Refrigerator Buying Guide for 2024

Consider Your Needs

Considering your needs and lifestyle is crucial when shopping for a new refrigerator. You will want to choose a model that fits seamlessly into your daily life.

For example, families with kids may prioritize ample storage and adjustable shelves, while frequent entertainers might value advanced cooling features. You will also want to consider if you need extra features like ice makers or water dispensers. Think about who will be using the refrigerator and how easily they can access it.

By taking these things into account, you can make a decision that not only meets your immediate needs but also enhances your overall kitchen experience.

Set Your Budget

Setting a budget for your refrigerator purchase is crucial to strike the right balance between affordability and quality. Start by evaluating your financial situation and determining how much you can comfortably allocate to this investment. While it is tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, remember that a higher upfront investment can often translate into long-term savings through energy efficiency and durability.

To find the best value for your money reach out to knowledgeable sales representatives to help you make an informed decision.

Select Your Refrigerator Size

One of the most important things to consider is the size of the refrigerator that you will need to fit in your space. If you have limited space, you may not be able to purchase a wide refrigerator. Also, consider the space you have to open refrigerator doors. If you have limited space between the refrigerator and a nearby doorway or cabinets, a top mount or bottom freezer refrigerator may not be able to open completely in the space.

Before you begin your shopping experience, start by measuring the size of your current refrigerator and/or the space you have available for a new one.

Features to Consider

Once you have determined your budget, lifestyle, and the space you have available, think about the features that you want your refrigerator to have. Some of the latest features and most helpful refrigerator features in 2024 include:

• Touch Screen Interface – High-end models may include touchscreen displays embedded in the door, providing access to apps, calendars, and entertainment options, as well as the ability to stream music or videos.
• Advanced Cooling Systems – Some refrigerators feature multi-airflow systems and dual cooling systems, ensuring even temperature distribution and optimal humidity levels to keep food fresher for longer periods.
• Interior Cameras – A growing trend is the inclusion of interior cameras that allow users to remotely monitor the contents of their refrigerator via smartphone apps, helping them keep track of inventory and expiration dates. Some models include a feature that allows you to easily knock on the refrigerator to see what is inside without opening the doors.
• Wi-Fi Capability – Wi-Fi options can help you monitor your appliance’s health, troubleshoot issues, and more. They can also connect to other appliances in your home, including Ring doorbells, cameras, and more. Samsung’s Family Hub offers a great line of smart refrigerators that will keep your home connected.
• Ice Maker - If you host parties regularly or enjoy having iced beverages, ice makers can be a huge benefit. Although many refrigerators include ice makers, some basic models may not include them.
• Water Dispenser - Again, filtered water can be an important convenience for those who entertain regularly or want to avoid purchasing bottled water.
• Energy Efficiency - Going green is not only good for the environment but can save you money on utility bills as well.
• Finish Colors - If you want your appliances to match or are looking for a particular finish, keep this in mind. Oftentimes, similar finishes can vary between brands, so make sure the finish matches your other home appliances if that is important to you.
• Fingerprint-Resistant Finish - Several refrigerators are available in fingerprint-resistant finishes, which is great for homes with children.
• Adjustable Shelves - Adjustable shelves can be an added benefit and important if you often have uniquely sized items in your refrigerator or freezer.

Choosing a Type of Refrigerator

The next decision to make in purchasing the right fridge for your home is choosing the right type. There are several styles of refrigerators available, including:

• Top Mount
• Bottom Freezer
• French Door
• Side-by-Side
• Custom Built-In

Your family’s needs and lifestyle will play a large role in determining which type is best for you. Each type of refrigerator has its own benefits and feature options. Here are some of the pros and cons of each type:

Top-Mount Fridge Pros and Cons

Top-mount refrigerators are what most people think of when they imagine a standard refrigerator. In most cases, they are the most budget-friendly option.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly options are available.
• Frozen food is easy to see and kept at eye level.
• Often have wide shelves in the freezer and fridge allowing you to store wide items more easily.

Cons:

• Not available with many added features (i.e., water dispensers, Wi-Fi capabilities, etc.)
• Limited organization options for freezers

Bottom Freezer Fridge Pros and Cons

Bottom freezer refrigerators are ideal for homes that want to have fresh food at eye level. This is a great option if your family uses refrigerated items more often than frozen foods.

Pros:

• Easily accessible refrigerator items
• Often includes baskets and shelving to organize frozen items.
• Budget-friendly (though often slightly more expensive than top freezer models)

Cons:

• Can have limited freezer space because of the organization of baskets and drawers.
• Not available with many added features (i.e., water dispensers, Wi-Fi capabilities, etc.)

French Door Fridge Pros and Cons

French Door refrigerators are the most common refrigerators found in modern homes and offer more versatility than other types of refrigerators.

Pros:

• Available with countless added features, including Wi-Fi capability, touchscreens, ice makers, and much more.
• Split doors allow increased energy efficiency when only opening one side of the refrigerator.
• Refrigerated food is easily accessible at eye level.

Cons:

• Not budget-friendly. Low-end models start at just over $1,000 and high-end models with added features can be much more expensive.
• They are often wide and may not fit well in tight spaces.

Side-by-Side Fridge Pros and Cons

Side-by-side refrigerators offer the option to have all your food more easily accessible but can sacrifice storage width.

Pros:

• Available with countless added features, including Wi-Fi capability, touchscreens, ice makers, and much more.
• Refrigerated and frozen items can all be kept at eye level.

Cons:

• Shelf space is not as wide as other refrigerator options, making wide items difficult to store.
• Not budget-friendly. As with French Door refrigerators, low-end models of side-by-side refrigerators start at just over $1,000.

Built-In Fridge Pros and Cons

Built-in refrigerators are the most customizable option. If you are looking for a high-end refrigerator and want it to meet your family’s needs, built-in fridges are the perfect option. They are available in several widths and options.

Choosing a Brand

One of the most important factors in the decision-making process is choosing which brand you would like to purchase. There are several leading brands to choose from. Selecting the size and type of refrigerator you want first can narrow down your brand selection. We recommend choosing a major name-brand refrigerator and ensuring you have a warranty on your appliance.

Some of the top brands we recommend include LG, Samsung, GE, Frigidaire, Maytag, and Whirlpool. Read more about the best refrigerator brands in our blog post by clicking here.

Looking to Finance?

Extend your budget and apply today for special promotional financing. Howard’s Appliance can work with you to find flexible financing and you can receive 18 months of no interest. Learn more about our financing options online today or contact us for more details.

Find Your Refrigerator at Howard’s Appliance

Howard’s Appliance has been in business for over 75 years and is Southern California’s largest and most trusted appliance retailer. We offer free next-day delivery on purchases over $399 within qualified ZIP Codes scheduled before 5 p.m. in the Southern California area. To make things easier for our customers, we also offer online chat, phone consultations, and online ordering.

Shop one of our appliance store locations in Corona, Laguna Hills, Long Beach, La Habra, and the surrounding area, or browse our selection online at Howards.com.