21.10.2025 Armine Badalyan

How to choose a refrigerator?

A refrigerator is a necessity for every home. Therefore, choosing the right model is important for long-term comfort. Modern refrigerators not only preserve the freshness of food, but also provide more efficient use through smart technologies. If you are going to buy a refrigerator, then consider several important factors. In this article, we will tell you how to choose the right refrigerator, taking into account your needs and budget.

Refrigerator Size/Capacity

Before buying a refrigerator, it is important to know in advance where it will be placed. Measure the length, width, and height. Make sure there is enough space for the doors to open, and check whether there is an electrical outlet nearby. It seems simple and does not need to be mentioned, but it is still worth remembering this once again. The capacity of the refrigerator is also essential. For example, for a family of 1-2 people, a model with a capacity of 150-250 liters is usually sufficient. In the case of a family of 3-4 people, consider a refrigerator with a capacity of 300-400 liters. And for a larger family or, say, if you are going to store a large amount of food, it is advisable to buy a refrigerator with a capacity of 500 liters or more.

Design

Refrigerators are divided into several categories in terms of design:

Single-door: Such models are compact, suitable for use in small spaces. A single-door refrigerator usually has one refrigerator compartment and a small freezer. It is also suitable for offices or summer cottages.

Double-door: The most common type on the market. A double-door refrigerator has one freezer compartment and a freezer compartment located above or below.

Side-by-Side: Such refrigerators are wide and powerful models, where the refrigerator and freezer compartments are located side by side. Such refrigerators are quite capacious, and also have intelligent control systems. Many models also have the function of automatic water and ice supply.

French Door: these options have two upper doors and a freezer below, which not only gives an elegant look, but is also more convenient for arranging food. These models often have wide shelves, deep compartments and special technologies to preserve the freshness of food for a long time.

Built in: The perfect solution for those who want to maintain the overall style of the kitchen interior. These models are built into the furniture, making the refrigerator invisible, but fully functional.

Defrosting type

Drip system: moisture is collected in a special tray on the back wall of the refrigerator and evaporated using the heat of the compressor. Over time, ice forms on the walls of the compartments, so the refrigerator must be defrosted and washed at least once every six months. Food does not dry out in this compartment, but the temperature in the refrigerator compartment may be unevenly distributed.

No Frost system: This system is based on the circulation of air inside the chambers. The cooling element is located in a special chamber, where moisture condenses and evaporates. No ice forms on the walls of the chambers, so regular defrosting is not necessary. However, the No Frost refrigerator must be cleaned at least once a year. The disadvantage of this technology is that the constant circulation of dry air draws moisture from the food, which leads to its drying out. To avoid this, food can be stored in vacuum packages.

Low Frost: A fanless version of No Frost with a larger evaporator surface located behind the walls of the refrigerator. In this type of refrigerator, food is less likely to dry out and can be stored for a short time without packaging. However, the freezer is less efficient: it cannot quickly freeze large amounts of food. Moreover, over time, frost may form on the walls of the refrigerator.

The “Full No Frost” label means that both compartments are equipped with the “Frost-Free” system. This option is considered the most advanced, but its disadvantages must be taken into account. The fan reduces the usable volume of the refrigerator compartment, creates additional noise and can lead to drying out of food, so it is best to store food in containers or bags.

Type and number of compressors

There are absorption, thermoelectric and compressor refrigeration systems. The first two, although quiet, are not very popular among domestic buyers due to their high energy consumption and other shortcomings.

Most household refrigerators are equipped with a single compressor that simultaneously operates both the refrigerator and freezer. They cannot be turned off separately, but modern models have a “Vacation” option: when the freezer is operating, the refrigerator switches to economy mode.

In dual-compressor models, the refrigerator and freezer are completely independent and have their own temperature settings. Premium dual-compressor refrigerators and side-by-side refrigerators usually have dual compressors.

Compressors can be linear (on/off) or inverter type. The latter, thanks to a special power converter, work continuously, but at different power levels. Inverter compressors are quieter, wear out more slowly and also save energy. Their disadvantage is sensitivity to voltage fluctuations. Inverter refrigerator is also more expensive than conventional one.

Energy Saving

To estimate the annual energy consumption of your refrigerator, look at its data sheet. Multiply the number in the “Energy Consumption” column by the value per kWh. The more often you check your refrigerator, the more energy it uses. Choose a refrigerator with a high energy efficiency rating: A, A+, A++ or A+++. The higher the rating, the lower the energy consumption. Classes B, C, D and E are considered inefficient.

Control

Refrigerators are controlled mechanically or electronically. The former is less accurate, but in the event of a breakdown, repairs are cheaper. Electronic controls located on the device panel allow you to adjust the temperature and preset operating modes, which help save energy. For example, when you are on vacation, you can turn off the refrigerator compartment and leave only the freezer compartment on. Some modern refrigerators are controlled via Wi-Fi and smart home systems.

Noise

If you plan to install a refrigerator in a studio apartment or near a bedroom, choose models with a noise level of 40 dB or less. The noise mainly comes from the compressor. As we have already found out, inverter refrigerators are quieter.