Side By Side Freezers
Fridge Freezers Side By SideSide-by-side refrigerators offer ample space to store food items. Some, like our top pick from Forno have counter-depth dimensions which are flush with the cabinetry to create sleek, built-in style.
Other models offer freezer storage that is adjustable in height, which can be helpful for
side by side Freezer families with children or anyone who has difficulty to reach high shelves.
Size
Like their name suggests, side-by-side refrigerators have a freezer on one side and a fridge on the other. They tend to have a larger overall capacity than models with top freezers or bottom freezers. They are also smaller and don't block your path like single-door fridges which can be useful for kitchens with smaller spaces.
Because they're higher than other refrigerator models Side-by-sides are able to provide more storage space in the freezer, too. They typically have shelves and compartments that make organization easy, keeping often used items at eye-level in the refrigerator and long-term foods on shelves that are higher,
side by side freezer more difficult to reach in the freezer. They may also have water and ice dispensers that let you quickly access drinks without opening the freezer door.
The refrigerators have separate cooling systems for freezers to ensure that food is fresher for longer. And they come with features to avoid loss and spoilage. These include a hydration station, air filters to control smells, and crisper drawers that absorb ethylene gas to delay the over-ripening of vegetables and fruits.
A downside to this type of refrigerator is that it's not as energy efficient than bottom or top-freezer models. They have a greater vertical volume that needs to be chilled, which can increase your energy bill. Additionally, they are less efficient than other models in storing large items. They may not be suitable for those who have mobility issues and are unable to bend.
Convenience
Side by side refrigerators have slimmer doors that require less space to open than other refrigerators. This makes them a great choice for kitchens with a limited space. Side-by-side refrigerators typically have a greater capacity than French door refrigerators, too generally 13 to 15 cubic feet for fresh food, and 8 to 9 for the freezer.
These refrigerators are also an excellent option for small homes and condominiums, where a larger fridge could take up counter space. The biggest drawback with these refrigerators is that they may not be big enough to meet some families' storage needs. Larger holiday meals or large containers might not be able to fit or even everyday utensils may not be able to fit into the refrigerator. It is possible to arrange shelves, but that can take a while and may affect the efficiency of the refrigerator.
The other drawback of a
side by side freezer is that it assigns more room to the freezer than to the refrigerator. This is a concern if you are using a deep freezer often. There are ways to overcome this potential disadvantage. Many models include a separate ice maker that allows you to serve chilled drinks without using the cooling system of your refrigerator.
Pick a model that comes with separate freezer and refrigerator sections. For instance the Preserve Food System by KitchenAid features an air filter that helps reduce odors and a system to absorb ethylene to delay the ripening process. It's a costly purchase, but a smart one that can save you money and keep your food in good condition for longer.
Energy Efficiency
Overall,
side by side freezer-byside refrigerators use less energy than bottom-freezer models. They also cost less than French door refrigerators, and can be easier to maintain since doors are just half as wide. However, you'll need ensure that your kitchen can accommodate an ice and water dispenser, which requires plumbing connections that can be harder to install in narrower kitchens. The bigger openings on a side by side fridge may make it more difficult to store taller items.
Many manufacturers offer energy saving features in their side-by-side refrigerators. They have adjustable shelves and LED lighting to keep food visible, even in the darkest corner of the freezer. Some have separate cooling systems for the freezer and fridge sections. This can help cut down on food waste as it allows you to find things that are popular and less likely that you will throw them away accidentally if you don't remember about them or they have spoiled.
You can also buy a refrigerator that has extras like door-indoor access to drinks and snacks. This is not just a time-saver and energy, but it also reduces consumption as the cold air is limited from getting out of the fridge. You can also choose a side-by-side refrigerator without extras if you're on a tight budget or if your kitchen is basic. Quincy Bulin is a writer and product specialist at Lowe's where she writes about everything from the most recent appliances to new home improvement products and trends. She is always happy to help you find the perfect products for your house. Contact her!
Stores
A majority of side-byside refrigerators feature ice and water dispensers built into the freezer. This is a great feature if you like having easy access to cold beverages and snacks, and also an efficient method of washing dishes or clean glasses. But, it also reduces capacity for freezers. Select a refrigerator that is adequate for your requirements.
Due to their vertical design, side by side refrigerators have a larger storage capacity in the freezer than refrigerators with a bottom freezer. This lets you store items that you use frequently on the higher shelves, while freezing food items that will last longer on the lower shelves. The freezer has a variety of shelves to choose from, allowing you to arrange it to suit your requirements.
Modern side-by-side refrigerators feature sleek, modern design which enhances the appearance of your kitchen. The two doors result in smaller footprints and less clutter when compared to other models of refrigerators. A lot of models include more crisp drawers, humidity control and other features based on the model.
Some refrigerators that are side-byside are Energy Star certified, meaning they'll cost you less per day. If you're worried about your energy costs, this makes them an ideal choice. However, the rigorous requirements that are required to obtain this certification will add to the upfront price of a fridge with this label. This may not be a problem for certain buyers, but it's worth considering when making your purchase.
