Proportionally, side by side refrigerators have more freezer space than French door fridges. Freezer storage can also be easier due to the top to bottom shelving options. Shelving on both sides means that items can generally be accessed without needing to bend deeply or dig through stacked containers to find what you're looking for.
Full Answer
Are French doors better than side-by-sides refrigerators?
French door refrigerators have more refrigerator capacity by about 12%. Correspondingly, side-by-sides have more freezer space. French doors have more lateral space for storage, whereas side-by-sides have more organized space. If you have more platters, you are better with a French door.
Are side-by-side refrigerators better than fridges?
The side-by-side reliability is typically better because the ice cube is sent through the freezer compared to the refrigerator of the French door. Sending a frozen cube through a warmer refrigerator can cause leaks. At least that's what I thought. The numbers proved otherwise. Side-by-side's have similar problems with ice-makers and dispensers.
Are French door refrigerators more energy-efficient?
French door refrigerators are more energy-efficient primarily due to their design. Since you open one side at a time, only one side needs to cool back down instead of the entire fridge.
What is the difference between 4 door and 5 door refrigerator?
4-Door French Door - Four-door refrigerators are a newer French door. The bottom right freezer can be a refrigerator or freezer in certain manufacturers. 5-Door French Door - KitchenAid only has the most doors for different foods in regular depth. Side-by-sides are available in counter depth as well as regular as well in one basic style.
Is a side by side or French door fridge better?
A French door refrigerator may be best if you like to keep lots of fresh ingredients on hand, or if you often store wide or oversized dishes. A side by side refrigerator features more freezer capacity and lets you store both fresh and frozen items at eye level.
Do French door refrigerators have more problems?
Using Consumer Reports data as well as its own claims data, Safeware says French door units are more susceptible to damage than all other types of refrigerators.
Are side by side fridges outdated?
Side-by-side refrigeration has been in growing demand partly because of the ease of it. With this type of fridge, it keeps the most-often-used items at eye level. Home buyers and builders have more options than ever to meet nearly any lifestyle and style preference.
Are side by side refrigerators worth it?
Side-by-side units help you conveniently store items from top to bottom, allowing you to effectively arrange commonly accessed ingredients or beverages at the top for easy access. You won't need to bend down to grab everyday items the same way you would for a bottom or top mount model.
What are the disadvantages of a French door refrigerator?
Cons of a French Door Fridge Door storage in French door refrigerators can be quite narrow, forcing you to use the main space for items like large beverage containers. If you often dine on prepackaged meals or other freezer items, the bottom drawer might be less convenient for you to access regularly.
Do you lose space with French door refrigerator?
0:492:43French Door Refrigerator Vs Side by Side Refrigerator: What's Better for ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you lose a lot of space on the door here so you don't quite get as much space in a freezer in aMoreAnd you lose a lot of space on the door here so you don't quite get as much space in a freezer in a side by.
How long should a side-by-side refrigerator last?
Keeping It Like New If you like it side-by-side, this type of refrigerator is not going to let you down any more than other frosty food keepers on the market. With an estimated life span of 8-12 years, most major reliable brands function pretty well with regular maintenance.
What are the best side by side refrigerators for 2021?
Best Overall: Samsung Family Hub Smart Refrigerator at Home Depot. ... Best Budget: Amana 36-Inch Side by Side Refrigerator at Home Depot. ... Best for Small Kitchens: Whirlpool 36-Inch Counter-Depth Side by Side Refrigerator at Home Depot. ... Best Counter-Depth: ... Best Large Capacity:
Are side by side refrigerators more efficient?
Refrigerators are one of the biggest consumers of energy in homes, so efficiency is an important consideration. Side-by-side fridges are less efficient because of the relative location of the freezer to the compressor.
Why are French door fridges better?
The French door approach also tends to be slightly more efficient while in use, because you only need to open one door to get things in and out. Make a habit of that, and your fridge won't lose nearly as much cold air as you use it, and it won't need to work as hard to maintain its target temperatures.
What are the pros and cons of French door refrigerators?
Pros and Cons of a French Door RefrigeratorPros. These are a few of the pros you can expect from owning a French door refrigerator.Easier Access to Food. ... No More Banging into Cabinets. ... Wider Shelves. ... More Useful Top Shelf Space. ... Big Door Bins. ... A Deeper Drawer Freezer. ... Cons.More items...•
Can you fit a pizza box in a side-by-side refrigerator?
Yes you can fit a pizza box.
Which French door refrigerator has the least problems?
The most reliable French door refrigerators Whirlpool is the top choice for a reliable French door refrigerator brand, according to the J.D. Power's report. KitchenAid and Samsung follow in second and third place, respectively.
What are the pros and cons of French door refrigerators?
Pros and Cons of a French Door RefrigeratorPros. These are a few of the pros you can expect from owning a French door refrigerator.Easier Access to Food. ... No More Banging into Cabinets. ... Wider Shelves. ... More Useful Top Shelf Space. ... Big Door Bins. ... A Deeper Drawer Freezer. ... Cons.More items...•
What is the average life of a French door refrigerator?
Depending on model and size, a properly maintained refrigerator can last between 14 and 17 years.
Why are French door refrigerators better?
The French door approach also tends to be slightly more efficient while in use, because you only need to open one door to get things in and out. Make a habit of that, and your fridge won't lose nearly as much cold air as you use it, and it won't need to work as hard to maintain its target temperatures.
What is a French door refrigerator?
French door refrigerators vary in size and configuration, but always include a top refrigerator compartment with double doors that open outward, ar...
What is a side-by-side refrigerator?
Side-by-side refrigerators feature two tall, narrow compartments that span the full height of the unit, with one side dedicated to the refrigerator...
What are the differences between French door and side-by-side refrigerators?
Aside from more obvious configuration differences, there are a handful of distinctions between French door and side-by-side refrigerators that you...
What are the pros and cons of French door vs. side-by-side refrigerators?
The strengths and weaknesses of each configuration largely depend on your kitchen’s unique needs, and the choice ultimately comes down to preferenc...
Is French door or side-by-side better for my kitchen?
The best fit for your home ultimately takes budget, size, storage, features and your family’s unique needs into account. An affinity for fresh food...
What’s the difference between side by side and french door refrigerators?
Side by side refrigerators are a classic style with top-to-bottom freezer and refrigerator compartments next to each other. French door refrigerato...
What are the pros and cons of french door refrigerators?
This contemporary refrigerator design is popular for its spacious, pantry-style layout that provides easy access to fresh ingredients. The wide ref...
What are the pros and cons of side by side refrigerators?
This classic refrigerator style offers vertical storage with plenty of shelves for both refrigerator and freezer compartments. Freezers also tend t...
Which style is best for my kitchen—french door or side by side refrigerator?
A French door refrigerator may be best if you like to keep lots of fresh ingredients on hand, or if you often store wide or oversized dishes. A sid...
What Are French Door Refrigerators?
Since the 1990s, French door refrigerators have been a popular choice among homeowners who like a contemporary look. Designed to resemble the French doors of a house, these refrigerators have double doors that open outward in the middle.
Pros and Cons of French Door Refrigerators
Wide shelves. French door refrigerators have wide shelves to give you plenty of room to store larger items. Whether you have boxes of leftover pizza or large platters of food, these refrigerators are roomy enough to allow you to store them comfortably.
What Are Side By Side Refrigerators?
Side by side refrigerators have two tall, narrow compartments—one for the refrigerator, and the other for the freezer. These compartments both span the height of the refrigerator, and some models may have ice and water dispensers built in.
Pros and Cons of Side By Side Refrigerators
Large freezer capacity. If you need to freeze a lot of food, side by side refrigerators have roomy freezers to accommodate your needs. In addition, the design of the freezer allows you to keep certain items at eye level, making them easy to access and hard to forget about.
Find an Experienced Kitchen Contractor
No matter which kind of refrigerator you ultimately choose for your home, at some point you’re probably going to need help with installation and maintenance. Or maybe your fridge choice is just one piece of a bigger kitchen remodel. Modernize can connect you with experienced contractors.
What is the difference between a French door refrigerator and a side by side refrigerator?
Other differences include the amount of refrigerator and freezer space offered by each configuration, as well as the shape of each compartment. Side by side fridges give you two tall but narrow compartments while French door fridges provide shorter but wider spaces. Both models tend to come with a wide range of features such as exterior ice ...
WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF FRENCH DOOR REFRIGERATORS?
French door models tend to offer some of the largest refrigerator capacities in the industry, allowing you to keep more fresh ingredients on hand for your next masterpiece.
What is a customizable kitchenaid?
Customizable interiors: This style frequently offers adjustable shelves and compartments to accommodate the items you store most. Select KitchenAid ® models feature slide-away shelves to accommodate taller items or pull-out trays for large platters.
What is the best refrigerator for storing food?
A French door refrigerator may be best if you like to keep lots of fresh ingredients on hand, or if you often store wide or oversized dishes. A side by side refrigerator features more freezer capacity and lets you store both fresh and frozen items at eye level.
What is side by side refrigerator?
A side by side refrigerator features more freezer capacity and lets you store both fresh and frozen items at eye level. Both types of refrigerators are available in standard- or counter-depths, as well as freestanding or built-in installation styles.
What is Kitchenaid's side by side refrigerator?
KitchenAid offers a full lineup of side by side refrigerators with features designed to keep your food organized and fresh. Select models feature the Preserva ® Food Care System. Its two independent cooling systems help keep food fresh while the FreshFlow ™ Air Filter minimizes odors, and the Produce Preserver delays over-ripening based on commonly purchased produce.
Does Kitchenaid refrigerator have ice dispenser?
Exterior ice and water dispensers: This is a common feature on both types of refrigerators. Select KitchenAid ® models feature the In-Door-Ice ® System that adds interior room in the refrigerator with an ice bin that mounts on the inside left door to allow for extra space on the shelves.
What is the difference between a French door and a side by side refrigerator?
Aside from aesthetics, what really separates side-by-sides and French doors is the way they make use of the space inside. For starters, French door models typically offer a little more room in the fridge section than comparable side-by-sides. The two GE models I've been testing are a pretty good example -- both offer about 25 cubic feet of total storage space, but the French door model's fridge compartment is about 2 cubic feet bigger than the one in the side-by-side.
Why do French doors have side by side shelves?
You can keep short-term groceries on the high, easy-to-reach shelves, for instance, while leaving long-term frozen goods down below. In a French door, everything just tends to pile up together, and you'll always need to stoop down a little bit to get things out.
What is the best way to open a fridge?
Side-by-side and French door fridges both tend to be good picks for narrow kitchens since neither one requires you to open a door that runs the full width of the fridge. By splitting things down the middle, the doors only need to swing out half as far. The French door approach also tends to be slightly more efficient while in use, because you only need to open one door to get things in and out. Make a habit of that, and your fridge won't lose nearly as much cold air as you use it, and it won't need to work as hard to maintain its target temperatures.
Do refrigerators lose air?
Make a habit of that, and your fridge won't lose nearly as much cold air as you use it, and it won't need to work as hard to maintain its target temperatures. Aside from aesthetics, what really separates side-by-sides and French doors is the way they make use of the space inside.
Do refrigerators come with bells and whistles?
Aside from the occasional model with a door-in-door compartment, they don't typically come with a whole lot of bells and whistles. Model to model, what usually ends up setting them apart from one another is the size, the efficiency and the cooling performance. Those last two can be tricky to evaluate as you comparison shop -- but hey, that's where fridge testers like me come in. More on that front in just a bit.
Does warm air rise side by side?
Side-by -sides like this one will sometimes struggle to keep consistent temperatures from shelf to shelf. Warm air is less dense, so it "rises" to the top -- and there's more room for it to rise in a side-by-side.
Is the French door refrigerator better than the side by side?
As for the French door model, it performed better than the side-by-side , but not by as much as you might expect. At the default setting, temperatures ran warm throughout the entire right door -- a common trouble spot for French door models. The average temperature on the refrigerator's top shelf was also notably warmer than the rest of the fridge, eking up above 40 at the default setting. One small consolation -- dialing down to the coldest setting fixed that problem. The same can't be said of the side-by-side
How many doors does a French door fridge have?
A basic French-door fridge has three doors, but there are now several four-door and even five-door models to choose from. On the Samsung RF28R7351SG, for example, a smaller, full-width drawer above the freezer called the "FlexZone Drawer" can be set to four different tempertures for storing deli, soft drinks, meat, and wine. The Frigidaire Gallery FG4H2272UF and LG LMXS30776S have a similar drawer that can double as fridge or freezer.
What is a bottom freezer?
ADVERTISEMENT. Bottom-freezers are just the reverse of a top-freezer, but the freezer draws pulls out like a drawer rather than a swinging door. Side-by-side refrigerators place the refrigerator and freezer next to one another, each spanning the top to the bottom of the unit. The fridge is typically larger, so the door is slightly off-of-center. ...
What is a French door refrigerator?
French-door refrigerators are arranged like a bottom-freezer, but with two refrigerator doors that open from the center-out, in the style of a French door. See our Best French-door Refrigerators. Unlike dishwashers and ovens, which are quite standardized in their dimensions, all refrigerator styles vary in width, height, and depth.
What is a Haier HRQ16N3BGS?
The Haier HRQ16N3BGS is an example of a four-door French door in a quadrant-style.
What are the pros and cons of a freezer?
Pros and cons: Side-by-side 1 Much of the freezer food at eye level 2 Larger freezer space 3 Typically less expensive
How many types of refrigerators are there?
Before getting into specific features, it's good to be able to simply recognize the various fridge types by their shape. There are four main styles of refrigerators. Top-freezers are efficient and inexpensive but tend not to have many features and are somewhat lacking in the aesthetics department. See our Best Top-freezer refrigerators.
Is French door fridge growing?
French-door fridges are on the upswing, growing in market share each year. As such, there are a lot of options to choose from.
Why are side by side fridges so popular?
Pros of a Side by Side Fridge. Side by side fridges are another popular choice for both traditional and modern kitchens due to their classic appearance. Here are some common reasons people opt for this style: Their slim shape means it can fit comfortably, even in smaller kitchen spaces.
What is a side by side fridge?
Side by side fridges are well-suited for those who might have limited width in their kitchen to work with, as well as for those who may have trouble bending to get to the items in their fridge or freezer.
What Is a French Door Fridge?
Like French doors in a home, a French door refrigerator has double doors that open at the middle to reveal wide shelving inside and a freezer drawer that slides out underneath. Some of the higher end options contain built-in water and ice dispensers, and others (like Samsung styles) offer options with touch screens and even smart hubs.
What are the best side by side refrigerators?
Side by side fridges are another popular choice for both traditional and modern kitchens due to their classic appearance. Here are some common reasons people opt for this style: 1 Their slim shape means it can fit comfortably, even in smaller kitchen spaces. 2 Proportionally, side by side refrigerators have more freezer space than French door fridges. Freezer storage can also be easier due to the top to bottom shelving options. 3 Shelving on both sides means that items can generally be accessed without needing to bend deeply or dig through stacked containers to find what you're looking for. 4 More sizable door storage means larger containers (like gallons of milk or liter bottles of soda) can be set to the side within the door.
What is the storage space in a French door refrigerator?
Door storage in French door refrigerators can be quite narrow, forcing you to use the main space for items like large beverage containers. If you often dine on prepackaged meals or other freezer items, the bottom drawer might be less convenient for you to access regularly.
Do side by side refrigerators have more space?
Their slim shape means it can fit comfortably, even in smaller kitchen spaces. Proportionally, side by side refrigerators have more freezer space than French door fridges. Freezer storage can also be easier due to the top to bottom shelving options.
Is a French door refrigerator good?
French door refrigerators are an extremely attractive option for the kitchen, and for good reason. Here are just a few of the benefits of a French door refrigerator:
What is the difference between a French door refrigerator and a French door refrigerator?
The biggest visual difference between these refrigerators is the placement of the freezer. Most French door options have at least one lower drawer that stores frozen items. Some models have multiple drawers below the fridge that are temperature controlled, from chilled to frozen. The side-by-side refrigerators have vertical fridge and freezer space with shelving.
Why are French door refrigerators so efficient?
Since you open one side at a time, only one side needs to cool back down instead of the entire fridge. The effect is that less energy is needed to keep the refrigerator cool on a daily basis.
What is side by side refrigerator?
The side-by-side refrigerators have vertical fridge and freezer space with shelving. Both types of refrigerators are readily available in black, white, and stainless steel. The rising popularity of French door refrigerators has given them the added benefit of being available in many finishes, such as slate 1, bisque, and black stainless steel.
Why does my freezer bend down?
Bending problems. With the freezer placed on the bottom of French door refrigerators, problems may occur for those suffering from back pain. Having to bend down every time you need to get to the freezer can agitate existing issues and even cause pain for those who do not normally have problems.
How much does it cost to install a refrigerator?
Costs. The installation for both refrigerators is the same and costs around $150. If the refrigerator has an ice maker or water dispenser, then a dedicated water line is necessary. Installing that will add an average of $140.
Where are freezers stacked?
However, this means that your freezer items are in the drawer below, stacked on top of each other, and hard to access. This is a potential problem for anyone who frequently uses their freezer. Side-by-side options not only have freezers at eye level, but they also have shelving, making frozen foods more accessible.
Is a refrigerator a must have?
A refrigerator is a must-have for every home, but there are many things to consider before deciding on the perfect option. Two popular choices are side-by-side and French door refrigerators. While both have their benefits, deciding which one suits you can be difficult. Here are points to consider before your purchase.
What is a French door with a drawer?
Have a look: French Door With a Drawer - This style has a drawer at the bottom of the refrigerator. For some manufacturers, that drawer can also be a freezer or refrigerator. 4-Door French Door - Four-door refrigerators are a newer French door. The bottom right freezer can be a refrigerator or freezer in certain manufacturers.
Why is side by side reliability better?
The side-by-side reliability is typically better because the ice cube is sent through the freezer compared to the refrigerator of the French door. Sending a frozen cube through a warmer refrigerator can cause leaks. At least that's what I thought. The numbers proved otherwise.
How deep is a French door refrigerator?
Sizes are available in counter depth up to about 23 cubic and regular to nearly 30 cubic feet.
Why are counter depth refrigerators better than conventional refrigerators?
Counter-depth refrigerators look better in the kitchen because they do not protrude into your kitchen.
Why do refrigerators have dual zones?
Dual zones to keep the warmer, moister air of the refrigerator separate from the colder, drier air of the freezer. Both types have brands offering the dual-zone. Learn More: Counter Depth Refrigerator Buying Guide.
How many different types of counter depth refrigerators are there?
There are three different types of counter depth refrigerators, all available in side-by-side or French door styles.
How many people have read Yale Counter Depth?
Well over 580,000 people have read a Yale Guide.
What is a French door refrigerator?
French Door refrigerators may well be in vogue right now, but there’s still a lot to be said for the Side by Side fridge. They split the storage space vertically down the middle, usually with the chilled section on the right-hand side and the freezer on the left. This means food can be stored at any height on either side to minimise bending down for frequently-used ice cream items. Most models favor the chilled section and offer it a few extra inches width compared to the freezer side, making it slightly easier to store wider items there.
How much does a French door refrigerator cost?
Prices in our best French Door refrigerators 2020 round-up range from between $1,500 and $3,000, ...
Is it better to have a freezer drawer or a fridge?
Having the freezer drawer situated down below is sometimes seen as a minus point, as it requires bending to rummage for items at the bottom, but reference to user reviews and opinions reveals this can be a plus. “Most people use the fridge more often than the freezer. Having the freezer below the fridge reduces the amount of bending over you have to do, which is a big ergonomics upgrade,” is one such opinion. While, “it's easier to see everything you have, because you get kind of a bird’s eye view,” is another view in favor of drawer-style freezers.
Is a French door fridge better than a side by side refrigerator?
Although French Door fridges tend to offer more storage capacity in the chiller, there are still some benefits to the Side by Side layout. For instance, Side by Sides tend to have a more even split between refrigerator and freezer space, which is good if you store a lot of frozen food.
Is a freezer wide enough for a refrigerator?
The freezer is not wide enough for them to fit, so you have to clear out enough space to wedge the thing in vertically, or diagonally.”. Others highlighted the ergonomic challenge presented by top-to-bottom storage in the chiller side, “80% of the time I’m opening it up to get something from the refrigerator.
Is a French door refrigerator more expensive?
French Door refrigerators tend to be more expensive, but overall they offer increased features, more capacity and the ability to store wider items easily. However, if something goes wrong it could be an expensive fix and some find the freezer positioning awkward. (Image credit: Electrolux)
The Styles of Refrigerators
French-Door Variations
Side-by-Side Variations
- Virtually all side-by-side refrigerators are the same design. While they vary in height, width, and depth, the arrangement doesn't vary. The freezer, as far as we can determine, is always on the left and the fridge is always on the right.
Pros and Cons: French-Door
- French-door fridges are on the upswing, growing in market share each year. As such, there are a lot of options to choose from. Pros 1. Wide shelves for food items, including pizza boxes and baking trays 2. Wide range of size, finish, and feature options 3. Puts all refrigerator items at eye level Cons 1. Typically the most expensive type of freestanding (non-install) refrigerator 2. Freez…
Pros and Cons: Side-by-Side
- Pros 1. Much of the freezer food at eye level 2. Larger freezer space 3. Typically less expensive Cons 1. Narrow shelf space may present problems for frozen pizzas and baking trays 2. Requires bending over to access parts of both fridge and freezer 3. Because of their size, the temperatures in the fridge and freezer will vary more greatly from top ...