Overview of Compact Refrigerators
Designed to fit into small spaces and serve specific functions, compact refrigerators are available in prices and designs ranging from inexpensive models to upscale styles. The choice depends upon on budget and individual needs. Whether chilling soft drinks in a college dorm or expensive wine in a contemporary loft, there's a compact refrigerator for every function. A quick internet search shows small refrigerators that vary in cost from less than 0 to over 00. How do you which one is right for you? How much should you expect to spend for the look and features you want?
With concern for eco-friendly appliances and the desire to save on electric bills, some consumers are downsizing the size of their homes and, consequently, their appliances. While it's hard to find a compact refrigerator that does it all, most companies are designing smaller models that take up less space and still have room for a limited supply of ice and frozen food. The most advanced of these are pint-sized models of the standard version with separate, frost-free freezers.
Ranging from under two cubic feet to almost 5 cubic feet, the newest compact refrigerators offer options not previously available. Compressor-free systems are quieter, colder, and friendlier to the environment. Many models have automatic defrost, reversible doors, and adjustable thermostats. Consumer Reports recommends purchasing the largest model that will fit into a space. Not only will it be more convenient, but it will also be more energy efficient, as well.
While compact refrigerator have improved and the selection has grown, it is important to remember that none of them are as efficient as full-sized ones. It is best if they are used mostly for cooling and not heavily relied upon for freezing since even the best models fail to measure up to their larger counterparts. In Consumer Reports tests, even the compact that performed best for freezing failed to reach the lowest temperature required for storing foods for long periods of time.
Specific features, such as locking doors, are especially designed for the dorm or office. The choice of glass shelves instead of wire ones makes the clean-up of spills a little easier. Depending on size of the unit, shelves may have limited adjustability, and there may be compartments for storing beverages. An inside light is usually not included, but is probably not necessary. Most units come with just one ice tray that makes miniature cubes, and small ice cubes melt more quickly than larger ones. Compact refrigerators come in a variety of finishes: black, white, stainless or a stainless look, wood grain, or a combination of these.
These refrigerators basically fall into one of three categories: tall, medium, and small. The tall models are the most convenient and efficient and generally range in price from 0 - 0. Medium-sized models generally cost less than 0 and have less than three cubic feet of storage. The smallest models, or cubes, are essentially square-shaped, and are obviously the smallest and least functional. At less than two cubic feet, they are sometimes, however, the only option.
Small refrigerators are sold at discount and appliance stores, warehouses, and by internet vendors. Since the compressors on most of these models have a life span of 7-10 years, it is important to shop around and to consider how long the unit will be used. Although compact models are made by many of the leading manufacturers of larger ones, there is little difference in their features. According to one internet provider, Whirlpool makes some of the best. Other highly recommended manufacturers are Avanti, known for its quality, and Danby, distinguished for its innovative designs.
Less common than office fridges are the compact refrigerators manufactured for very specific purposes. The 12 volt refrigerator is just the ticket for camping or boating activities, and the car refrigerator is perfect for fall tailgating parties. Some sporting models can even be charged by solar or wind power, making them a good alternative for hurricane season, as well as recreational traveling. On the other end of the spectrum, under-the-counter compacts and sleek wine coolers make entertaining convenient and luxurious.
Whether it's an inexpensive cube for the college freshman or an upscale stainless steel built-in, finding a compact refrigerator will not be difficult. Choosing from all the options may be the hardest part!
| Price : $189.00
