Side By Side Freezers Fridge
Side-by-side refrigerators are a great source of storage for your family's food. Some such as our top pick from Forno, also have counter-depth dimensions that sit flush against cabinetry to give a sleek, built-in appearance.
Some models provide freezer storage with different heights. This can be useful for families with children, or anyone who has difficulty reaching the top shelves.
Size
As the name suggests, side-by-side refrigerators have an ice maker and refrigerator on each side. They can hold more than models with a top freezer and bottom-freezer. They also have a narrower width and won't usually interfere with your walk like single-door refrigerators, which is useful in kitchens that are cramped.
Because they're taller than other refrigerator styles side-by-sides provide more storage space in the freezer, too. They typically have shelves and compartments to make organizing easy, keeping the most frequently used items on your shelves in the refrigerator and long-term foods on higher, harder-to-reach shelves in the freezer. They may also have ice and water dispensers that let you easily access drinks without opening the freezer door.
The freezers in these refrigerators employ separate cooling systems to guarantee the coldest, even temperatures, so that food stays fresher longer. They also come with features that prevent loss and spoilage. These include the hydration station and air filters for reducing odors, and crisper drawers that absorb ethylene gas to slow the over-ripening process of vegetables and fruits.
The drawback to this type of refrigerator is that it's not as energy efficient as top- or bottom-freezer models. They're larger in vertical volume that needs to be chilled, which can drive up your utility bill. Plus, they are less efficient than other models in storing large items and may not be suitable for those who have mobility issues and are unable to bend.
Convenience
The slim doors of side by side refrigerators require less space for opening than other types of refrigerators, making this style the ideal choice for narrow kitchens. Side-by side fridges are also larger than French door refrigerators - typically 13 to 15 cubic feet for fresh food items, and 8 to nine cubic feet for freezers.
They are also an ideal choice for smaller condos or homes in which a larger fridge could lose counter space. The main drawback of these refrigerators is that they may not be large enough for certain families' storage needs. larger holiday meals or bulky containers may not fit and even everyday kitchen utensils may not be able to fit into the refrigerator. It is possible to move shelves, but this could be time-consuming and reduce refrigerator efficiency.
Another limitation of side by side freezers is that they dedicate an equal amount of space to the freezer than refrigerators which could be a concern if you intend to make frequent use of a deep freezer. There are solutions to overcome this potential drawback. Many models include an ice maker separately that allows you to serve chilled drinks without the need for the cooling system in your refrigerator.
Choose side by side fridge and freezer pair that has separate freezer and refrigerator sections. For example the Preserve Food System by KitchenAid comes with an air filter to reduce odors and a system to absorb ethylene to delay the overripening. It's an investment, but it's a smart choice which can help you save money and keep your food in good quality for longer.
Energy Efficiency
As a whole, side by side refrigerators consume less energy than models with bottom freezers. They also tend to cost less than French door refrigerators, and they can be less difficult to maintain as the doors open only just half as wide. You'll need to make sure that your kitchen is able to accommodate a water-and-ice dispenser. This will require a plumbing connector, which is difficult to install in smaller kitchens. The wide openings of the side by side fridge can make it difficult to store larger items.
Many manufacturers provide energy-saving features in their refrigerators that are side-by-side, such as adjustable shelves and LED lighting that makes food items visible even in the darkest areas of the freezer. Some models have separate cooling systems for the freezer and fridge sections. This can help cut down on food waste since it makes it easier to locate the most popular items and less likely that you'll throw them away in case you don't remember about them or they've spoiled.
You can also purchase an appliance that comes with additional features such as door-in-door access to drinks and snacks. This will not only help you save time, but also reduces energy consumption since cold air is confined from leaving the fridge. But you can also get an efficient side-by-side refrigerator with no extras for budgets and kitchens that prefer to keep things simple. Quincy Bulin is a writer and product expert at Lowe's and covers everything from the latest appliances to products for home improvement and trends. She's always ready to help you find the perfect products for your house. Simply ask!
Stores
A majority of side-byside refrigerators feature water and ice dispensers that are integrated into the freezer. This is an excellent option for those who want easy access to cold drinks and snacks. It is also convenient to wash dishes or to clean glasses. However, this also reduces the capacity of your freezer. Make sure that your refrigerator is sufficient for your needs.
Due to their vertical design, side-by side refrigerators have more storage capacity in the freezer than refrigerators with a bottom freezer. This means that you can put items that you use frequently on higher shelves while the longer-term frozen items can be stored lower down. The freezer has multiple shelving options, so you can organize it to meet your requirements.
Modern side-byside refrigerators have an elegant, premium design that improves the look of your kitchen. The two doors create a smaller footprint and less clutter when compared to other models of refrigerators. Some models have cooler drawers and controls for humidity and other model-specific features.
Some side-by-side fridges come with an Energy Star certification, which means they'll be less expensive on an average basis. If you're worried about your monthly energy bill they're an excellent option. The stringent requirements for obtaining this certification can increase the cost of a refrigerator bearing this label. This may not be a problem for some buyers but it is worth considering prior to making a purchase.