How to choose a refrigerator: which refrigerator is better and why + rating of the best models

A refrigerator is a household appliance that must be in every home without exception.It is thanks to it that products can be stored fresh for a long time. There is a wide range of these units available on the market.

Therefore, every buyer will definitely choose something for himself. But in order not to make a mistake, it will be useful to understand how to choose a refrigerator and what characteristics to pay attention to when purchasing. Our article is devoted to these issues. We also provided a rating of the best models, indicating their pros and cons according to the owners.

Refrigerator selection criteria

A wide range of choices of household appliances gives rise to a whole list of questions in the minds of buyers. After all, a wide variety of units creates certain difficulties and it is simply impossible for a non-professional to understand all the intricacies.

But a good solution before going to the store is to understand the main characteristics that should be given special attention.

Main types of units

If you go to a hardware store, you will notice a wide variety of such equipment. But all the proposed models are divided into several main categories. Moreover, each of them has both its advantages and disadvantages.

The following types of refrigerators are distinguished:

1. French Door. This type of device has two compartments. The freezer compartment is presented as a drawer and is usually located at the bottom. The upper chamber consists of a pair of valves.
2. Side-by-Side. This type is divided in such a way that a third of the refrigerator is occupied by the freezer, and the rest is the cooling compartment. This type is often complemented by a zero compartment, which, in turn, is divided into dry and wet zones.
3. Freezer. Usually this type is built into a kitchen set. The freezer compartment maintains a temperature of about -18 degrees.

A good solution would be to purchase a built-in model. This will save kitchen space and make the room design as laconic and pleasant as possible.

For wine lovers, an excellent solution would be to buy a small cabinet to store this drink. Today you can find both inexpensive, medium-sized models, and professional units with an impressive volume

Types of freezers

The freezer is a place where extremely low air temperatures are maintained, which allows food to remain fresh for several months. Such cameras are divided into several types.

When purchasing appliances for domestic use, it is better to give preference to designs with a built-in freezer compartment.

In this case, it will be possible to store and freeze a wide variety of products.The only drawback of this solution is the small volume of the chamber.

If you plan to freeze an impressive amount of products, then the best solution would be separate freezers. As a rule, they have a height of about 2 m and are equipped with drawers or shelves.

Some boast of having special trays where you can store berries, fruits, and vegetables.

For freezing large quantities of meat or fish, a chest-shaped freezer is a great choice. Its main advantage is its efficiency. But getting products located below will be problematic

Size and volume of equipment

When thinking about which refrigerator model is best to choose, first of all, you should decide on acceptable dimensions.

The height of the units varies from 0.5 to 2.5 m, which entirely depends on the way the cameras are positioned. Width ranges from 0.4 to 1.9 m, weight from 22 to 157 kg. As for the volume, it can range from 3 to 800 liters.

It is necessary to choose a refrigerator with certain dimensions depending on the needs of the family. It is best to prepare the place where it will be installed later during the repair.

Purpose and number of branches

The second most important criterion for choosing such household appliances is the number of cameras. Three-, two- and single-chamber models are in greatest demand.

If you need the most spacious unit, then you should give preference to Side-by-Side models, in which the cooling compartment is located on the right and the freezer on the left. They are suitable for storing a wide variety of products.

Making a choice is quite simple - you need to roughly calculate how many and what products will subsequently be stored.

If there is no need for freezing, then the best choice would be a single-chamber model equipped with a low temperature compartment (LTC).

Refrigerators with LTO are divided into the following categories:

• lack of marking — products can be stored for no more than a few days;
• one star - food can be kept in the NTO for about 2 weeks, where the temperature is usually -6 degrees;
• two stars — food can be stored for up to 2-3 months, while the temperature drops to -12 degrees.

There is an NTO labeled three stars. A distinctive feature of this technique is the ability to preserve food for a whole year at a temperature of about -18 degrees Celsius.

Equipment defrosting system

The oldest method of defrosting is manual. This means that when a certain amount of ice and snow has accumulated in the freezer, you will need to turn off the unit to remove it. defrost.

A more modern system is technology NoFrost. Its essence is that cold air circulates throughout the entire volume of the device, for which a special fan is used.

Recently, a new defrosting system has been used. Its essence lies in the fact that the ice formed on the evaporator begins to melt when the compressors are turned off

When the flow stops, the ice begins to melt and all the water flows into a separate compartment, from where it evaporates over time.

Efficiency and energy consumption

On the marking you can see the letter from A before G. This characteristic shows the degree of efficiency of the equipment. Class equipment is considered the most effective C, B And A.

We talked in more detail about the energy consumption of a refrigerator and ways to save in this material.

But more recently they began to produce refrigerators that correspond to categories A+, A++ and A+++. Yes, they are expensive, but they can save up to 50% of electricity, which is simply excellent.

Compressor selection rules

Typically, modern refrigerators are equipped with one or a pair of compressors. But it is better to give preference to the latter variety, as it has a number of advantages.

Devices with one compressor work on two chambers at once. This means that if it becomes necessary to lower the temperature in one of the compartments in the second compartment, it is lowered automatically.

As a result, the engine uses up its resource faster, and energy consumption increases significantly.

Units equipped with a pair of compressors have one single drawback - a high price. But taking into account all the advantages of such technology, the above minus is insignificant

When purchasing equipment with two compressors, the above problem does not arise. In addition, the motors can operate separately, allowing you to turn off one of them to wash the camera. In this case, the second compartment will operate in normal mode.

Climate class and its meaning

An important indicator that you must pay attention to when purchasing is the climate class. It shows at what humidity and temperature the device can operate.

The most common is the normal class N. In this case, the refrigerator operates without problems at temperatures from +16 to +32 degrees. This is an ideal solution for the CIS countries.

For cold rooms, it is recommended to use units that correspond to the subnormal class. They are marked as SN.In this case, work is allowed at temperatures from +10 to +32 degrees (in the figure, the model class is marked with a red frame)

There are subtropical and tropical classes. But they are only suitable for hot countries, where temperatures can rise to +43 degrees.

Coating material and capacitor

Today, the body of refrigerators is made of plastic or stainless steel. You should refuse to purchase a unit made from the first material. Yes, such a model will be cheap, but it is extremely short-lived and easily damaged.

A condenser is an element where refrigerant vapor is cooled. As a rule, it is made in the form of a coil or in the form of a radiator installed near the compressor

The best solution would be appliances made of stainless steel or aluminum. They are characterized by a long service life. But at the same time they are quite expensive.

Optimal type of control

Adjustment and correction of work is carried out electromechanically or electronically. In the first case, to change the temperature you need to turn the thermostat knob.

The disadvantage of this solution is that you can only reduce or increase the cooling level, but the exact value cannot be set.

A more modern type of control is electronic. In this case, by pressing a single button, the desired humidity, temperature, and fan rotation speed are set. In this case, all information will be displayed on a digital screen

Electric valve and refrigerant

A substance that, when expanding, takes heat from the external environment, and releases it during compression, is called a refrigerant. Typically, refrigerators use ammonia, SF6 or freon for this purpose.

As for the electric valve, its main task is to control the flow of coolant. Thanks to this, you can precisely adjust the temperature in each of the equipment compartments

Unit noise level

This characteristic is usually measured in decibels and reflects the noise level that is created during operation of the device.

The indicator should be as low as possible. Otherwise, a loud refrigerator will interfere with household chores.

Most modern models have a fairly low noise level. As a rule, this parameter does not exceed 38 dB

What additional features will be useful?

Today, manufacturers equip their equipment with a wide variety of functions and parts, which makes operation even more convenient and the device practical.

But not all types of improvements are as useful as the manufacturer says. Here is a list of the most practical and truly necessary functions.

Ionizer and ice maker

Fans of soft drinks will appreciate the presence of an ice maker in the refrigerator. It is usually presented in the form of a separate chamber where the ice is automatically frozen and cut into cubes or ground into crumbs.

This device requires a water connection to operate. You can also purchase a model with a separate water tank, but it will need to be refilled from time to time.

You can prevent the development and proliferation of harmful bacteria if you buy equipment with an ionizer. The principle of operation of this function is the passage of air flow through a special mesh with high voltage.As a result, oxygen molecules are converted into active ions and receive an antibacterial effect. Moreover, the function is absolutely safe for humans.

Maximum cooling mode

Its peculiarity lies in the non-stop operation of the compressor. Thanks to this, it is possible to achieve the lowest possible temperature inside the equipment.

It is recommended to use the maximum cooling function during the summer heat. The option can also be used to quickly freeze food in the freezer compartment

Chilled water system

This functionality will prevent excess warm air from entering the refrigerator. At the same time, you can always enjoy cool, clean water.

The system works through a special container that needs to be filled over time, or by connecting the device to the water supply system. Sometimes this option is combined with an ice maker.

Super freeze function

A separate function is used to cool food as quickly as possible and then freeze it later. If activated, the temperature in the freezer compartment will drop to -24 degrees Celsius.

But you shouldn’t abuse such a technological solution. Indeed, in the case of prolonged operation in super-freezing mode, the performance of the compressor can be significantly reduced.

Thermometer and temperature indicator

A rather useful addition would be a temperature indicator. It will signal an increase in temperature. Typically, this may be due to a power outage or a door that is not closed properly.

A thermometer is often installed in the freezer to monitor the temperature of the compartment.This function will help you adjust the conditions depending on your own needs.

A sound or light signal can be used to alert the owner. A timely response will help avoid premature spoilage of products.

Child protection for display and door

The main task of the function is to block the buttons that control the operating mode of the device. This will be relevant for families with small children, where children can change the temperature due to their curiosity. Some models are equipped with a built-in door lock. This will also prevent your child from opening the refrigerator.

The locking option is necessary if the control buttons are located low. But on many models the display is located so high that children simply cannot reach it. Accordingly, in this case the blocking function will be useless.

Built-in LCD display and TV

For those who like to watch TV and rummage through the refrigerator at the same time, an excellent solution would be to buy a model with a built-in LCD screen. This is the first time such a feature has been introduced by LG.

Samsung equipment is often complemented by a display with which you can access the Internet. This way you can find out recipes, news, order groceries and leave a reminder for yourself or your household.

Features of equipment pricing

The choice of cooling equipment most often depends on budget. A family with an average income is unlikely to buy an ultra-modern and ultra-expensive model. Therefore, it is important to find out what affects the price of a check.

The cost of equipment largely depends on the following factors:

• number of cameras;
• energy efficiency class;
• volume and dimensions;
• presence or absence of a second compressor;
• extended list of functions.

In general, the price becomes higher if more electronics were used in the manufacture of the refrigeration equipment. On average, its cost ranges from $300 to $1,200.

Some branded and high-tech models can cost $3,000, but paying that amount for cooling equipment is not entirely advisable

TOP 7 best refrigerators

The number of refrigerator manufacturers is increasing every year. The technology of each company has its own distinctive features and certain disadvantages that deserve special attention.

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the rating of the best models, compiled based on customer preferences and reviews of real owners.

Place #1 — ATLANT ХМ 4214-000

Model XM 4214-000 Atlant brand is the most popular among buyers. This is a two-chamber unit with a total capacity of 248 liters. Its cost on average is 16.3 thousand rubles.

The XM 4214-000 refrigerator is equipped with an 80-liter freezer compartment located in the lower part of the structure. Its defrosting is possible only in manual mode, while a drip system is provided for the refrigeration mode.

The unit is quite economical - energy consumption corresponds to class A, climate class - N, which indicates the possibility of use in normal conditions. So, when the heat is 30-32 degrees, there will be no problems with cooling.

The height of 180 cm allows you to place on numerous shelves a huge amount of products designed to feed all members of the family. And the capacity of the freezer allows you to freeze up to 3.5 kg per day.

Owners are especially pleased with the spaciousness of this model and its quiet operation - even at night, a noise level of 42 dB will not frighten anyone in the household.

Among the shortcomings, users note insufficient illumination of the internal space of the refrigeration section due to the presence of one, and even then a small, light bulb.

Place #2 - Indesit DF 4180 W

Indesit DF 4180 W, like the previous model, is widely purchased and popular among families with a small budget who do not want to take out a loan to purchase household appliances. Its average cost is 22 thousand rubles.

Refrigerator F 4180 W from Indesit It is made in white color, which makes it easy to fit into the interior of both a city apartment and a country house. It is narrow and long, which has a positive effect on placement in compact kitchens and other rooms.

Despite the visual narrowness, the unit is quite roomy - the useful volume of its two chambers is 302 liters. Moreover, the refrigeration unit accounts for 223 liters.

This model does not have a protruding handle on the door, which many old and modern models suffer from. Some people liked this feature, but some owners are indignant about it. There are glass shelves inside the unit and excellent lighting for the refrigeration chamber, which is good news.

Also, the owners of the Indesit DF 4180 W include excellent performance in any conditions - it preserves food remarkably well. As well as economical energy consumption corresponding to class A, spacious and convenient shelves and drawers.

Among the disadvantages, noteworthy is the noise, which, according to users, exceeds the declared 43 dB.

Place #3 – Hotpoint-Ariston HF 4200 W

Model HF 4200 W from Hotpoint-Ariston belongs to the category of spacious two-chamber refrigerators. This is what buyers choose among many similar offers on the household appliances market.

The average cost of the unit is 25 thousand rubles, which is more than affordable for a total volume of 324 liters, of which 249 are in the refrigerator compartment.

Both Hotpoint-Ariston HF 4200 W cameras are equipped with a No Frost, which makes maintenance even easier for owners. It is the presence of this defrosting system that many buyers cite as a fundamental indicator for purchasing a model.

Among other advantages, users name a well-thought-out design of the internal space of the chambers, convenient drawers in the freezer and excellent glass shelves, the height of which you can choose yourself, in the refrigeration section.

As for the minuses, here the owners allocate a small daily amount of food for freezing - a maximum of 2.5 kg. Although this is enough for many. And the temperature in both chambers is maintained at the proper level even on the hottest days.

Place #4 - ATLANT X 2401-100

ATLANT X 2401-100 is a typical representative of single-chamber models. Its height is only 85 cm, and the useful volume of the single compartment is 120 liters. The average price tag for the model is 9.8 thousand rubles.

This refrigerator is the undoubted leader among competitors due to the optimal ratio of equipment and price.

The unit is ideal for small apartments/rooms/offices - it takes up minimal space, preserves food perfectly and operates almost silently. The 42 dB declared by the manufacturer is completely inaudible behind a closed door.

The single-chamber ATLANT X 2401-100 does not lack a freezing function. Its design includes a compact freezer with a capacity of 15 liters, the door of which, like the refrigerator itself, can be moved to the other side if desired.

Place #5 - Liebherr SBS 7212

The two-compressor Liebherr SBS 7212 with an average price of 104.5 thousand rubles is one of the favorites among buyers of refrigeration equipment. It is roomy - this figure corresponds to 651 liters. It also consumes energy economically, belonging to the class A+.

Model SBS 7212 brand Liebherr is a representative of Side by Side refrigeration equipment. Structurally, it consists of two parts - a refrigerator and a freezer, which can be connected independently during installation.

The convenient design of the unit allows you to easily bring it into the kitchen of a standard apartment without widening the doorway. Among the advantages of SBS 7212, owners note very quiet operation, excellent food storage in each compartment, as well as convenient shelves.

As for the minuses, users are unhappy with the lack of lighting in the freezer. They also experience some inconvenience due to the lack of sound indication when the door of the refrigeration compartment is open. This notification is provided in the freezer unit of this model.

In general, the Liebherr SBS 7212 pleases numerous owners with its impeccable performance, and its considerable dimensions do not interfere at all.

Place #6 – Candy CXSN 171 IXH

Refrigerator CXSN 171 IXH Candy brand has a more affordable price compared to representatives Side by Side from Liebherr or Samsung. Its price tag starts at 61 thousand rubles with capacity 503 l and equipped with the No Frost system.

The model has a freezer compartment on the side. Its volume is 167 liters. The remaining 336 liters are in the refrigerator compartment. The shelves of the unit are made of glass; it is possible to adjust the height, customizing this parameter to suit your needs.

The CXSN 171 IXH is equipped with an ice maker, a display on the front of the case, which allows the user to see the settings being set and other tasks that the unit is currently performing.

Among the disadvantages of the model, owners note noise, although the manufacturer claims this parameter at 43 dB, as well as bulkiness - not every kitchen can accommodate this refrigerator.

Some users don't like the position of the lower shelves - they are too low, especially for tall customers. And the light emitted by the bulbs is not enough to fully illuminate the lower part of the refrigerator compartment.

Place #7 – Samsung RB-33 J3200WW

Samsung RB-33 J3200WW is distinguished from similar refrigeration units by its high-quality assembly, compliance of actual characteristics with those stated in the data sheet, and reasonable price. The average cost of this model is 34 thousand rubles.

In the first half of 2018, it became one of the most purchased Samsung brand refrigerators, having won the title of “Customers’ Choice”.

Numerous owners of the RB-33 J3200WW note the presence of the No Frost system, compact dimensions and excellent capacity of 328 liters, which was made possible due to the height of 1.85 meters.

Among the advantages, it is also worth noting strong glass shelves, the presence of a display on the front of the door, an audible warning about the open door and about temperature changes.

Users like the convenient location of the refrigeration compartment - no need to constantly bend over to get cutlets or fruit from the lower shelves. At the bottom of the structure there is a freezer with three drawers with a total volume of 98 liters.

The owners consider the main disadvantages of the Samsung RB-33 J3200WW to be noise, which is declared by the manufacturer at 47 dB, and dirty shelves. And also the material of the decorative panels of the body is not strong enough - it does not withstand fights with the claws of pets.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Five questions, the answers to which will help you quickly choose the right equipment:

Refrigeration appliances are equipment that should be in every kitchen. Thanks to the wide range on the market and the above recommendations, you can purchase the optimal refrigerator model. Which will not only cope with its main task - cooling and freezing food, but will also delight you with a number of extremely useful functions.

Are you planning to buy a refrigerator and want to clarify a few nuances? Ask your questions to our experts and other site visitors below this post.

If you think that our rating is missing another model that is no less worthy and popular among buyers, write to us about it in the comments, indicating the strengths of the refrigerator.