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 house, without exception. It is thanks to her that products can be kept fresh for a long time. An extensive range of these units is available on the market.

Therefore, each buyer is sure to pick up something for himself. But in order not to lose money, it will be useful to figure out how to choose a refrigerator and what characteristics to pay attention to when buying. It is precisely these issues that our article is devoted to. We also gave a rating of the best models, indicating their pros and cons according to the owners.

Refrigerator selection criteria

A wide assortment of household appliances raises a whole list of questions in the minds of buyers. Indeed, a wide variety of units creates certain difficulties and it is simply impossible for an amateur to understand all the intricacies.

But a good decision before going to the store is to deal with the main characteristics, which should be given special attention.

The main types of units

If you go to a household appliance 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. Such devices have two compartments. The freezer compartment is presented as a drawer and, as a rule, is located below. The upper chamber consists of a pair of wings.
2. Side by side. This view is divided in such a way that a third of the refrigerator is occupied by the freezer, and all the remaining ones are the cooling compartment. This type is often supplemented by a zero compartment, which, in turn, is divided into dry and wet areas.
3. Freezer. Typically, this kind is built into the kitchen. In the freezer compartment, a temperature of about -18 degrees is maintained.

A good solution is to purchase an embedded model. This will save the area of ​​the kitchen and make the design of the room as concise and enjoyable as possible.

For wine lovers, a great solution is to buy a small cupboard to store this drink. Today you can find both inexpensive, medium in size, models, and professional units that differ in an impressive volume

Types of freezers

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

When appliances are bought for domestic use, it is better to give preference to designs with an integrated 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 camera.

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

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

For freezing large volumes of meat or fish, a chest-shaped freezer is an excellent choice. Its main advantage is profitability. But getting the products below will be problematic

Size and scope of equipment

Thinking about which model of the refrigerator is better 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 located. Width is found from 0.4 to 1.9 m, weight from 22 to 157 kg. As for the volume, it can be from 3 to 800 liters.

Choosing a refrigerator with one size or another is necessary depending on the needs of the family. It is best to prepare a place during the repair, where it will be installed in the future

Appointment and number of branches

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

If you need the most roomy unit, then you should give preference to models like Side-by-Side, in which the cooling compartment is located on the right and the freezer is on the left. They are suitable for storing the most diverse in volume 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 a single-chamber model equipped with a low-temperature compartment (NTO) will be the best choice.

NTO refrigerators are divided into the following categories:

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

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

Defrosting system

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

A more modern system is technology. Norost. 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 Power Consumption

On the marking you can see the letter from AND 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 more about the energy consumption of the refrigerator and the ways of saving in this stuff.

But more recently, refrigerators began to be manufactured that correspond to the categories A +, A ++ and A +++. Yes, they are expensive, but can save up to 50% electricity, which is just an excellent indicator.

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 cameras at once. This means that if it becomes necessary to lower the temperature in one of the compartments in the second compartment, it decreases automatically.

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

Units equipped with a pair of compressors have one single drawback - the high price. But taking into account all the advantages of such a technique, the above minus is not significant

When buying equipment with two compressors, the above problem does not arise. In addition, the engines can work separately, which allows you to turn off one of them to wash the camera. In this case, the second compartment will work in normal mode.

Climate class and its significance

An important indicator, which must be given attention when buying, is the climate class. It shows at what humidity and temperature the device can work.

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 comply with the subnormal class. They are marked as SN. In this case, operation is allowed at a temperature of +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 the temperature can rise to +43 degrees.

Coating Material and Capacitor

Today, the case of refrigerators is made of plastic or stainless steel. It is worth giving up buying an aggregate 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 stainless steel or aluminum. They are characterized by a long service life. But at the same time they are quite expensive.

Optimal control type

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

The disadvantage of this solution is that it is only possible to reduce or increase the level of cooling, 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 also the 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 expanded, takes away heat from the environment and gives off during compression, is called the refrigerant. Typically, refrigerators use ammonia, gas, 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 departments of equipment

Unit noise level

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

The indicator should be as niche as possible. Otherwise, a loud fridge 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 details, which makes operation even more convenient, and the device practical.

But not all kinds of improvements are so useful, as the manufacturer says. Here is a list of the most practical and really needed features.

Ionizer and Ice Maker

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

For the operation of such a device, a connection to the water supply is required. You can also purchase a model with a separate water tank, but it will need to be refilled from time to time.

It is possible to prevent the development and reproduction of harmful bacteria if you buy equipment with an ionizer. The principle of operation of this function is to pass the air flow through a special grid with a high voltage. As a result, oxygen molecules are converted into active ions and get an antibacterial effect. Moreover, the function is absolutely safe for humans.

Maximum cooling mode

Its feature is the non-stop operation of the compressor. Thanks to this, you can achieve the lowest possible temperature inside the equipment.

Using the maximum cooling function is recommended during the summer heat. Also, the option can be used to quickly freeze food in the freezer compartment.

Chilled Water Supply System

Such functionality will prevent excess warm air from entering the refrigerator. In this case, you can always enjoy cool, clean water.

The system works due to a special tank, which over time needs to be filled, or as a result of connecting the device to the water supply system. Sometimes this option is combined with an ice generator.

Super Freeze Function

For the quickest possible cooling of products and their subsequent freezing, a separate function is used. If you activate it, then in the freezer compartment the temperature will drop down to -24 degrees Celsius.

But do not abuse such a technological solution. Indeed, in the case of prolonged operation in the super-freezing mode, the compressor's performance can significantly decrease.

Thermometer and temperature indicator

A pretty 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 tightly closed.

A thermometer is often installed in the freezer, which controls the temperature regime of the compartment. Such a function will help to adjust the conditions depending on your own needs.

To alert the owner, a sound or light signal may be used. Timely response will prevent premature spoilage of products.

Protecting the display and doors from children

The main task of the function is to lock the buttons that control the operation mode of the device.This will be true for families with young children, where kids, due to their curiosity, can change the temperature. Some models are complemented by a built-in door lock. It also prevents the child from opening the refrigerator.

The lockout option is necessary if the control buttons are low. But on many models, the display is so high that children simply can’t reach it. Accordingly, in this case, the lock function will be useless.

Built-in LCD and TV

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

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

Features of pricing technology

The choice of cooling equipment often rests on the budget. A middle-income family 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;
• the 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 refrigeration equipment. On average, its cost is in the range from 300 to 1200 dollars.

Some branded and high-tech models may also cost $ 3,000, but it’s not quite advisable to give such an amount for cooling equipment

TOP 7 best refrigerators

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

We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the rating of the best models, based on the preferences of customers and reviews of real owners.

Place # 1 - ATLANT XM 4214-000

Model XM 4214-000Atlant 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 section located in the lower part of the structure. Its defrosting is possible only in manual mode, while a drip system is provided for refrigeration.

The unit is quite economical - energy consumption corresponds to class A, climate class - N, which indicates the possibility of use in normal conditions. So, with a heat of 30-32 degrees, problems with cooling will not be observed.

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

The owners are especially pleased with the spaciousness of this model and its quiet operation - even at night, a noise of 42 dB will not scare any of the household.

Among the shortcomings, users note the insufficient illumination of the internal space of the refrigeration department 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 bought and popular with small budget families who do not want to take a loan to purchase household appliances. Its average cost is 22 thousand rubles.

Fridge F 4180 W fromIndesit It is made in white, which makes it easy to fit into the interior both in a city apartment and in 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 accounts for 223 liters.

This model does not have a protruding handle on the door, which many old and modern models sin. Someone liked this feature, and some owners are indignant about this. Glass shelves are placed inside the unit, excellent illumination of the refrigerator is provided, which is good news.

Also, the owners attribute the Indesit DF 4180 W pluses to excellent performance in all conditions - it saves products remarkably. As well as class A economical energy consumption, spacious and comfortable shelves and drawers.

Of the shortcomings, it should be noted the noise, which according to users claims exceeds the declared 43 dB.

Place # 3 - Hotpoint-Ariston HF 4200 W

Model HF 4200 W fromHotpoint-ariston It belongs to the category of spacious two-chamber refrigerators. It is he who is chosen by buyers among many similar offers in the home appliance market.

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

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

Among other advantages, users call the well-thought-out design of the interior of the cameras, convenient drawers in the freezer and excellent glass shelves, the height of which can be chosen independently, in the refrigerator department.

As for the minuses, here the owners allocate a small daily volume of products for freezing - this is a maximum of 2.5 kg. Although for many this is enough. 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 a single department is 120 liters. The average price tag for the model is 9.8 thousand rubles.

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

The unit is ideally suited for small apartments / rooms / office premises - it occupies a minimum of space, remarkably saves products and works almost silently. The 42 dB declared by the manufacturer is completely inaudible behind a closed door.

The single-chamber ATLANT X 2401-100 is not without its freezing function. A compact freezer with a capacity of 15 liters is provided in its design, the door of which, as in the refrigerator itself, can be hung on the other side, if desired.

Place # 5 - Liebherr SBS 7212

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

Model SBS 7212Liebher brand is a representative of refrigeration equipment such as Side by Side. 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 expanding the doorway. Among the advantages of SBS 7212, the owners note a very quiet operation, excellent preservation of products in each of the departments, as well as convenient shelves.

As for the minuses, users are unhappy with the lack of backlight in the freezer. And also they experience some inconvenience due to the lack of sound indication when the door of the refrigeration department is open. Such an alert is provided in the freezer unit of this model.

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

Place # 6 - Candy CXSN 171 IXH

Refrigerator CXSN 171 IXHbrand candy differs in more reasonable price in comparison with representatives Side by side from Liebher or Samsung. Its price tag starts at 61 thousand rubles with spaciousness 503 liters and equipped with the No Frost system.

In the model, the freezer is located 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, adjusting this parameter to fit your needs.

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

Of the minuses of the model, the owners note noisiness, although the manufacturer claims this parameter at the level of 43 dB, as well as cumbersomeness - not every kitchen is able to accommodate this refrigerator.

Some users do not like the location of the lower shelves - they are too low, especially for tall buyers. And the light emitted by the bulbs is not enough to fully illuminate the bottom of the refrigerator.

Place # 7 - Samsung RB-33 J3200WW

Samsung RB-33 J3200WW differs among similar refrigeration units in its high-quality assembly, compliance with the actual characteristics stated in the passport, and a pleasant price. The average cost of this model is 34 thousand rubles.

In the first half of 2018, it became one of the most bought Samsung brand refrigerators, having won the title of "Choice of buyers."

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 thanks to a height of 1.85 meters.

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

Users like the convenient location of the refrigeration department - no need to constantly bend down to get cutlets or fruit from the lower shelves. A freezer with three drawers with a total volume of 98 liters is provided at the bottom of the structure.

The owners consider the main disadvantages of the Samsung RB-33 J3200WW noise, which is declared by the manufacturer at 47 dB, dirty shelves. Also, the material of the decorative panels of the case is not strong enough - it does not tolerate 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 technique:

Cooling equipment is the equipment that should stand in every kitchen. Due to the wide range of products on the market and the above recommendations, you can purchase the optimal model of the refrigerator. Which will not only cope with its main task - cooling and freezing products, but will also please with a number of extremely useful functions.

Planning to purchase a refrigerator and want to clarify a couple of nuances? Ask your questions to our experts and other visitors to the site below this publication.

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