The Art of Buying an Appliance

Buying A New Refrigerator For Singles: 6 Cool Considerations To Keep In Mind As You Shop

You may think, living by yourself, that a mini or compact refrigerator is your best option; however, that's likely not the case. Just because you're not feeding a large family doesn't mean you shouldn't afford yourself all the comforts, conveniences, and considerations a full-size fridge offers. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

1. Function

Sure, your shiny new refrigerator is going to protect and preserve all the food you pile in it, but it also needs to maintain constant temperatures in different compartments, keep quiet — even when running on high — last a long time, offer enough cubic space, have drawers and sliders in the right places (for you, specifically), dispense ice and/or water and even have a quick-cool option or flexi-fridge, which allows you to convert fridge to freezer space in no time at all. Of course, if you're a high-tech honcho or music lover, your new cooling machine could even come equipped with speakers, wifi, and talk to you. It's up to you to prioritize your needs and wants, based on price and other factors, but you should be able to demand just about any function from your new fridge your heart desires.

2. Form

Today's appliance showrooms aren't featuring your grandparent's models; instead, you have a humongous variety of models, colors, and styles to choose from. While there's nothing faux pas about a plain old, stark-white fridge since you have so many options available, why not contemplate something contemporary or more colorful? Coincidentally, the sophisticated French-door style refrigerator, which looks clean, elegant, and modern, also has less space than the traditional top-mounted unit, which could make it perfect for one (you). 

3. Efficiency

Living alone means being responsible for all the bills and the new fridge you buy can either help or hurt you in your accounts payable department. While concern for the environment is paramount, you'll want to know the appliance you buy is going to cool, crisp, and freeze without burning your wallet. 

4. Recycling

You might be a candidate for a valuable trade-in with your old fridge if it's in good condition and has some general consumer appeal. If not, dispose of the old unit properly, as opposed to somewhere it won't be recycled. Consider a scrap-metal dealer, too, who might give you a quick, albeit small wad of cash for the old machine. If you do need to place it curbside, though, put in a call to your local public works department, first, to keep yourself in compliance with all laws. 

5. Maintenance 

Some models are easier to keep clean than others, but all should be kept organized, for maxim cooling and minimal energy use. Since you'll need to clean the coils on occasion, make sure the unit is far enough away from the wall to allow for easy access. Purchasing the appropriate size fridge means never having to over-stuff it, avoiding the hazard of obstructing airflow, or stressing the condenser. Ask your appliance salesperson how easy it will be to clean and maintain the model you're interested in, to make your life easier and to extend the life of the product.

6. Cost

Buying a full-size refrigerator doesn't necessarily mean absorbing a full-size price, in case you're concerned about cost. You can look for sales, which usually abound in September and October, when manufacturers release new models, thereby necessitating price reductions at retailers to "get rid of" existing inventory. Additionally, it would behoove the money-minded to inquire about a tax-deduction for any Energy Star appliances, so they can save even more cash. 

You should love your new fridge, no matter its size, shape, or style. It should suit your home, lifestyle, and budget, along with taking care of the environment, even if you're the sole beneficiary of all its perks.

For more tips on buying a refrigerator, reach out to a local appliance store.