Finding the Right Freezer For You
Do you have a growing family or enjoy saving money by buying groceries in bulk? If so, a standalone freezer could be a beneficial kitchen appliance for your household. Freezers are a great way to preserve foods for long periods of time and allow you to keep plenty of it at hand for you and your family. The 2 types of freezers you can choose from are chest freezers and upright freezers.
Chest Freezer
Chest freezers open at the top like a trunk and come in a variety of sizes ranging from 3.6 cu. ft. to 25 cu. ft. With a design that allows the door to seal more tightly, chest freezers ensure food stays cold, even during power failures. They also hold more food per square foot than upright freezers, making chest freezers a great option for families who like to store large quantities of food.
Upright Freezer
Upright freezers feature a swing door and are styled like standard refrigerators. They range in size from 4.7 cu. ft. to 24.7 cu. ft. and take up less floor space than chest freezers, making them ideal for smaller areas. Shelves and drawers allow you to access food quickly, while a lighted interior provides optimal visibility and easy organization.
What to Consider When Choosing a Freezer
The 2 things you need to consider when purchasing a freezer are space and cost. If you're placing your freezer in a garage or basement, a chest freezer is perfect because you may have extra space available. Upright freezers tend to be more expensive than chest freezers; however, they're a great choice for people who are short on space or want their freezer to be in an easy-to-access spot.
Standard Freezer Features to Consider
ENERGY STAR qualified models provide high energy efficiency, while adjustable temperature controls let you decide the ideal climate for your freezer. Freezers generally include adjustable shelves or storage baskets to help you organize groceries quickly, and interior lights to find food in a flash.
Extra Freezer Features to Consider
There are a number of extra features to keep an eye out for when purchasing a new freezer. Magnetic door seals keep heat out, while door locks can be handy if you have small children. Some freezers also include a temperature alarm system that goes off when a temperature change occurs too quickly (usually caused by an open door).