Consider features like shelving that let you arrange food items in a way that works for you. A door lock that keeps your freezer secure, especially if you have small kids. A temperature alarm that warns you when the temperature exceeds a specified point will keep your food fresh. The fast freeze option makes it possible to swiftly freeze food products, which is perfect for perishable items. A lighting fixture inside that makes it simple to find food items, especially in low light.
Price
Setting a budget before you go shopping is essential because freezers can cost anywhere from a few thousand to several lacs. Look for models in your price range that have the features and capacity you require. Remember that more expensive versions might have more cutting-edge technologies and better energy efficiency, which could result in long-term cost savings for you.
Brand and Warranty
It’s crucial to select a reputable brand with a strong history of quality and customer service when buying one. Search for products from reputable companies like Whirlpool, LG, or GE. The warranty should also be properly considered, as it can differ greatly between brands and models. Look for a warranty that provides at least a year’s worth of parts and labor coverage, and think about getting an extended warranty for added assurance.
Conclusion
Finally, it’s critical to weigh variables such as freezer capacity, type, energy efficiency, defrosting, features, pricing, brand, and warranty when making a purchase. You may select a model that satisfies your requirements and falls within your price range by taking the time to research and contrast various models.
