Buying a fridge guide: From size to design & more!

Easily one of the most important appliances in the home, a fridge is a significant purchase for any household which can make choosing one a rather overwhelming process.

Depending on your cooking and entertaining needs, the ideal model can range from a French door, a four door, a top or bottom mount, or a pigeon pair. And then there’s the extras like an external water dispenser that may be a non-negotiable? If you’re suffering with decision fatigue when it comes to a fridge purchase, you should know that you’re not alone. We caught up with e&s recently for the complete lowdown on all the things to consider when in the market for a fridge upgrade.

A external water dispenser may be an important factor to consider for your household. Image: e&s

Household size
A young couple will have different household requirements from that of a growing family, and this is especially the case when it comes to the fridge. Every family arrangement will have different cooking, storage and entertaining habits and requirements.

Ideally, your fridge’s capacity should align with the number of people in your household which usually means that younger apartment dwellers can typically choose a smaller capacity fridge to that of a family and vice versa.

Available space
The emergence of apartment living has led to kitchens shrinking in size, with butler’s pantries giving way to a more open aesthetic that brings together living, dining and cooking areas into one cohesive space. As a result, a standard top or bottom mount fridge might not always be the right fit for the kitchen, with modular options better suited when space is at a premium.

Of course, French doors, pigeon pairs or traditional top or bottom mounts are ideal choices when the kitchen has ample space for the fridge.

Design direction
Form and function go hand in hand, and once the household’s needs have been considered, design should be next on the list. Freestanding fridges are usually the mainstay in classic kitchens, while their integrated counterparts are ideal for contemporary spaces, concealed behind cabinetry when not in use. Looking to infuse a pop of colour in the kitchen? Coloured fridges are the way to go.

An integrated fridge always looks seamless. Image: e&s — An integrated fridge always looks slick. Image: e&s

Extra features to consider
Once considered a futuristic vision, modern technological innovations have ensured fridges are more efficient than ever before, with a slew of features simplifying use and enhancing convenience. External water dispensers and glass display doors are a great way to reduce how often a fridge is opened, while sliding shelves make it easier to store and access items.

The Sub-Zero PRO Series fridge has glass doors. Image: e&s — The Sub-Zero PRO Series fridge has handy glass doors. Image: e&s

Newer models also come with airflow systems that help maintain consistent temperatures no matter how often the fridge is opened. And those looking for a model that is easier to clean and maintain can choose from a range of black options too.

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