A chest freezer allows you to keep food items that you don't use throughout the year, and cut down on trips to the grocery store. It can also make cooking at home more convenient.
Find models that are specifically designed for this type of environment. Also, choose a model that includes wire storage baskets to keep your food items in order.
Size
They are often located in outbuildings and garages They are perfect for those who want to stockpile bargains that can be frozen. They're usually less expensive than upright freezers, and offer more storage (around five bags) and cost less. This Currys own-brand model, for example is a good value, with a an adjustable lid that is easier to open than most. It is also equipped with an A+ rating for energy efficiency that means it's cheap to run.
For those who want to make more use of a chest freezer in their outbuildings, search for models with wire storage baskets that hang over the edge. They can take everyday items like chopped vegetables from the mess of frozen food. These are especially useful when freezing meat since it can be difficult to reach the top of your freezer.
Due to their size and footprint, many chest freezers are relegated to the basement or garage to conserve kitchen space. However, more manufacturers are making freezers that are specifically designed to stand up to the extreme temperature fluctuations of an outbuilding or garage. These models are usually sold as 'garage ready' and can withstand temperatures down to -22degC.
The size of freezer you buy will also be determined by the amount of space you have available, as well as budget. There are many great freezer deals to choose from but it's crucial that you choose the right one for you and your needs.
Think about buying a freezer equipped with a high temperature alarm if you plan to store it in a garage or outbuilding. This feature will inform you when your freezer has exceeded its safe temperature limit, which could occur if you don't close the door after filling it with food or if it accidentally gets warmer during defrosting. A lock on the freezer will stop unauthorized access. These options may seem insignificant however they can have a significant impact over time.
Convenience
Addition of an extra freezer in your home can help you save money on food items Buy up items that are on sale and cook food in the bulk to be used later. Despite their larger size, chest freezers can fit into tiny spaces in garages or outbuilding and be convenient for those who have limited storage.
Many people hesitate to buy a chest freezer due to the fact that they fear that it will be too large and difficult to manage or even get into. There are plenty of options that come with user-friendly features and come in a variety of sizes. This Northair chest freezer is among the smallest on our list however it is able to hold plenty of food items. It also has a lid that is easy to open and counterbalanced to ensure that you aren't tempted to close it accidentally as you go through the contents.
This GE model is a great option. It can handle temperatures up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, it offers the most storage of any freezer on this list. The door is wide and can be locked and the interior LED light helps you stay on track when it comes to finding your frozen treats.
They are easier to organize and look like refrigerators, but may not be able handle external temperatures as well as chest freezers. Some models, such as this one from Whynter have bins that aid in organization and let you customize the storage of your food items to maximize the capacity.
If you're considering a standing freezer, you should consider one with adjustable wire storage baskets that take everyday items out of the way of larger items, such as open bags of frozen vegetables or oven chips. Baskets in freezers can help you quickly find what you require and are usually better at handling temperatures outside than freezers that only have shelves. In addition, certain brands, like Beko and Russell Hobbs (a Currys own brand), offer freezers that are safe to operate down to -15C so they are ideal for cold garages or outbuildings. However, it is always advisable to check the warranty provided by the manufacturer since they may not cover freezers stored in cold areas.
Energy efficiency
A chest freezer is the most energy-efficient option of all freezer types. Its airtight seal helps preserve cold air, which conserves energy and lowers costs for utilities. Single-door freezers on the other side, are more likely to leak air which makes their compressors work harder to maintain a constant temperature. Many chest freezers come with low-frost technology which reduces the frequency of defrosting, and also reduces the cost of energy.
A chest freezer can help you save money by offering better insulation than upright models. This is crucial when it is kept in a garage, or in another location that could be extremely warm.
As far as storage is concerned chest freezers can be equally convenient and easy to access as upright models. Just remember that you'll have to bend and reach into them to retrieve your food This makes them ideal for people with mobility problems. Also, the majority of chest freezers require manually defrosted (you'll have to unplug the appliance, then open it up, and let the ice melt). If that sounds like an inconvenience, you can look for units equipped with wheels or drains built-in.
Freezers are notorious for using lots of electricity, and it is always advisable to search for a model that has a lower energy consumption, like chest freezers. On the label for energy or in the manuals of most models, you can find a consumption figure for each model, usually in kWh.
When you're looking for a chest freezer, it's important to know what climate class it belongs to before you buy. For instance, a fridge that's classified as class SN can store frozen food at temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius. This makes it a great choice for a garage or outbuilding.
It's worth looking through the numerous options available if you're looking for a chest freezer for your outbuilding. There's a chest freezer that is suitable for your needs, regardless of whether you need to store ice cream in the summer or freeze meals in advance for your busy family. A chest freezer is a good investment, due to its an efficient layout and energy-efficient construction.
Maintenance
It doesn't matter which freezer you choose. It is important that it is placed in an area where it is easily accessible. A garage or outbuilding is a great option. Be aware that chest freezers can suffer from damage if they are exposed to temperatures that are beyond their recommended range.
The good news is that more freezer manufacturers have spotted this problem and are making their products better suited to garages and outbuildings. Find freezers that are "garage optimized". These freezers come with specially designed compressors and a thick layer of insulation. They also feature triple-sealed seals to maintain the optimal temperature inside the freezer, even when it's extremely cold or hot. They typically include "garage ready" in the name of the product or list it as an option in their specifications.
Both upright and chest freezers require a bit of maintenance to ensure they are operating correctly. If you choose a chest model that requires manual defrost, it's going to require frequent cleaning of ice in order to prevent the freezer from freezing. However upright freezers are usually self-defrosting and have fewer components that may need maintenance over time.
To ensure proper ventilation, freezers should be at least six inches away from other appliances or walls. They should also have a half-inch of space behind them to ensure that they can be swept and cleaned if necessary. All freezers must be checked regularly to make sure that the door seal is not damaged and doesn't show signs of wear.
It's also recommended to regularly clean the freezer's condenser coils as well as its cooling fan. This will help prevent dust and pet hair as well as lint accumulation on the freezer, which may cause it to work harder. Be sure to disconnect the freezer prior to cleaning, and always make use of a long-handled bristle broom and a vacuum cleaner that is compatible with freezers. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives or household cleaners that may cause damage to the interior of the freezer. Before performing any maintenance on a freezer, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions.
