How to Choose a Refrigerator Refrigerators are kitchen appliances used to keep food and beverages cold. They are commonly used in homes and in hotels, offices and dorm rooms at colleges. Some refrigerators are equipped with smart features like cameras and sensors. Some refrigerators have touchscreens that allow you to watch videos, search for recipes, look up family calendars and shopping lists, or leave notes for family members. Temperature Control The right temperature for refrigerators keeps foods safe for storage, slowing the deterioration of many food items due to spoilage. This is particularly important with food items like eggs and milk which are susceptible to rotting at room temperature however, they remain stable in refrigerator temperatures. Refrigerators are also widely used to store pharmaceutical products such as vaccines and drugs that become less effective over time. Refrigerator monitoring systems are in place to ensure that a medical facility or laboratory keeps a safe cold chain. A refrigerator has an internal thermal insulation to keep its contents colder than the surrounding temperature. It utilizes an energy source to transport warm air out of the refrigerator into an insulated compartment, where it becomes very cold. The refrigerator has a control system which turns on the cooling system if its internal temperature is higher than a preset threshold. This stops the growth of bacteria in the refrigerator. Each of the refrigerator zones is designed to serve a distinct purpose. The bottom shelves are perfect for perishables like fresh meats and vegetables that require the lowest temperature to keep their texture and flavor. Keeping the shelves clear allows cool air to circulate throughout the refrigerator. Keep soft cheeses and cured food items in a separate drawer for deli for the perfect charcuterie tray. Some refrigerators have doors made of stainless steel or glass to protect the interior. They also make it easier to clean. Some refrigerators include a door-alarm that can be programmed. It will notify you if the fridge freezer is not closed for too long. They can be set to notify multiple people and in escalating levels based on your requirements. You can set them up to send temperature graphs via email or text. Many refrigerators come equipped with thermometers however for those who don't, a stand-alone appliance thermometer is an inexpensive way to monitor the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator. It is important to monitor the refrigerator and freezer temperature frequently, particularly during power outages or if the temperature settings are changed manually. Ideally, both the refrigerator and freezer should be set at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Capacity of Storage The capacity of your refrigerator is a key factor in deciding on the model that will best suit your requirements. There are a variety of sizes to choose from that range from small models with a capacity less than 15 cubic foot to large models with a capacity over 26 cubic feet. Take into consideration your family's cooking preferences and the number of people living in your home to determine which size is suitable for you. For two people with a family of two, an average of 11 to 13 cubic foot of refrigerator space is adequate for a household of two. For a family of three, 18 to 22 cubic feet is recommended. Check the depth of the fridge, as well as the total space. Some models are shallower than others, which allows them to fit in tight spaces without taking up too much space under your counters. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are another option, and have an overall depth that is the similar to the typical kitchen cabinet front (though handles might protrude a bit further). These are a good option for those with limited counter space. They can also appear more sleek. When buying a refrigerator, inquire about its noise level and energy consumption. There are many manufacturers that offer quieter options for residential use, while others offer refrigerators that use less electricity than similar models. You can determine the energy consumption average of a particular model by examining the yellow Energy Guide label. Also, test the model's operation by opening and closing the doors. The pantry drawer is usually a full width section of the refrigerator, with separate temperature controls. It can be used to store various items. These drawers are particularly useful for storing party trays as well as wine, since they allow you to store them at a specific temperature. Based on the model, these drawers may have pre-programmed settings for wines, deli meats and soft drinks. Energy Efficiency Refrigerators use a lot of energy. That's why it's crucial to have one that is energy efficient. The good news is that refrigerators have improved in energy efficiency in the past. The insulation, motors and magnetic door seals of a modern refrigerator will use less energy than a refrigerator that is of the same size. It is possible to reduce the energy consumption of your refrigerator more by purchasing an energy efficient model. A refrigerator with an Energy Star rating will use less energy than a model at least ten years old. Energy efficiency is especially important for consumers with limited access to the grid for electricity. Refrigerators are typically one of the most expensive appliances for households that are off grid, and their high energy consumption means that they require huge solar home systems (SHS) that are not affordable for many families earning $2 per day or less. The energy consumption per year of refrigerators is an important factor to determine whether it's cost-effective for consumers to purchase and operate. (PATH and WHO 2013 ). McCarney et. and. 2012). We'll begin by explaining the fundamental refrigeration cycle. The refrigerator cools down by pushing a refrigerant fluid through a sealed system. It begins as a liquid, and then goes through the compressor that compresses it to form the form of a vapor. fridge uk is then pumped into coils on the outside of the refrigerator where it draws heat from the fridge, settling down before turning back into a liquid. This process is repeated many times, keeping the food cold while the vapor moves through the coils. Although refrigerators are among the most expensive appliances available to off-grid consumers, increasing their energy efficiency makes them more affordable. By cutting down on the amount of energy they use it is possible for a refrigerator to be powered by a smaller SHS and reduce overall system costs for consumers. The savings in energy are contingent on the size, style and features of the refrigerator. Ice-makers and water dispensers through the door, for example can be costly, but can increase the energy consumption of the refrigerator, which increases the amount of SHS required to run it. Maintenance The life span of a refrigerator can be significantly improved by regular maintenance and inspection. Examine the condenser, defrost drain and ice maker. Also, check the seals on the door. In addition, cleaning and replacing water filters are essential. These easy maintenance tasks will ensure the longevity of your refrigerator and save money on your energy bills. Cleaning the inside of your fridge regularly is the easiest and most efficient way to keep it in good condition. This includes throwing away old food items and wiping down shelves and crispers, walls and inside the doors of your refrigerator and freezer. This will eliminate unpleasant odors and lower the chance of contracting food-borne illnesses. A fridge thermometer is a good option to monitor the temperature of your fridge regularly. If your refrigerator is not properly maintained can be subject to temperature fluctuations that can lead to food spoilage and a higher cost of electricity. It is also essential to clean the condenser coils in your refrigerator twice a year to get rid of any dirt, dust, hair, grime, and other debris that may have been accumulating. These coils, which are basically radiators that remove heat from the refrigerator are located in the rear or bottom of the appliance. They aren't able to disperse heat as efficiently when they're dirty. Your refrigerator will require more energy to run. Another thing to check regularly is your refrigerator's gasket that is designed to create an air-tight seal between your refrigerator and your home's ductwork. This is crucial to ensure your fridge's contents remain cool But over time, the seal can become worn down from greased fingerprints, sticky syrups and dripping drinks. Clean your fridge's seal with the help of a damp towel to keep it in good shape. Lastly, it is an ideal idea to clean the drip pan, which is usually located under the refrigerator's compressor unit. The pan is used to collect water from the refrigerator's defrost cycle. It should be cleaned regularly to prevent the development of mold and unpleasant smells.
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