What you should know before buying a side-by-side fridge

Apart from the slick appearance of side-by-side refrigerators, it turns out that these models have several other cooling features to justify their price tags, which are higher than those of top- mounted models of a similar capacity.

The design of side-by-side fridges, with two full-height doors of equal length, actually makes it easier to see and access frequently used refrigerator and freezer shelves without bending, crouching down or tiptoeing.

The freezer, which is located on the entire left side, runs the entire height of the refrigerator and provides extra space for storing frozen items. The placement of the freezer is also a boon for people, such as children who have not reached full height and those in wheelchairs, who might have found that the traditional top-mounted freezers were difficult to use.

The narrower doors of side-by-sides also mean that less clearance is needed when opening them, making them perfect for tight kitchen spaces.

However, this also means that storage space is also narrower, often making it difficult to store oversized items such as birthday cakes and large trays.

Although many side-by-sides have built-in filtered water dispensers and through-the-door icemakers, make sure these are features that are actually needed since they require routine maintenance, add up to 10 percent in energy usage and cost more.

Also, a leading consumer magazine in the United States, Consumer Reports, has reported that the dispensers and icemakers are what most frequently needs repair in side-by-side models.

Here are some tips for choosing side-by-side refrigerators:

Style and design

With an array of colors, ranging from plain-vanilla white to marine blue, and finishes, from glass panels to stainless steel, choose a model that fits the overall kitchen-set design and coordinates with the other appliances.

Also make sure the refrigerator is well-lit and that the compressor noise is as low as possible.

Size

Measure the dimensions of the refrigerator to make sure that it will fit in the space it is intended for. Take into account the extra space needed when the door is open wide and all the drawers and shelves are pulled out. Also be sure to measure the doorways and entrances in your house, which the refrigerator must pass when delivered.

Climate control

Find a model with an electronic touchpad that shows both the temperature setting as well as the actual temperature. Some refrigerators also allow different humidity and temperature settings for different drawer compartments, which can be handy for keeping vegetables crisp and fruits fresh.

Shelving

In general, refrigerators should have flexible, sturdy and easy-to-clean shelves. Glass makes the best shelves, with some models having raised sealed rims to spill-proof them.

Also look out for adjustable split-shelves and pull-out bins that will allow more flexibility in storing items. Some refrigerators are also equipped with wine-racks and beverage racks.

Manufacturer warranty

When properly maintained, refrigerators can be used for up to 25 years. Choose reputable companies that offer a minimum of a one-year parts and labor warranty. The compressors should carry a separate warranty of at least five years.

-- The Jakarta Post/002