what do i need to do when buying a new refrigerator

5 Must-Know Tips For Buying (and Using) a New Refrigerator

• 1. Find the right configuration: There are several basic styles, each with its own pros and cons. Models with the freezer above the fresh food compartment are typically the most energy efficient, but also tend to be the smallest. ...
• 2. Opt for Energy Star: Models bearing the blue Energy Star label use 20% less energy than comparable models of the same size. ...

Full Answer

What should one know before buying a refrigerator?

What to Consider When Buying a Refrigerator

• Look for the ENERGY STAR. ENERGY STAR is the simple choice for saving energy, saving money and helping to protect the climate.
• Consider a Refrigerator with a Top-Mounted Freezer. ...
• Purchase an Appropriately Sized Refrigerator. ...
• Consider the Features that are Most Important to You. ...
• Recycle Your Old Refrigerator. ...
• Take Advantage of Utility Rebates. ...

What are some tips for buying a new refrigerator?

• They're loaded with compartments that can keep groceries fresher longer. ...
• They’re equipped with a French-door-style fridge on top, a middle door that conceals a drawer for the items you reach for most, and a bottom freezer.
• They’re equipped with temperatures controls and beverage dispensers.
• Prices start at about $2,000.

What to look for when buying a refrigerator?

• Counter depth To give a built-in look without remodeling the kitchen, many new units are shallow, so they don't stick out past the countertops. ...
• High-tech models For a price, you can get a fridge with a television or digital picture frame in the door. ...
• Greater flexibility Fridges now come with more than one freezer compartment. ...
• Water and ice

What refrigerator should I buy?

Typically, a top-freezer refrigerator is the most basic and budget-friendly option, and is most suitable for anyone living in an apartment, RV, or smaller living space.

What is the first thing you should do when you buy a refrigerator?

Let it stand In transit, your appliance gets shaken around, so it's best to let everything settle before you plug it in. If it was transported upright, give it at least an hour before you plug it in. If it was transported on its side, turn it the right way up and leave it for at least four hours.

What do I need to know when buying a new refrigerator?

What to Consider When Buying a RefrigeratorLook for the ENERGY STAR. ... Consider a Refrigerator with a Top-Mounted Freezer. ... Purchase an Appropriately Sized Refrigerator. ... Consider the Features that are Most Important to You. ... Recycle Your Old Refrigerator. ... Take Advantage of Utility Rebates.

How long do you have to wait to put food in a new refrigerator?

After plugging the refrigerator in, wait two to four hours and verify that the unit is cooling before putting food inside.

Should a new refrigerator be cleaned before using?

When you receive your new refrigerator, you will want to wipe it down with a soft cloth and soapy water. Avoid using any chemical products– soap and water will work best. Wipe the inner walls and all the shelving.

What fridge brand is best?

Our Best Refrigerators of 2022 Rating#1 LG 26.2-Cubic-Foot Smart French Door LFXS26973 Refrigerator.#2 Samsung 27.7-Cubic-Foot Four-Door RF28R7551 Refrigerator.#3 Whirlpool 25.2-Cubic-Foot French Door WRF535SMH Refrigerator.#3 Café 27.8-Cubic-Foot Smart Four-Door CVE28D Refrigerator.

How much should a good refrigerator cost?

Refrigerators typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000, but prices vary based on the type of fridge you get. For example: A brushed steel Energy Star-certified fridge with a top freezer is around $500. A stainless steel Whirlpool model with French doors is about$1,900.

Can I just plug in my new fridge?

Once the unit is in the house you should: Leave the appliance to sit for 3 hours. Then plug it in and switch it on. It should then be left overnight to stabilize before putting any fresh food into it.

Why do you have to wait 24 hours to plug in a fridge?

The oil in a refrigerator protects the appliance's parts, working to ensure that the appliance does not break down or deteriorate when in constant use. Once 4 hours have passed, you can plug your appliance in.

What happens if you plug a fridge in too soon?

Its because the compressor lubrication oil could get into the cylinder of the compressor and if not given plenty of time to drain back into the oil sump at the bottom of the compressor, could cause major compressor valve damage on start up. 2 or more hours is a good rule to observe.

How do you transfer food to a new refrigerator?

Wait 24 hours after the temperature change before adding food or changing the temperature again, if needed. Move the dial counter-clockwise to lower the cooling or clockwise to increase cooling. With each further temperature adjustment, wait an additional 24 hours before adding food into the refrigerator.

How do you get the plastic smell out of a new refrigerator?

For best results, you need to unplug the refrigerator, leave the door open, and air it out for at least one day. If the refrigerator smells persist, wipe the interior down again with the baking soda solution and air it out for another day.

How long do you have to wait to put food in a new Whirlpool refrigerator?

24 hoursIf your Whirlpool refrigerator was recently installed it is recommended that you allow 24 hours for the refrigerator to achieve full functionality. This allows time for the Refrigerator to achieve the following: Correct Internal temperature. Properly chilled water.

What is the average lifespan of a refrigerator?

between 10 and 20 yearsMost refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you're having any of the other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you'll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge that's already on its way out.

What is the most energy efficient refrigerator?

Best Overall: Whirlpool 21 cu. ft. ... Best Budget: LG LTCS20020S 20 cu. ft. ... Best Splurge: LG LTCS24223S 33-inch Top-Freezer Refrigerator. ... Best Large: Dacor DRF36C000SR 36" Counter-Depth Free Standing Refrigerator. ... Best Small: Frigidaire FFET1022UV 10.1 cu. ... Best Smart: LG LMXS28596S 28 cu.

What are the signs of a bad refrigerator compressor?

How to Tell if Refrigerator Compressor Is BadThe compressor starts making an unusual or loud noise when running.The compressor turns on and off too frequently.The compressor turns off prematurely.The refrigerator is not cooling.The compressor overheats.Your electricity bills are too high.

What is the lifespan of a refrigerator compressor?

That said, modern compressors are both durable and efficient. Although plans for a replacement should start around eight years of service, a well-maintained compressor can reach to ten years and beyond.

Should You Load It Right Away?

Once you have your fridge turned one, give it another at least two hours to reach the right temperature before you place food inside. The right fridge temperature is crucial to its preservation ability, and you want to ensure that the food you put inside your new fridge will not go bad within the first few days.

Why is it important to know the way a fridge was transported?

Another vital aspect you need to consider is the way the fridge was transported because this can tell you the right time to turn it on. A fridge is usually transported either upright or on its side. The pipes in the fridge transmit gas and lubricant, and they need to settle before you switch the fridge on, that is if the fridge was transported ...

Can you turn on a fridge right away?

First, you need to remember that you shouldn’t turn it on right away. Instead, you need to find the right place for the fridge first, and it shouldn’t be in direct sunlight. Pick a spot in your kitchen where the fridge will fit, will not obstruct space, and in an area where it can regulate its temperature properly.

Is there a protocol for buying a fridge?

Buying a fridge is exciting, especially when it finally arrives at your home. However, many people don’t know that there is a proper “protocol” when it comes to using a new fridge.

1. Inspect, inspect, inspect!

Just like with any major delivery, you’ll want to be certain you don’t have any missing pieces or issues before signing for the delivery. “Refuse the shipment if it’s in any way damaged,” Boscherini says.

2. Make sure you have an extension cord

Ask the manufacturer or store how long the fridge’s cord is. If the cord length is a problem, given the distance from the outlet, you’ll need to have an extension cord. Ask the same pro to suggest a specific cord, as you might need something special to handle the amount of amps your fridge will draw.

3. Air it out

Once the machine is in place and plugged in, you might want to leave the door open for a little bit while it cools down (before you put any food inside, of course). Leaving the door open will help to get rid of the “new car smell” that usually accompanies any new appliances.

4. Set the dial

Check the settings for the fridge and freezer (you should find the dials for both in the fridge somewhere). “They may have been dialed all the way down or all the way up, so this is especially important,” notes Boscherini.

5. Adjust the shelves

There are limitless configurations for all those shelves and baskets that come with your fridge. Think about how and where you like to store things and map out a plan that makes sense for you and your family.

When is it time to replace a refrigerator?

If you are happy with your current refrigerator, it’s a good idea to use it until it starts to malfunction. You may notice it emitting odd clicking or rumbling sounds (a sign the AC components are struggling), or features like the water dispenser or lights will stop working.

How can you make sure a new refrigerator will fit?

Always measure before you buy! Take a tape measure and measure the width and height of your fridge space — don’t measure the fridge itself, as the space is far more important. If there is any chance of drawers or doors bumping into the fridge, you’ll want to measure the depth as well. Then you’ll know what to look for when researching fridge models. Every fridge should have its dimensions recorded in the specs section of the product page (or the product card if you are shopping in person).

How much does a new fridge cost?

The cheapest fridges are generally $800 to $1,000, although small fridges can go even lower. More standard refrigerators starts at around $1,500 to $2,500. Larger models with lots of smart features can cost several thousand dollars or more. You can check our guide on the best refrigerators to get an idea of current price ranges.

Should you buy a fridge online?

You certainly can. Many websites have an excellent collection of fridge models, including Best Buy, Lowes, Home Depot, and more. Refrigerators don’t usually hold many surprises, so shopping online tends to be a safe option and an easy way to compare prices.

Does refrigerator style matter?

As long as the model fits in your kitchen’s dedicated space, it’s really up to you. It’s a good idea to explore other styles, although some may work better for your needs than others. Common options include:

What smart features are important on fridges?

Quality of life smart features can be a major advantage when using a fridge. Look for things like the ability to monitor the inside temperatures and control them with an app, advanced temperature sensors in each section of the fridge, or doors that will automatically seal or sound alarms when left ajar. Many fridges also let you connect to them via Wi-Fi to get alerts about replacing filters or running diagnostics. Quick-chilling sections are also a nice bonus.

What do I need to do for the installation?

We highly recommend adding an installation package to your purchase for a small fee, which includes delivery, attachment, and carting away your old fridge, saving you a lot of trouble.

Why does my fridge feel warm?

Feeling a warmer temperature change whenever you put your hand to the back of your refrigerator is not uncommon. However, feeling excessive amounts of heat is an obvious sign that something is not right within your fridge. The coils in the back of your fridge are insulated, which should keep you from feeling too much heat.

What to do if your refrigerator is not defrosting?

If you find yourself in this situation, the first thing you should do is defrost the freezer. Once you have done this, plug it back in and monitor how it acts. If the problem continues to arise, then it may be time to consider getting a new refrigerator. Since many newer units have an automatic defrosting feature, this problem is becoming less common. But nonetheless, it’s a problem that needs to be taken care of as soon as you possible no matter how old or new your fridge is.

How to solve continual iceberg problem?

Another possible solution to consider, is to buy an extra freezer to store your frozen necessities. Not only will this solve your continual iceberg problem, but it can save you lots of money in the long run.

How old is a side by side refrigerator?

The style of fridge you have can also play a big part in spotting signs that it’s time to replace it. If your side-by-side refrigerator is older than five years old and in need of constant repairs, it’s time to consider buying a new one. It’s best that bottom freezers be replaced after seven years ...

How to tell if your freezer is frozen?

Your Freezer Has Become a Winter Wonderland. One of the most common signs you may notice, is that your freezer is starting to resemble an iceberg. While you obviously want a freezer to keep your food in its intended frozen state, it’s not normal for you to have to chisel ice off just so you can reach your bag of peas.

What is the coil on the back of a refrigerator?

The coils in the back of your fridge are insulated, which should keep you from feeling too much heat. If you notice this in your refrigerator, it would be wise to call a repair technician to inspect your coils. Depending on the situation and the problem at hand, replacing the coils could be an option for you to consider.

How old should a fridge be?

If your current fridge is older than ten years old and you’ve got the money to afford a new fridge you see available at a good price, you should at least consider buying it. Assuming, of course, that you’ve already done the proper research and compared similar models.

What Refrigerator Size Do You Need?

To determine the ideal storage capacity for your new refrigerator, evaluating the size of your family is a great start, but since a refrigerator’s lifespan is around 13 years, it’s also important to look ahead to the future. Mainly, will your family be growing soon? In addition, are you one to host dinner parties often? The answers to these questions may lead you toward a refrigerator with extra storage space.

What is LG 22.5?

Product Suggestion: Going beyond the call of duty, the spacious LG 22.5 Cu. Ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator (LRMVC2306 S and LRMVC2306D) offers luxury-tier amenities, like the dual ice maker that creates slow-melting, round Craft Ice™; the Full-Convert™ drawer with five temperature settings; ThinQ® Technology with Proactive Customer Care; and the tinted InstaView™ Door-in-Door® glass panel that is illuminated after two swift knocks.

Which refrigerator has the most storage?

As we mentioned in “ Our Favorite Large-Capacity Fridges for Big Families ” blog, French-door refrigerators and side-by-side refrigerators offer the most storage capacity of all freestanding refrigerator types. Side-by-side refrigerators, specifically, are a great option for families who purchase groceries in bulk. With a freezer that takes up roughly half of the appliance, you can expect side-by-side fridges to hold more of your frozen-food favorites, including meats, ready-to-cook meals, ice cream, and dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets.

How much space does a refrigerator need?

For reference, each adult needs approximately 4 to 6 cubic feet of refrigerator space. That said, industry experts assess that a typical family of four needs at least 20 cubic feet of capacity to house a healthy amount of groceries. These factors and more are what you need to consider before choosing your refrigerator size.

What is a Samsung 26.7?

Product Suggestion: The Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator (RS27T5561SR and RS27T5561SG) is beautifully designed with a minimal display dispenser, modern design that blends beautifully into your kitchen and a finish that withstands everyday smudges. In terms of maximizing storage, this Samsung refrigerator is stocked with adjustable shelves, an in-door ice maker, and gallon door bins. But perhaps most conspicuously, this fridge also displays an interactive Family Hub™ control panel that allows you to surf the web, create family memos, listen to music—and more.

How many people can fit in a refrigerator?

Top-freezer, bottom-freezer, French-door, and side-by-side refrigerators are all viable options for households consisting of 3 or 4 people; however, if you have a family of four, we recommend exploring French-door refrigerators and side-by-side refrigerators, as these models start at around a mid-sized capacity.

When should you consider counter depth refrigerator hinge height?

If you’re considering a counter-depth refrigerator, the hinge height should be considered when measuring your space and narrowing your selection.

Why does my fridge keep buzzing?

It's Too Loud. Most refrigerators emit a gentle hum, but if your appliance has recently started buzzing lo udly, the motor might be struggling to work properly. Try unplugging the fridge and plugging it back into the socket. If the buzzing doesn't stop, your fridge is probably dying.

Why is my fridge silent?

A completely silent fridge, coupled with warm food, points to a damaged compressor. Unplug the fridge and plug it back in, then check your home’s electrical panel to make sure a breaker didn’t flip. If the issue persists, it’s time to call a repairman or start looking for a new model.

Why does my fridge use so much electricity?

An outdated fridge uses excessive amounts of electricity as it tries to maintain a suitable temperature. Homeowners can plug in an energy usage monitor between the fridge and the outlet to determine how much wattage the fridge is drawing and estimate monthly utility costs.

How long does a refrigerator last?

The refrigerator is a major investment and an absolute necessity. If you splurge for a high-quality model, this household staple can last as many as 10 to 15 years, but eventually every fridge will reach the end of its life span. Learn the warning signs of a …. By Glenda Taylor.

Why is the back of my refrigerator hot?

The Back of the Fridge Feels Hot. Because of the location of the motor, the back of a refrigerator typically feels warmer than the sides or the front. But if the rear exterior surface radiates a large amount of heat, the motor may be running too hot.

What temperature should a refrigerator be kept at?

Food safety standards dictate that perishable items should be kept at a temperature of 40 degrees or cooler, so first check the temperature adjustment knob to ensure it’s set correctly.

What happens when a refrigerator is near the end of its life cycle?

When a refrigerator nears the end of its life cycle, maintenance-related problems will start to multiply. Instead of shelling out big bucks for repairs, consider investing in a brand-new appliance. You’ll end up saving money in the long run with a more reliable model—and you'll give your handyman a break to boot.

Why does it take so long for a fridge to turn on?

Your fridge was transported on its side: If the fridge was transported on its side, it will take a little longer before you can turn it on because there is some shifting and adapting involved before the internal parts settle down. Generally, fridges transported in this manner follow the four-hour mark before you turn it on.

How long does it take for a refrigerator to turn on?

Generally, fridges transported in this manner follow the four-hour mark before you turn it on. In the case of some other fridges, an even longer wait time of 24 hours may be required because of how intricate systems can be! 2. Manufacturer’s recommendations.

Can you put food in the refrigerator?

Sure, it might seem tempting to put your food inside because you waited so long for it, but it’s best to hold back first because what you do in your first few moments will have a lasting impact. In fact, the very first things that you do with your refrigerator can lead to a smoother experience or one filled with repair bills and hurdles because it’s a rather sensitive piece of equipment!