LARGE CAPACITY REFRIGERATOR BUYING GUIDE
Whether you’re constantly whipping up new recipes or cooking for a crowd, extra refrigerator space can be convenient. With a large capacity refrigerator, you can stay stocked on fresh ingredients to make your favorite meal on a moment’s notice. Read more to learn what to look for when buying a large capacity refrigerator.
WHAT IS A LARGE CAPACITY REFRIGERATOR?
Large capacity refrigerators provide more storage space than typical refrigerators. Although there is no industry standard for what constitutes large capacity, these refrigerators are often 36” wide with a capacity of 22 - 30 cu. ft. If you’re running out of refrigerator room, it’s time to consider a large capacity refrigerator.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STANDARD AND LARGE CAPACITY REFRIGERATORS?
Not surprisingly, the difference between standard and large capacity refrigerators is the size of each appliance. Standard refrigerators are typically anywhere from 26” - 35” inches wide and usually have plenty of space for a family of four. If you have a larger family, entertain frequently or are an avid cook, a large capacity refrigerator can make all the difference.
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A LARGE CAPACITY REFRIGERATOR?
There are a number of factors to keep in mind when buying a large capacity refrigerator. The most important of these is dimensionality: what size and total capacity would fit best? Additionally, ask yourself how much freezer space you require. You should also think about the layout of your kitchen and where you would place the refrigerator.
1. CAPACITY
Capacity will depend on the model. Large capacity refrigerators will offer anywhere from between 22 - 30 cu. ft. of space inside. This will allow you to better organize the items in your refrigerator. A good rule of thumb is that, once your refrigerator no longer stores enough ingredients and food to meet your cooking needs, you need more capacity.
2. KITCHEN SPACE
The best large capacity refrigerator is the one that fits in your kitchen. The size of your large capacity refrigerator will vary depending on your model. They are often 36” in terms of width and typically 26 - 30” in depth.
Think about the current location of your refrigerator and whether you can afford to lose a few more inches. If not, consider whether you can reconfigure your space to accommodate a larger refrigerator. If you are starting a kitchen remodel, it may be best to identify which large capacity refrigerator you want to purchase first.
TYPES OF LARGE CAPACITY REFRIGERATORS
The types of large capacity refrigerators available are similar to those of typical refrigerators. With these styles, you can be sure to find a refrigerator that both fits your cooking needs as well as your kitchen.
1. LARGE SIDE-BY-SIDE REFRIGERATOR
The chief benefit to this type of refrigerator is its side-by-side storage. This allows you to keep the items you use most at eye level—from frozen to fresh ingredients—and place longer-term storage items down below. Side-by-side refrigerators also offer organizational features and impressive shelf space to store your food.
2. LARGE FRENCH DOOR REFRIGERATOR
With a modern look, French door refrigerators are a complement to any kitchen. With a wide, pantry-style layout up top for the refrigerator, you can keep fresh items organized at eye-level while tucking away frozen items in the drawer below.
3. LARGE BOTTOM MOUNT FREEZER REFRIGERATOR
For those who prefer keeping fresh ingredients at eye level, bottom mount refrigerators allow you to conveniently organize your food the way you like. And whenever you need to reach frozen food, you can slide out the bottom drawer for your frequently used items.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A KITCHENAID® LARGE CAPACITY REFRIGERATOR?
KitchenAid® refrigerators boast advanced features that are available on select large-capacity models. One such feature is the Preserva® Food Care System, which helps keep food fresh longer, as well as ExtendFresh™ Plus Temperature Management System that monitors the temperature of ingredients to ensure freshness and an under-shelf prep zone to store marinades or chilled desserts.
Another great feature is the SatinGlide® system with soft-close to effortlessly shut your crisper doors, along with adjustable spill-resist glass shelves that allow you to use your entire refrigerator edge to edge.
DO LARGE CAPACITY REFRIGERATORS USE A LOT OF ELECTRICITY?
The amount of electricity used by your large capacity refrigerator will depend on the model and your local energy rates. Many large capacity refrigerators meet Energy Star® qualified guidelines, such as this one from KitchenAid brand.
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Expressing the full depth of your creativity can be difficult when you don't have the storage space you need. Luckily, KitchenAid® refrigerators are designed in the sizes and styles to fit your kitchen. Keep your favorite ingredients fresh and ready with a refrigerator that's perfect for the way you like to create.
