You can store extra food items in a chest freezer to use throughout the year and save time shopping. It also makes the cooking of batches easier.
Look for models specifically designed for this kind of setting. Also, look for one that has wire storage baskets that help keep foods organized.
Size
They are often found in garages and outbuildings, chest freezers are ideal for those who love to stockpile bargains that can be frozen. Typically, they are cheaper than upright freezers and provide plenty of storage (around five bags) for the price. This Currys own-brand model, for example offers a great value and an adjustable lid that is more accessible than the majority of. It also comes with an A+ energy rating, which means it is inexpensive to run.
For those who wish to make more use of the chest freezer in their outbuildings, search for models that have wire storage baskets that can be hung over the rim. These baskets can keep everyday items, like chopped vegetables, out of the mess of frozen food. They are particularly useful when freezing meat since it can be difficult to reach at the top of your freezer.
Due to their dimensions and footprint, the majority of chest freezers are relegated to the garage or basement to conserve kitchen space. However, more and more manufacturers are producing freezers specifically designed to stand up to the extreme temperature fluctuations of an outbuilding or garage. These models are marketed as "garage ready" and can handle temperatures as low as -22 degrees Celsius.
The size of the freezer you buy will also depend on how much space you have available and your budget. There are many great freezer deals available however it is essential to select the best one for your needs.
If you're planning to store your freezer in the garage or an outbuilding, consider getting a model that comes with an alarm for high temperatures. This feature will alert you if your freezer has reached the safe temperature limit. This could occur if, for instance, you forget to shut the door after having filled it with food. Also, if it becomes warmer accidentally during the defrosting process. It's also a good idea to purchase a freezer that has locks to prevent unauthorised access to your frozen goodies. These options may seem insignificant but they can have a significant impact over time.
Convenience
The addition of a freezer to your home can reduce trips to the store making it easy to purchase items that are on sale and let you prepare meals in batches to use later. Chest freezers are small and can be stored in smaller spaces, such as garages or outbuildings.
Many people are hesitant to purchase a chest freezer because they fear it will be too large and difficult to manage or even get into. However, there are many models that are built with user-friendly features and are available in a variety of sizes. This Northair chest freezer is among the smallest of this list, but it can hold a sizeable amount of food and has an easy-to-open lid and a counterbalanced design that prevents it from closing in the wrong way as you dig through its contents.
Another option that is worth considering is this GE model which can handle temperatures up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. It provides the largest storage space of any freezer on this list. The door is large and is lockable, and the LED inside keeps you on the right track when you're looking for your frozen sweets.
Upright freezers resemble a refrigerator and are easier to keep organized than chest freezers However, they may not be as good in handling temperatures outside. Some models, like this one from Whynter have bins that aid in organization and also allow you to customize the storage of your foods to maximize capacity.
If you are considering a standing freezer, consider one that comes with adjustable wire storage baskets that remove everyday items from the way of more bulky items, like open bags of frozen vegetables or oven chips. Baskets in freezers can help you quickly locate what you need, and they are often better at handling external temperatures than freezers with just shelves. In addition, certain brands, like Beko and Russell Hobbs (a Currys own brand) offer freezers that can operate safely even down to -15C. They are perfect for cold garage or outbuilding locations. It is crucial to confirm the warranty of the manufacturer since it might not cover freezers that are placed in unheated storage areas.
Energy efficiency
The chest freezer is one of the most energy efficient freezers. Its airtight seal helps preserve the cold air inside and decreases the cost of energy. Single-door freezers on the other side, are more likely to leak air, which causes their compressors to work harder to keep the temperature constant. A majority of chest freezers also feature low frost technology, which reduces defrosting frequency and reduces energy consumption even more.
Another way that a chest freezer can aid in reducing your energy costs is by being more well-insulated than its upright cousins. This is especially important when it is kept in a garage or some other area that is likely to be extremely warm.
As far as storage goes chest freezers can be just as convenient and accessible as upright models. Be aware that you'll have to bend down and reach into the freezer to grab your food. They aren't suitable for those with mobility issues. Additionally, most chest freezers must be manually defrosted (you'll have to unplug the unit, then open it up, and let the ice melt). If this sounds like an inconvenience, you can find models with built-in drains and wheels for easier movement.
Freezers are notorious for using large amounts of electricity, so it's a good idea to look for a model that has a lower energy consumption, such as a chest freezer. On the label for energy or in the manuals of most models, you will find the consumption figures for each model, typically in kWh.
It's important to know the climate class of a chest freezer prior to you purchase. For instance, a fridge that's class SN can store frozen food with temperatures of up to 10 degrees Celsius. This makes it a fantastic option for a garage or an outbuilding.
It's worth exploring the many options available for a chest freezer to fit your outbuilding. You're sure to find one that meets your needs, regardless of whether you're looking to store ice cream in the summer or even freeze meals in advance for a busy family. And, with an energy-efficient design and plenty of space, a chest freezer is an investment worth it.
Maintenance
It doesn't matter which freezer you choose. It is essential that it be placed in a place where it can be easily accessed. The garage or outbuilding are great options. However, be aware that certain chest freezers can suffer from damage if exposed to temperatures that fall beyond their recommended range.
The good news is that more freezer manufacturers have spotted this issue and are working to make their products better suited to garages and outbuildings. Find freezers that are "garage optimized". These freezers come with specialized compressors and thick insulation. They also have triple-sealed seals that keep the temperature at a comfortable level inside even when it's extremely cold or hot. They usually include "garage ready" in the name of the product or include it as a feature in their specifications.
Both upright and chest freezers require a bit of maintenance to ensure they are working properly. If you choose one that has manual defrost, it'll need to be regularly cleaned of ice to prevent the appliance from freezing over. Upright freezers on the other hand, are generally self-defrosting. They also have fewer parts that require maintenance over time.
To ensure proper airflow, freezers should be at least six inches away from other appliances or walls. Also, they should have an inch of space behind them that can be cleaned or swept as needed. Additionally, all freezers should be regularly checked to make sure that the door seal is still in place and isn't showing signs of wear.
It's also an excellent idea to regularly clean the condenser coils of the freezer and its cooling fan. This will prevent dust, pet hair, and lint from getting on the freezer and cause it to work harder than necessary. Be sure to disconnect the freezer before cleaning and always use a bristle brush with a long handle and a vacuum cleaner compatible with freezers. Avoid using freezer deals uk like abrasives and abrasives as well as chlorine bleach or other household cleaners as these could cause damage to the interior of the freezer. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions before performing any maintenance work on the freezer.
