Refrigerators “Saratov”: overview of characteristics, reviews + 8 best models

Refrigerators and freezers of the Russian brand "Saratov" are manufactured at the Saratov Electric Aggregation Association.The products of the domestic manufacturer are represented by a variety of models in the budget and mid-price range, therefore they are in demand among buyers despite the variety of imported goods.

Are you looking for a practical unit at an affordable price? In this case, domestic devices will be the best solution. But before you go to the store, you need to figure out what is remarkable about Saratov refrigerators, what their strengths and weaknesses are, what to consider when choosing equipment.

All these points are described in detail in the article. In addition, we have prepared a review of the most popular models indicating their technical and operational characteristics. The information provided will help you decide on the advisability of purchasing a Saratov refrigerator.

Features of the model range

Today SEPO is a reputable modern enterprise that produces high-quality, time-tested domestic products.

Cooperation with a German company BASF made it possible to create improved thermal insulation that retains the cold for a long time during a power outage. The design of the new models was developed jointly with an Italian company AFROS.

If under the USSR products were supplied to 37 countries, including Europe, today refrigerators are exported only to the CIS countries, the Baltic countries, Pakistan and Afghanistan. The share of the Saratov brand in the Russian market is 15 percent

Lined up refrigeration equipment "Saratov" includes a fairly extensive range of relatively inexpensive models for the home:

• single-compartment refrigerators;
• single-chamber units without NTO;
• two-chamber refrigerators;
• display refrigerators;
• freezers.

The display cases are designed for shops, but can also be used at home.

New ergonomic models of Saratov refrigerators are made in a modern design, characterized by soft lines and impeccable whiteness. Refrigerators of this brand are models with comfortable handles, with durable plastic and glass shelves

The design of household appliances from the Saratov plant is simple and unpretentious. This is not to say that it is primitive or poor.

Refrigerators "Saratov" are classic models of white color and laconic shape. Some models have the ability rehang the door. The freezers have plastic drawers.

Many modern refrigerators have surge protection. One of the two-chamber models has two compressors, which makes it possible to change the temperature and control the chambers independently of each other

In terms of functionality, refrigerators of this brand are positioned as average.

If we talk about consumer properties, we can note:

• low noise level;
• excellent thermal insulation, allowing you to withstand a 12-hour shutdown;
• reliability and durability.

Energy consumption has decreased compared to earlier models, but still remains high - mainly class B and C.

The main advantage of Saratov refrigeration units is, of course, their price. Advantages include adaptation to domestic conditions of electricity supply and ease of use

The best compact representatives of the Saratov brand

It should be noted that small single-chamber models work best with SEPO. Some of them have minimal dimensions (width 48 cm and depth 59 cm), which makes the devices as convenient as possible for five-meter kitchens and tiny corridors in Khrushchev and Brezhnev nine-story buildings.

Compact but roomy models are ideal for small offices, hotel rooms, holiday homes and campsites. A striking example of miniature equipment is “Saratov 452” (KSh-120). Its height is 87 cm. The same height is for a gas or electric stove, kitchen tables and cabinets, which allows you to install the device in the same row with them.

The small-sized model “Saratov 452” (KSh-120) is the most suitable option for use in a country house, office or small apartment

The removable lid, covered with durable plastic, can serve as a tabletop. Externally, the refrigerator resembles an unremarkable nightstand. The interior space with small refrigerator (107 l) and freezer (15 l) compartments is carefully thought out, ergonomic and commendable.

There are two shelves made of impact-resistant glass. They can be adjusted to the desired height to accommodate everything you need.The door contains three more shelves in the form of solid pockets, a container for oil and cells for eggs. The fruit and vegetable drawer holds a large amount of food.

The door has four shelves with limiters for placing cans, bottles and canned goods, as well as cells for storing eggs

The temperature in the freezer is down to minus 12 degrees, in the refrigerator it can vary from 0 to 10. Electric energy consumption is 0.6 kW/h per day.

The advantages of the model include:

• three-year warranty;
• effectively organized, ergonomic interior space, allowing you to stock up on food for three to four days;
• adjustable temperature;
• low price.

The disadvantages should be considered the low efficiency of the device (0.445 kW/h), which is two times inferior to competing analogues.

The second drawback is that the temperature in the freezer is not low enough. It is known that deep freezing, which completely destroys parasites, is possible at -20°C and below.

The device has much in common with the 452 series models; it is their analogue in terms of the type of refrigerator compartment and snow-white design.

Differs in technical characteristics:

• higher energy efficiency, corresponding to class A, ensuring less costly operation;
• implementation of a drip defrosting system;
• replacing glass shelves with plastic ones.

The advantage of the model can be considered economical energy consumption and excellently organized internal ergonomics.

Small refrigerator "Saratov 452" (KSh-120) - ideal for use in a country house, office or small apartment

The refrigerator door can be re-hung, adapting the appliance to the existing conditions. The disadvantages are the same as the previous model.

Functional models with two cameras

All two-chamber refrigerators are adapted to Russian operating conditions. In order for the equipment to work smoothly, you must follow the instructions transportation of the unit and its use. In the event of a breakdown, the user can easily find an authorized service center to fix it.

Double-chamber refrigerators represent devices of different levels of complexity, capacity and cost. The freezer can be located at the top or bottom of the unit. Models differ in the size ratio of the freezer and refrigerator compartment.

All refrigerators in this category have an improved design, expressed in smoothed corners, comfortable ergonomic handles made of high-strength plastic

Refrigerator shelves are made of glass and metal, freezer containers are made of metal grates and environmentally friendly plastic.

To get a complete understanding of refrigerators in this category, you need to know their positive and negative sides.

If we talk about the advantages, they are:

• are models of the classic economy segment: they can be purchased at an attractive price;
• adapted to domestic electrical networks, their operation does not require surge protectors and other adapters and stabilizers;
• a large resource that allows you to use the refrigerator for 15 years or more.

Many European models cannot boast of such indicators.

Saratov refrigerators with two separate chambers cost several times less than foreign models with equal volume and power

The disadvantages include high energy consumption and the lack of additional options.Freon R134a, used in refrigerators, is considered not the most efficient. Belarusian compressors are reliable, but very noisy.

Two-chamber models are justifiably in consumer demand. However, they consume more energy than their foreign competitors. The disadvantage is compensated by a relatively low price and ergonomic internal filling of an impressive volume.

A good, functional, economical model with an automatic defrosting system. You can defrost no more than once a year

The interior design deserves attention. There are shelves in the refrigeration section; their height can be changed. The door contains trays with or without restrictive barriers. Freezers are equipped with pull-out plastic drawers.

The advantages of the device include the following:

• simplicity and reliability of models;
• large useful volume;
• high-quality materials used in production;
• durability of Belarusian compressors;
• maintainability and excellent service.

The assortment is dominated by refrigerators of the usual white color. Models vary in capacity and height. It is worth noting the quality and good quality of white plastic, the service life of which reaches 15 years or more.

Under the lower glass shelf there are two plastic boxes for storing fruits and vegetables. Their volume is small, but two kilograms of apples should fit

Owners of Saratov brand household appliances note the following advantages:

• high-quality freezing and cooling;
• good internal ergonomics;
• high-quality, high-quality, environmentally friendly materials;
• mechanical control.

Low cost is a significant advantage that explains the popularity of two-chamber units in Saratov.They also have disadvantages, including the small capacity of the freezer and high energy consumption. They are mainly suitable for use in the countryside.

Models with a top-mounted small freezer are recommended for those who rarely use freezing and prefer chilled foods.

A model for that category of people who lead a healthy lifestyle, including fresh fruits, vegetables and other products in their diet

The interior space of all models with two autonomous compartments is simple, convenient and reliable.

Popular units of the Saratov brand

Let's consider models that are actively in demand among domestic consumers, who are attracted not only by budgetary cost limits. After all, thrifty owners do not want to waste even small money by someone else’s standards.

The purchased equipment must work out the period guaranteed by the manufacturer with an impressive reserve, without causing trouble to the owners with either major breakdowns or minor failures.

Model #1 - Saratov 451 (KSh 160)

A compact refrigerator in classic white color is an excellent solution for small kitchens and cottages. The height of the model Saratov 451 (KSh 160) is 114.5 cm, the width is only 48 cm, the depth of the refrigerator is 60 cm.

With such small dimensions, it pleases with a fairly good volume of 165 liters. The freezer compartment is located on top, its volume is 15 liters.

Cooling is carried out statically. The air inside closed chambers moves independently: the cooled part falls into the lower zone, displacing warmer air upward. The displaced mass at the top cools and replaces that which has managed to warm up somewhat.

Due to the temperature difference, condensation forms and settles on the walls of the unit.The heavy drops accumulated on the walls flow into the receiver, from which they are sent to the device that evaporates them. This pattern is also called drip or weeping.

Refrigerators cooled using this technology need defrost regularly for removing snow build-up.

Defrosting is carried out manually, but this disadvantage is compensated by the formation of a special microclimate inside the refrigerating chamber. The level of humidity in it helps to preserve the freshness of greens/fruits/vegetables for a long time. Drip technology costs less than units operating “without frost”.

Model 451 (KSh 160) is controlled by an electromechanical system that is simple and works stably without failures. The minimum temperature limit in the freezer compartment is 12°C. In terms of energy saving, this unit is assigned class A, which is very good for products with the Saratov logo.

Model #2 - Saratov 452 (KSh-120)

The small-sized refrigerator is lower than the previous model - its height is 89.6 cm, which allows it to be used not only as a compact appliance for summer cottages, but also as a mini-bar in hotels or offices. The width of the single-door model is 48 cm, depth 60 cm. With such a small height, the useful volume is 122 liters. The capacity of the low-temperature compartment is 15 liters.

Cooling is done by drip method. Its future owners will have to defrost it at the frequency specified in the manufacturer's instructions. The minimum temperature in the freezer is -12 °C.

The control is electromechanical; its significant advantage is its insensitivity to excess moisture, which is typical for drip systems.

Model #3 - Saratov 263 (KShD-200/30)

Compared to mini-refrigerators, Saratov 263 (KShD-200/30) stands out due to its larger dimensions.The height of its body is 148 cm. It is no more wide than the models described above, still 48 cm, depth 59 cm. The total volume of usable internal space is 195 liters, of which 30 liters are occupied by the freezer compartment.

Cooling of both the freezer and refrigeration compartments is carried out using a drip scheme. The equipment will have to be defrosted manually to remove the ice coat. The minimum temperature in the freezer is 18°C.

The control is of an electromechanical type, with which operational problems are extremely rare. In terms of economical energy consumption, the model has a rather low class C.

Model #4 - Saratov 467 (KSh-210)

Model Saratov 467 (KSh-210) is slightly larger than the version described above. The height and width are similar, only the depth is 1 cm larger. But the volume of usable space is already 210 liters. The low-temperature compartment occupies 25 liters.

The unit is cooled statically, i.e. according to the crying scheme. It needs to be defrosted regularly to remove ice crust and frost.

The control uses the traditional type for the Saratov brand - electromechanical. The unit is not very economical in terms of energy consumption, but it is reliable and easy to operate.

Model #5 - Saratov 209 (KShD 275/65)

In the line of miniature equipment in Saratov, model 209 (KShD 275/65) is a real giant. The two-chamber model with a freezer located below is made in a classic white tone. The height of the unit body is 163.2 cm, the width and depth are both 60 cm. The useful space capacity is 275 liters, of which 65 liters are allocated to the freezer compartment.

The chambers are cooled in a weeping manner. They need regular defrosting, which will have to be done manually.However, the level of humidity inside such systems helps to better preserve the aroma and nutritional properties of fresh food.

To better maintain the temperature inside, the chambers are equipped with separate doors. Electromechanical control. According to the energy consumption data, the unit received class C - a rather low indicator, which is somewhat compensated by the more than affordable price of the refrigerator.

Model #6 - Saratov 549 (KSh-160 without NTO)

An ideal choice for lovers of country life. The Saratov 549 model (KSh-160 without NTO) does not have a freezer, which is not particularly necessary when using the equipment only for the weekend. The height of the case is 114.5 cm, the width and depth are 48 cm and 59 cm, respectively.

The case, small by standard standards, holds 165 liters. Plastic shelves are provided for arranging products, and trays are hung on the door for placing bottles and small packaging.

The unit is cooled by the drip method; it must be defrosted regularly, manually removing the ice. An electromechanical system is installed for control. In terms of energy consumption parameters, the model is only class B. Probably, the developers decided that when using “from time to time” it is not necessary to save money.

Model #7 - Saratov 569 (KSh-220)

The single-chamber, single-door refrigerator Saratov 569 (KSh-220) is slightly larger than its previous brother. The height of the case is 147 cm, the width is also 48, and the depth is slightly more than 60 cm.

Potential owners will have as much as 220 liters of refrigerated space at their disposal.

This model also does not have a freezer. Defrosting must be done manually. Electromechanical control.

Model #8 - Saratov 153 (MKSh-135)

Single-chamber model 153 (MKSh-135) - designed for freezing meat, fish and vegetable preparations. It will serve as an excellent addition to a refrigerator without a freezer or with a small freezer compartment.

The height is 114.5 cm, the depth and width of the model are 48 cm and 59 cm, respectively. The useful space capacity is 135 liters.

The unit is cooled using a static method and requires regular manual defrosting. The interior space is equipped with pull-out containers that allow you to divide the contents into batches based on freshness and other characteristics.

The control is of an electromechanical type; in terms of energy consumption, freezing equipment is assigned class B.

Tips for choosing “Saratov refrigerators”

When choosing a device, you should pay attention to the following characteristics.

Location of the freezer and volume of chambers

The freezer is placed at the bottom or top of the refrigerator. Both options are comfortable and ergonomic. When choosing, everyone is guided by their own ideas about convenience.

An important characteristic of a household appliance is the volume of the refrigerator chambers. The more products you plan to store, the larger your freezers and refrigerators should be.

Housing coating and control type

The coating can be plastic or plastic-metal, which is a polymer reinforced with a steel sheet. The second option, if there is anti-corrosion protection, is preferable. If it is not there, rusty smudges may form over time.

In this case, it is better to choose plastic, which is a durable and lightweight modern composite. If you plan to transport the refrigerator, choose a model with a plastic case.

As for the type of control, inexpensive models, as a rule, do not use nanotechnology. Saratov refrigerators use cost-effective electromechanical control, which ensures proper operation even in places with power outages and regular power outages.

There is no alternative to this type of control in inexpensive models.

Energy consumption and type of refrigerant

Refrigerators from Saratov manufacturers are produced mainly in classes B and C, there are also class A models. electricity consumption they are inferior to more economical analogues.

The leading Russian manufacturer has not yet implemented energy saving technologies used throughout the world. Class A is the most preferable when choosing a model.

The refrigerator manufacturer uses inexpensive R134a freon in its models. Many companies have abandoned it because the said refrigerant clogs the capillary tubes. The units in which it is used are noisier and more dangerous in the event of a freon leak.

Defrosting method and climate class

The NoFrost function, which does not require defrosting, is not available in Saratov refrigerators. In budget domestic models, two types of defrosting are used: drip - for the refrigerator compartment, manual - for the freezer.

Defrosting of such refrigerators, unlike devices with a manual defrosting system, can be done once a year. A high-quality polyurethane insulator reliably protects against frost formation in the freezer.

The device must meet the climate class. For example, for operation in the temperature range of +16-32 °C, class N is selected, while class SN corresponds to temperatures of +10-32 °C.The efficiency and uninterrupted operation of the device depends on the correctly selected parameter.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Tips for choosing refrigeration equipment in the following video:

A video about the manufacturer of Saratov brand refrigerators, which tells about the history and present day of the company:

Saratov refrigerators are called a workhorse, the purchase of which can save money. Models from the Russian manufacturer represent household appliances with the best price-performance ratio. These are reliable devices that will serve their owners for at least fifteen years.

But the operation of devices, the characteristic feature of which is increased energy consumption, will be expensive. Of all the presented models, the Saratov - 479 refrigerator is the most economical and less tiring in everyday life.

Are you looking for an inexpensive, reliable and practical refrigerator for your home or garden? Or do you have experience using the Saratov technique? Tell our readers about the specifics of operation and maintenance of such units. Share your personal experiences and ask questions - the comment form is located below.