Refrigerators - Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I'm buying an energy efficient refrigerator?
Look for the EnerGuide label on the appliance. It lists a model's annual energy usage under normal conditions.
Do water filters really work?
Water filters are designed to remove dirt, rust, chlorine, and other contaminants from the tap water used in the refrigerator's ice maker and water dispenser. To be effective, filters must be changed according to the manufacturer's directions. Some models of refrigerators have a built-in light that indicates when it is time to change the filter.
What size of refrigerator do I need?
The size of your family and your shopping habits are two key points to consider when buying a new refrigerator. Size can vary between 9 and 30 cubic feet. As a rule of thumb, a family of four will need a minimum of 10 to 12 cubic feet of fresh food space. And since a refrigerator will last 10 to 15 years, it's important to plan ahead when deciding on the best size for your family.
What type of refrigerator is right for me?
Choosing a style will depend on where the refrigerator will be located and the amount of money you have to spend. Today's refrigerator is available in a variety of sizes and shapes. The three most common types are:
- Top Mount
- Side-by-Side
- Bottom Mount
Top Mount refrigerators have the freezer located at eye level, above the fresh food section.
Side-by-Side refrigerators are split vertically almost in half with the freezer compartment on one side and the fresh food section on the other. The sleek vertical design offers several advantages over the same-size top-freezer models including eye-level access to a large fresh food section and the option of a water and ice dispenser.
Bottom Mount refrigerators have a freezer on the bottom, with the bulk of the storage space devoted to fresh foods. It's ideal for people who prefer to have easier access to the fresh food compartments.
What is the difference between glass shelves and spill-proof shelves?
Easy clean tempered glass shelves allow you to see the food stored in the back half of the refrigerator. A spill-proof shelf has a ledge around it to help prevent food and beverage spills from dripping off one shelf and onto another.