Refrigerators (sometimes called a fridge) are kitchen appliances that keep food and drinks cold. They are commonly used in offices, homes, hotels and college dorms.
Some refrigerators have smart features, such as sensors and cameras. Others have touchscreens to allow you to watch videos, browse recipes, look up family calendars and shopping lists, or even leave notes for family members.
Control of Temperature
The right temperature for refrigerators ensures that food items are safe for storage which slows down the degradation of many food items due to spoilage. This is especially important for foods like eggs and milk that are susceptible to rotting at ambient temperatures, but remain stable in refrigerator temperatures. Refrigerators can also be used to store pharmaceuticals such as medications or vaccines which lose their effectiveness as time passes. Monitoring systems for refrigerators can help ensure that a medical facility, laboratory or other establishment maintains the cold chain.
The internal thermal insulator of a refrigerator keeps its contents cooler than the surrounding air. It utilizes a heat pump to move warm air outside the refrigerator into an insulated compartment where it is extremely cold. The refrigerator also has a temperature control system that switches on the cooling system if its internal temperature rises above the threshold set by the manufacturer. This prevents bacteria from forming inside the refrigerator.
Each refrigerator zone is designed for a different purpose. The lower shelves are ideal to store perishables such as fresh vegetables and meats which require the minimum temperatures to preserve their flavor and texture. Keeping the shelves clear allows cool air to circulate throughout the refrigerator. Keep soft cheeses and cured items in a separate drawer for deli for the perfect charcuterie tray.
best fridge uk feature glass or stainless steel doors to protect the interior and allow for easy cleaning. Some refrigerators also include door alarms that can be programmed to notify you if the doors to the freezer or fridge are left open for too long. They can be programmed to notify multiple people in escalating levels based on your needs. They can also be programmed to record temperature and send graphs remotely via text or email.
The majority of refrigerators come with thermometers however, for those that don't, an independent appliance thermometer is an inexpensive method of monitoring the temperature of your freezer and fridge. It is essential to check the temperature of the fridge and freezer often, especially if there has been a power failure or if you manually altered the temperature setting. Ideally, both the refrigerator and freezer should be set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Storage Capacity
The capacity of your refrigerator is a crucial factor in deciding on the model that best suits your needs. There are a variety of sizes available including small models that have a capacity of less than 15 cubic foot to large models that can hold more than 26 cubic foot. To figure out the size you require, think about the cooking habits of your family and the number of people in your home. For two people, an average of 11-13 cubic feet of refrigerator space is enough for a household of two. For a family of three, 18 to 22 cubic feet is recommended.
Take a look at the depth of the fridge, as well as the total space. Certain models are deeper than others, which allows them to fit in small spaces and not take up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth fridges are also an option. Their depth is similar to the depth of a typical kitchen cabinet, but the handles can extend a bit more. They are a great choice for areas where counter space is limited and can look more sleek than traditional refrigerators.
When buying a refrigerator, ask about its noise level and energy consumption. There are many manufacturers that provide quieter refrigerators for residential use. Some offer refrigerators with lower electricity consumption than similar models. Take a look at the yellow Energy Guide label on appliances to learn about the typical energy usage for a specific model. Also, test a model's operation by opening and closing the doors.
Most modern refrigerators include the pantry drawer, which is a full-width compartment with separate temperature controls that can be used to store a variety of objects. These drawers can be used to store party trays as well as wine and other things at a certain temperature. These drawers can be programmed to hold wine, deli foods, and soft drinks, depending on the model.
Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators consume a lot energy. Therefore, it is important to select a refrigerator that is energy efficient. The good news is that refrigerators are becoming more energy efficient over time. The insulation, motors, and magnetic door seals on a modern refrigerator consume less energy than a refrigerator that is similar to its size. You can reduce the electricity consumption of your refrigerator even more by purchasing one that is energy efficient. A refrigerator that is Energy Star-rated will use less energy than an equivalent model ten years old or older.
Energy efficiency is particularly important for those who have no access to the grid for electricity. Refrigerators are typically among the most costly appliances for households that are off grid and their large energy consumption means they require large solar home systems (SHS) which aren't affordable for many families earning $2 per day or less. The energy consumption of a refrigerator is therefore a crucial aspect in determining if it is affordable for consumers to purchase and operate (PATH and WHO 2013; McCarney et al, 2012).
To understand how fridges work, we start with the basic refrigeration cycle. A refrigerator cools down by pushing a refrigerant liquid through a sealed system. It begins as a liquid, and goes through the compressor, which compresses it to form the form of a vapor. This vapor flows into coils that are outside the fridge and draws heat out of it. It then cools down, and turns back to liquid. This process is repeated several times, ensuring that the food remains cold while the vapor flows through the coils.
Refrigerators are still one of the most expensive appliances that consumers who live off grid can buy however, improving their energy efficiency can make them more affordable. By cutting down on the amount of energy they consume, a refrigerator can be powered by less energy and lower the overall cost of the system for consumers. Energy savings differ based on the dimensions, design and features of a refrigerator. For example, ice-makers and through-the-door water dispensers increase cost but may significantly increase the refrigerator's energy use which, in turn, increases the amount of SHS needed to power it.
Maintenance
The life span of a refrigerator can be significantly improved by regular maintenance and inspection. This can be accomplished by inspecting the condenser coils, the ice maker, defrost drain and the gasket seal on the door to make sure it is in good condition. Cleaning and changing water filters is essential. These simple tasks can ensure the longevity of your refrigerator and save money on your energy costs.
The simplest and most efficient refrigerator maintenance task is to wash the interior of your refrigerator regularly. This means throwing away old food items, wiping down shelves and crispers, walls and interior of the refrigerator's doors. This will reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and unpleasant odors. A fridge thermometer is recommended to check the temperature of your refrigerator regularly. A refrigerator that isn't properly maintained could experience temperature fluctuations, which could cause food spoilage and an increase in your cost of electricity.
The condenser coils in your refrigerator should also be cleaned at least twice a year. This will remove any dirt, grime, hair or other debris that has accumulated. These coils, which are essentially radiators that help remove heat from the refrigerator, are located at the bottom or back of the appliance. When these are dirty, they won't be able to disperse heat as effectively, and your refrigerator will use more power to run.
Another thing you should be checking regularly is your refrigerator's gasket, which is designed to form an airtight seal between your fridge and your home's ductwork. This is essential to ensure your fridge's contents remain cool But over time, the seal may wear down by greasy fingerprints, sticky syrups, and dripping drinks. To keep the gasket of your refrigerator in good condition, often clean it with a an aqueous cloth.
In the end, it's a good idea to clean the drip pan, which is usually located under the refrigerator's compressor unit. The pan is used to collect the water that is drained from the refrigerator's defrost process. It should be cleaned regularly to avoid the growth of mold and unpleasant odors.
