Side By Side Freezers Fridge
Side-by-side fridges have plenty of space to store food items. Some, such as our top choice from Forno come with counter-depth dimensions that are flush with the cabinetry, giving it a sleek, built-in appearance.
Other models also have freezer storage in different heights that can be useful for families with children or for anyone who is struggling to reach high shelves.
Size
The name suggests that side-by-side refrigerators have one refrigerator and freezer on each side. They usually have more capacity overall than models with top freezers or bottom freezers. They also have a narrower size and don't interfere with your walk like single-door refrigerators. This can be useful in kitchens that are cramped.
Because they're taller than other refrigerator styles Side-by-sides offer more storage space in the freezer, too. They typically have shelves and compartments that make organization simple, which allows you to keep the most frequently used items on your shelves in the refrigerator section, and long-term foods on higher, harder-to-reach shelves in the freezer. They can also include water and ice dispensers that let you easily access your drinks without opening the door to the freezer.
The freezers in these refrigerators use separate cooling systems that ensure the coldest, even temperatures, so that food stays fresher longer. They also have features that prevent food spoilage and loss including an water filtration system and air filters to reduce smells, and crisper drawers which absorb ethylene gas to slow the process of overripening.
A downside to this type of refrigerator is that it's not as efficient as top- or bottom-freezer models. This is due to the fact that they have a large vertical space to cool which can add to your energy bill. They're also less efficient in storing large objects than other models and might not be ideal for people with mobility issues, which can make bending difficult.
Convenience
Side-by-side refrigerators have slimmer doors that require less space to open than other refrigerators. This makes them a good choice for kitchens with limited space. Side-by-side refrigerators are larger than French door refrigerators, which typically 13 to 15 cubic foot for fresh food, and 8 to 9 cubic feet for freezers.
These refrigerators are also a good option for smaller homes or condominiums, where a larger fridge would occupy counter space. The primary drawback to these refrigerators is that they may not be large enough to accommodate some families' storage needs. Even everyday utensils and larger Thanksgiving meals might not fit. The possibility of rearranging shelves is there, but that can be time-consuming and may reduce the efficiency of the refrigerator.
Another drawback of side by side freezers is that they give in proportionally more space to freezer than the refrigerator and that could be a problem if you plan to regularly use deep freezers. There are ways to overcome this issue. Many models come with an ice maker separate from the refrigerator which allows you to enjoy chilled drinks without having to use the cooling system of your refrigerator.
You can pick an appliance that is independently controlled refrigerator and freezer compartments with features such as the Preserve Food System from KitchenAid for instance. It includes an air filter that prevents odors from forming and a mechanism within the drawers for crispers to absorb ethylene gas, which can delay the over-ripening of food items. It's a splurge but it's a smart investment that can save you money and keep your food in good condition for longer.
Energy Efficiency
Overall, side-byside refrigerators consume less energy than models with bottom freezers. They are also less costly than French-door refrigerators, and can be more easy to maintain since the doors open just half as wide. It is important to ensure that your kitchen is able to accommodate a water and ice dispenser. This will require a plumbing connector, which can be difficult to install in smaller kitchens. Furthermore, best side by side fridge freezer of a side-by-side fridge can make it more difficult to store taller items.
Many manufacturers provide energy-saving features in their side-by-side refrigerators including adjustable shelving and LED lighting that makes food items visible even in the darkest corners of the freezer. Some models also have separate cooling systems that monitor temperatures in the freezer and refrigerator sections which can reduce food waste by keeping the most popular items easily accessible and reducing the amount of frozen food items you throw away because you forgot about them or they've gone bad.
You can also get a refrigerator with extras such as door-in-door access for snacks and drinks. This is not just a time-saver but also reduces energy consumption because cold air is limited from escaping the fridge. However, you can also purchase a reliable side by side refrigerator that does not have any extras for kitchens that are budget-friendly and who prefer keeping things simple. Quincy Bulin, a Lowe's writer and expert on products, covers everything from household improvement products to most modern appliances. She is always available to help you find the right products for your home. Ask her!
Storage
A majority of side-by-side refrigerators include water and ice dispensers built into the freezer. This is a great choice to ensure you have easy access to cold drinks and snacks. It also makes it convenient to wash dishes or to clean glasses. This reduces the freezer capacity. Choose a refrigerator large enough for your needs.
Contrary to bottom freezer refrigerators side-by-side refrigerators have a greater storage capacity on the freezer side due to their vertical layout. This means you can keep items you frequently use on higher shelves while storing longer-term frozen goods lower down. The freezer also comes with a variety of shelves options, meaning you can organize it to meet your specific needs.
The majority of modern side-by-side refrigerators have a sleek, elegant design which enhances the appearance of your kitchen. The two doors provide a smaller footprint and less clutter compared to other refrigerator configurations. Some models also come with cooler drawers, humidity controls and other features based on the model.
Some side-byside refrigerators have an Energy Star certification, which means they'll cost less on the daily basis. If you're worried about your electricity bills, this makes them an ideal choice. However, the strict specifications required to earn this certification do increase the upfront price of refrigerators that have this label. This may not be a problem for certain consumers, but it's worth thinking about when purchasing.