Side By Side Freezers Fridge
Side-by-side fridges have ample space to store food items. Some such as our top pick by Forno, also have counter-depth sizes that sit close to cabinets for a sleek and modern look.
Some models allow freezer storage with different heights. This is useful for families with children or any who has difficulty reaching high shelves.
Size
As their name suggests, side-by-side refrigerators have an ice maker and refrigerator on each side. They are larger than models with a top freezer and bottom freezer. They are also slimmer and don't block your view like single-door fridges which are useful for kitchens with smaller spaces.
Side-by-side refrigerators stand taller than other types of refrigerators, which is why they give more space to the freezer. They typically have multiple shelves and compartments to make organizing easy, letting you keep frequently used items at eye level in the refrigerator section and longer-term food items on higher shelves, which are harder to reach in the freezer. They could also have water dispensers and ice which allows you to quickly access your drinks without having to open the freezer door.
The freezers in these refrigerators employ separate cooling systems that ensure the coldest, most consistent temperatures, so that food remains fresh for longer. They also have features that stop food spoilage and loss, such as an system for hydration, air filters for controlling smells, or crisper drawers which absorb ethylene gas in order to delay overripening.
This kind of refrigerator has a downside in that it isn't as efficient in energy use as top-freezer or bottom-freezer units. This is because they have a huge vertical volume to cool, which can increase your utility bill. Plus, they are less efficient than other models when it comes to storing large items and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues who find it difficult to bend.
Convenience
Side-by-side refrigerators feature slimmer doors that require less space to open than other refrigerators. This is why they are a great option for kitchens that have limited space. Side-by-side refrigerators typically have a greater capacity than French door refrigerators, too typically 13 to 15 cubic feet for fresh food and 8 to 9 cubic feet for the freezer.
They are also a great choice for small condos and homes where a larger refrigerator might be a waste of counter space. The refrigerators aren't huge enough to accommodate the storage needs of some families. Even everyday utensils and larger meals for the holidays may not be able to fit. It is possible to move shelves, however this can take a long time and decrease the efficiency of the refrigerator.
Another drawback of side by side freezers is that they allocate proportionally more space to the freezer than the refrigerator this could be a problem if you intend to regularly use deep freezers. There are solutions to overcome this potential disadvantage. Many models include an ice maker separately that lets you enjoy chilled drinks without the need for the cooling system of your refrigerator.
You can select one with independently controlled refrigerator and freezer sections that have features such as the Preserve Food System from KitchenAid, for example, which includes an air filter which helps to keep odors at bay and a mechanism that is built into the drawers that are used to absorb ethylene gas and delay the over-ripening and spoilage of your produce. It's an investment, but it will save you money by maintaining your food in better shape for longer.
Energy Efficiency
As a whole, side by side refrigerators use less energy than bottom freezer models. They also cost less than French door refrigerators and can be more maintenance-friendly since the doors open only just half as wide. However, you'll need ensure that your kitchen is able to accommodate the water and ice dispenser, which requires an electrical connection, which is often harder to install in narrower kitchens. In addition, the bigger openings of a side-by-side fridge can make it more difficult to store larger items.
Many manufacturers provide energy-saving features in their side by side refrigerators. They have adjustable shelves and LED lights to keep food visible, even in the darkest corner of the freezer. Some have separate cooling systems for fridge and freezer sections. This can help cut down on food waste, as it makes it easier to locate things that are popular and less likely to throw them away if you forget about them or they've become spoiled.
You can also purchase an appliance that comes with additional features like door-in-door access to drinks and snacks. This is not just a time-saver, but also reduces energy consumption as the cold air is limited from escaping the fridge. You can also get a side-by-side refrigerator without additional features if you are in a pinch or your kitchen is basic. Quincy Bulin, a Lowe's product specialist and writer covering everything from home improvement products to most modern appliances. She's always ready to help you find the perfect products for your home Ask her!
Stores
A majority of side-by-side refrigerators come with water and ice dispensers built into the freezer. This is a great option for those who want easy access to cold drinks and snacks, and also a convenient way to wash dishes or clean glasses. However, it also reduces the capacity of the freezer. Choose a refrigerator adequate for your needs.
Due to their vertical design, side by side refrigerators have more storage capacity in the freezer than refrigerators with a bottom freezer. This means you can store things you frequently use on higher shelves, and storing longer-term frozen goods lower down. The freezer is also equipped with multiple shelving options, so you can arrange it according to your personal needs.
Modern side-by-side refrigerators feature a sleek, premium style that improves the look of your kitchen. The two doors make a smaller footprint and less clutter compared to other configurations of refrigerators. Many models also have crisper drawers, humidity control and other features based on the model.
Some fridges that are side-by-side come with an Energy Star certification, which means they'll cost you less on every day basis. If you're concerned about your electricity bills, this makes them an ideal option. However, small side by side refrigerator/freezer that are required to obtain this certification do increase the initial cost of the refrigerator that has this label. This may not be an issue for some consumers, but it's worth considering before buying a fridge.