Choosing the Right Freezer for Your Needs
When purchasing a new freezer, it's important to consider what type and size will best suit your household's needs. This guide will overview the main options to help you select the right freezer.
Upright vs Chest Freezers
The two main configurations for freezers are upright and chest. Upright freezers are taller with vertical shelving, while chest freezers have a top-opening lid like a cooler.
- Upright freezers are more convenient for frequently accessed items, as contents are visible and within reach.
- Chest freezers require some digging to find items, but are very space efficient and cost effective.
Capacity and Size
First determine the capacity you need. Look at freezer space you currently use and factor in any changing household needs.
| Freezer Type | Typical Sizes |
|---|---|
| Upright Freezer | 14 - 30 cubic feet |
| Chest Freezer | 5 - 20 cubic feet |
Measure the space where you plan to put the freezer. Leave some clearance around the unit for ventilation. An upright model needs ~15 inches of clearance.
Special Features
Modern freezers offer conveniences like:
- Automatic defrosting to prevent ice buildup
- Fast freezing setting to rapidly chill new items
- Interior lighting to see contents
- Adjustable shelves and drawers to customize layout
Look for the features that will be most useful for your household.
Energy Efficiency
An Energy Star certified freezer uses at least 15% less energy than non-certified models. Efficient compressors, gaskets, and insulation all help reduce electricity usage.
Compare the kWh/year rating to estimate operating costs. For example, an upright freezer that uses 352 kWh/year will cost around $42/year to run (at $0.12/kWh).
Popular Brands
Well-known freezer brands include:
- GE
- Frigidaire
- Whirlpool
- Samsung
- Maytag
Check reviews and ask friends for recommendations. also consider the warranty period - 5 years is fairly standard for freezers.
Use this guide to determine the ideal freezer configuration, size, features, and brand for your home. Proper selection will lead to years of reliable freezing and food storage.
Types of Freezers: Upright vs Chest and Manual vs Frost-Free
When selecting a new freezer, two key decisions are the configuration (upright or chest) and the defrost system (manual or frost-free). This guide explains the pros and cons of each type.
Upright vs Chest Freezers
Upright freezers are vertical units with front-opening doors, shelves, and baskets. Chest freezers open from the top like a cooler.
- Upright pros:
- Contents are visible and accessible
- Organized shelf storage
- Chest pros:
- Very space efficient design
- Less expensive for the same capacity
| Freezer Type | Typical Sizes | Price Range* |
|---|---|---|
| Upright | 14 - 30 cubic feet | $400 - $2000 |
| Chest | 5 - 20 cubic feet | $170 - $1000 |
*For new models, not including sales/promotions
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Manual vs Frost-Free Defrost
Frost-free models use a heating element to prevent ice buildup. Manual defrost requires periodically defrosting by hand.
- Manual pros:
- Lower purchase cost
- Slightly more efficient operation
- Frost-free pros:
- Convenience of no manual defrosting
- Prevents freezer burn on food
Most modern freezers are frost-free for convenience, but manual models can save money up front. Chest freezers more commonly come in manual versions.
Key Takeaways
- Choose upright for access or chest for value and space savings
- Manual defrost provides small savings but requires effort
- Frost-free offers convenience at a small operating cost
Consider your usage needs and preferences for configuration and defrost method when selecting a new freezer.
Freezer Capacity Considerations
When choosing a new freezer, an important factor is selecting the right capacity for your household's storage needs. Consider cubic footage, shelf space, and basket configurations.
Cubic Footage
The stated capacity of a freezer is its volume in cubic feet. Upright freezers typically range from 14 to 30 cubic feet. For chest freezers, 5 to 20 cubic feet is common.
- 14 cu ft = ~500 lbs storage capacity
- 20 cu ft = ~700 lbs capacity
- 30 cu ft = ~1000 lbs capacity
Evaluate your current freezer space and future needs. Allow some extra room for flexibility. You can utilize extra capacity with items like frozen fruits for smoothies.
Shelf Space
Upright freezers have adjustable shelves, while chest freezers use baskets. Measure key items:
- Pizza boxes: 16 inches
- Gallon milk jugs: 8 inches tall
- Frozen veggies: 11 inch bags
Ensure your freezer will fit commonly frozen items. Also account for odd-shaped foods like pizzas and cakes.
Basket Configurations
Chest freezers often include some combination of full-width and half-width baskets. Consider:
- Full-width for large items like turkeys
- Half-width for organizing smaller goods
- Total number needed for your volume of groceries
Some chest freezers allow adjusting or removing baskets as needed. Optimize for your typical frozen items.
Interior Adjustability
Look for adjustable shelves and baskets to customize as needed over time. This provides flexibility as your household changes.
Key Considerations
- Cubic footage based on household size
- Measure shelves for common items
- Basket types and adjustability
- Flexible interior layout
Determining the right freezer capacity upfront will ensure it accommodates your family's frozen storage needs.
Freezer Temperature Controls and Settings
Proper temperature control is crucial for freezers to keep food safely frozen. Key factors are the temperature range, adjustable thermostat, and special modes.
Temperature Range
The ideal freezer temperature is 0°F (-18°C). However, a temperature range between -10°F to 10°F (-23°C to -12°C) is generally acceptable.
- Colder is better for long term storage
- Some fluctuation is normal during defrost cycles
- Use a thermometer to monitor temperature
Avoid letting the freezer get above 10°F. Food will thaw and perishability will be reduced.
Adjustable Thermostat
Look for an adjustable thermostat or temperature controls. This allows customizing the coldness setting as desired.
- Turn down to maximize storage time
- Turn up to save energy if less freezing is needed
Digital controls make it easy to adjust the temperature. Check the range of settings available.
Fast Freeze Setting
Many freezers have a "fast freeze" or "turbo freeze" mode that rapidly drops the temperature. This is useful when adding large amounts of fresh food to quickly freeze it.
Energy Saver Mode
This mode raises the temperature slightly to save energy during times of less use, such as vacations. It reduces electricity usage with minimal impact on freezing performance.
Alarm and Monitoring
Higher end models may include:
- Door ajar alarm if left open
- Temperature display and high/low temperature warning
These provide peace of mind that the freezer is working properly.
Key Takeaways
- Target 0°F temperature for optimal freezing
- Adjustable thermostat offers customization
- Special modes for fast freezing or energy savings
- Alarms provide temperature monitoring
Choosing a freezer with precise temperature controls will allow dialing in the right setting for your needs.
Special Freezer Features
Modern freezers offer optional features that add convenience, customization, and capabilities beyond basic freezing. Common extras include fast freezing modes, Sabbath mode, and interior lighting.
Fast Freeze
A fast freeze setting rapidly drops the freezer temperature to quickly freeze newly added items. This prevents thawing of existing frozen goods.
- Lowers temperature for 24-48 hours
- Great for large fresh grocery loads
- Maintains food quality and texture
Sabbath Mode
This mode disables functions like interior lighting, alarms, and displays to comply with Sabbath prohibitions. Usually activated by holding buttons.
- Allows opening the freezer without turning anything on
- Adheres to religious practices and observances
- Automatically shuts off after 96 hours
Interior Lighting
LED interior lighting illuminates contents without needing to open the door. This makes finding items easier.
- Saves energy from door openings
- LEDs have long lifespan and are bright
- Located on top or sides to light entire cavity
Door Alarm
Detects a door left ajar and sounds an alarm to prevent warming and food spoilage.
Smart Features
High end models may integrate smart capabilities like:
- Smartphone notifications and remote temperature control
- Voice control operation using virtual assistants
- Diagnostic self-monitoring to call for repairs
Customization Options
Look for adjustable shelves and drawers, removable baskets, and flexible storage configurations to organize your frozen goods.
Special features like fast freezing, Sabbath mode, and interior lighting add convenience and capabilities beyond basic operation. Consider ones that suit your needs and preferences.
The Benefits of Amazon Prime for Freezer Shoppers
For frequent freezer buyers, an Amazon Prime membership provides a number of useful benefits to save money and enhance the purchase experience.
Free Shipping
Amazon Prime offers free two-day shipping on eligible items. This perk applies to most major appliances like freezers, removing the costs of delivery:
- Saves $50-$100 on typical freezer shipping
- Receive your new freezer quickly
- Avoid scheduling delivery and being home during a window
The convenience of free shipping makes buying large appliances much easier. No worrying about when it will arrive or taking time off work for delivery.
In-Garage Delivery
Select areas offer in-garage delivery with Key by Amazon. The freezer gets securely delivered inside your garage without you being home.
- No heavy lifting or complex coordination
- Delivered out of the weather
- Prevents theft and porch piracy
This premium delivery option provides additional convenience for large appliance deliveries.
Extended Returns
Amazon Prime members get extended return windows for most items. Freezers can be returned for a refund within 30 days of delivery.
- Ample time for testing and making sure it fits
- Return or exchange if any issues
- Full refund including any shipping fees
Worry-free returns give confidence when making a major appliance purchase.
Overall, a Prime membership provides free shipping, premium delivery options, and convenient returns that greatly benefit frequent freezer buyers. The savings and perks justify the annual fee for regular appliance shoppers.
