How to Choose the Right Refrigerator for Your Kitchen

Finding the right refrigerator for your kitchen is more than choosing an appliance—it’s about picking something that fits your space, meets your needs, and looks great too. While it might seem like a big decision, it shouldn’t be complicated.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to pick the right refrigerator, featuring top recommendations from Mountain High Appliance.

The Basics: Understanding Refrigerator Types

Refrigerators come in different shapes and sizes, but not every type will suit your kitchen or lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which style is best for you:

1. Top-Freezer Refrigerators
Top freezers, also known as top-mount refrigerators, are a classic choice for many households. They’re budget-friendly and offer plenty of storage, with the freezer on top and the refrigerator below. This design works well in smaller kitchens, but if you’re tired of bending down to grab fresh food, you might want to consider other options.

2. Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators
Bottom-freezer refrigerators are a great option if you want easy access to fresh food. With the fridge section at eye level, you won’t have to bend as much to reach your groceries. The freezer is located underneath and often features a pull-out drawer for convenience.

3. Side-by-Side Refrigerators
Side-by-side refrigerators split the fridge and freezer sections vertically, giving you equal access to both. This style is perfect for narrow kitchens where door swing space is limited. However, their narrow compartments might make it tricky to store wide items like pizza boxes.

4. French Door Refrigerators
For those who want it all, French door refrigerators combine the benefits of bottom-freezers and side-by-side models. With two doors for the fridge on top and a pull-out freezer drawer below, they offer ample storage and modern features like smart connectivity. Plus, they look fantastic in any kitchen.

5. Built-In Refrigerators
Built-in refrigerators are the epitome of luxury. These fridges fit flush with your cabinetry, offering a customized, high-end look. Built-ins can be tailored to match your kitchen perfectly in styles like side-by-side, French-door, or even column designs.

Key Features to Consider When Buying a Refrigerator

Once you’ve figured out the type of refrigerator you need, it’s time to think about features. These must-haves will make your daily life easier and keep your kitchen running smoothly.

1. Storage and Capacity

Think about how much space you need. Are you shopping for a large family or just yourself? Look for adjustable shelving, door bins, and drawers that let you customize your storage. Some refrigerators even have special compartments for deli items, produce, or beverages to keep everything organized.

2. Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient refrigerators aren’t just good for the environment—they’re good for your wallet, too. Models with the ENERGY STAR® label are designed to use less electricity, which means lower utility bills. Look for features like LED lighting and smart temperature controls to maximize energy savings.

3. Smart Technology

Welcome to the future! Smart refrigerators connect to your Wi-Fi and offer cool features like touchscreens, voice control, and internal cameras that let you see what’s inside without opening the door. These features are convenient and can help you easily manage your grocery list and meal planning.

4. Ice and Water Dispensers

If you love a cold drink, an ice and water dispenser is a must. Look for models with built-in filtration systems to ensure your water is always clean and fresh. Some dispensers even offer different ice options like crushed ice or have settings for specific water measurements.

Measure Your Space—Then Measure Again

Before you fall in love with a fridge, make sure it’ll fit in your kitchen! Here’s how to get it right:

1. Width, Height, and Depth

Measure the space where your refrigerator will go, paying attention to width, height, and depth. Don’t forget to consider the door swing—especially important if your space is tight.

2. Clearance Space

Your refrigerator needs room to breathe. Make sure there’s at least an inch of space around the sides and back for proper ventilation.

3. Door Swing and Walkway Space

Ensure there’s enough room for the refrigerator doors to open fully without hitting anything. You don’t want to block walkways or other appliances.

4. Delivery Path

Think about how the fridge will get into your home. Measure doorways, hallways, and staircases to ensure the delivery team can navigate your space without issue.

Stuck on this step? Download Our Helpful Measuring Guide

Top 5 Mountain High Refrigerator Recommendations

At Mountain High Appliance, we carry a wide range of refrigerators to suit any kitchen. Here are our top picks:

1. Sub-Zero 36" Designer Over-and-Under Refrigerator/Freezer

(Model: DET3650CIIDL)

This 36-inch refrigerator is ideal for those who want a sleek, custom look in their kitchen. The bottom freezer includes an ice maker, while the internal water dispenser keeps the front looking clean and streamlined. Sub-Zero’s dual cooling systems ensure that your fresh food and frozen items are kept at optimal conditions, reducing spoilage and keeping everything tasting its best.

Highlights:

• Dual cooling systems for optimal freshness

• Hidden water and ice dispenser

• Customizable panels to match your kitchen design

• Advanced air purification system to keep food fresher longer

2. Thermador 36" Built-In French Door Refrigerator

(Model: T36FT820NS)

If you’re after a spacious fridge with a modern design, Thermador’s 36" Built-In French Door model is an excellent choice. The flexible shelving and adjustable bins make organizing your groceries a breeze. With advanced temperature management and Wi-Fi connectivity, this refrigerator ensures your food stays fresh while you stay connected.

Highlights:

• Spacious French door design

• Adjustable shelving and bins for flexible storage

• Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring

• ENERGY STAR® certified for energy efficiency

3. GE Profile 27.9 Cu. Ft. Smart 4-Door French Door Refrigerator

(Model: PVD28BYNFS)

For families who need extra storage and love the convenience of smart features, this GE Profile 4-Door French Door refrigerator is a fantastic option. It offers a door-in-door design for easy access to frequently used items, plus a convertible drawer that can switch between fridge and freezer modes. The in-door water dispenser is sleek and saves space, while the Turbo Cool and Turbo Freeze settings keep your food at the perfect temperature.

Highlights:

• Door-in-door design for quick access

• Convertible drawer for flexible storage

• Turbo Cool and Turbo Freeze settings for quick temperature adjustments

• Smart features, including remote monitoring and notifications via the GE Appliances app

4. Bosch 800 Series 36" Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator

(Model: B36CT80SNS)

Bosch’s 800 Series French Door refrigerator is perfect for those looking to combine style with efficiency. Its counter-depth design fits seamlessly into your kitchen layout, while the VitaFreshPro™ feature automatically balances temperature and humidity to keep your fruits and vegetables fresher and longer. The MultiAirFlow™ system ensures even cooling throughout the fridge, and the interior LED lighting illuminates every corner.

Highlights:

• Counter-depth design for a built-in look

• VitaFreshPro™ to maintain optimal storage conditions

• MultiAirFlow™ for even cooling

• LED lighting for a bright, easy-to-see interior

5. Whirlpool 36" Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice and Water Dispenser

(Model: WRS588FIHZ)

This Whirlpool Side-by-Side refrigerator offers a spacious interior with plenty of room for all your groceries. The in-door ice and water dispenser adds convenience, and the Accu-Chill™ Temperature Management System makes sure your food stays at the right temperature. The refrigerator’s sleek design includes fingerprint-resistant stainless steel.

Highlights:

• Side-by-side design with plenty of storage

• In-door ice and water dispenser

• Accu-Chill™ Temperature Management System

Find Your New Refrigerator at Mountain High

Choosing the right refrigerator is all about balancing style, space, and functionality. At Mountain High Appliance, we offer a wide selection of refrigerators to fit any kitchen and lifestyle.

Contact us or visit one of our appliance store location in Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs, Littleton, Louisville, or our clearance center in Denver. Explore our options and find the perfect refrigerator for your home. Let our experts help you make the right choice today! We offer top brands like Kitchenaid, Maytag, Cafe Appliances, Frigidaire, and more.

FAQs: Picking the Perfect Refrigerator

How do I choose a good refrigerator?

Start by considering your space, budget, and storage needs. Decide on the type (like French door or side-by-side), then look for features like energy efficiency, smart technology, and adjustable storage. Reading reviews and comparing brands can also help you find a reliable model.

How big should my refrigerator be for a family of four?

For a family of four, look for a refrigerator with at least 18 to 22 cubic feet of space. You might want to go even bigger if you cook a lot or like to keep plenty of fresh produce on hand.

What should I avoid when buying a refrigerator?

Avoid choosing a refrigerator based solely on price. Make sure it fits your space and has the features you need. Also, steer clear of brands with consistently poor reviews or models with frequent repair issues.

What is the lifespan of a good refrigerator?

A well-maintained refrigerator typically lasts 10 to 15 years. High-end brands like Sub-Zero can last even longer, sometimes up to 20 years or more.

What’s the difference between standard-depth and counter-depth refrigerators?

Standard-depth refrigerators stick out a bit from your counters, offering more storage space. Counter-depth models are designed to sit flush with your counters for a built-in look, but they typically have less interior space.

Can I install a built-in refrigerator in my current kitchen?

Yes, but you might need some modifications to your cabinetry. Built-in refrigerators are designed to fit seamlessly with your cabinets, so precise measurements and potentially custom paneling are necessary for a perfect fit.

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