There’s more to buying a fridge than meets the eye. Here we’ll tell you all you need to know so that you can buy the perfect appliance to fit your needs with ease.
Buying any new appliance can come with its fair share of complications – especially when it comes to larger investments like fridges. From volumetric measurements to a huge selection of features, it can all get quite overwhelming. We spoke to Richard Hirsch, CEO of Hirsch’s Homestore, to troubleshoot all your fridge-buying questions.
Long-Term Investment
Purchasing a new fridge is far from an annual occurrence; it’s an appliance that you’ll have in your home for years. So, it’s worth taking the time to choose the right product from the get-go and save yourself from all those endless daily frustrations.
Therefore, it isn’t always worth trying to hunt down the cheapest versions out there. Spending a bit now can save you a lot of money in the future as the more expensive devices usually come with a warranty or years-long guarantee. Having this safety net means you won’t have to stress about potential repairs or replacements – at least for the first few years.
After-sale support and parts availability should also be a key consideration, so opt for well-known brands that are widely stocked countrywide, even if they may cost a little bit more initially.
Meticulous Measurement
‘Often, the challenge with choosing a new fridge is to make sure it fits in the space that you have available. Many of our customers measure the fridge and not the size of the space,’ notes Richard.
This is an important factor because fridges have protective covers on top and on either side, so you need to ensure that there is enough space for the doors to open without catching on your cabinets. For this reason, it is always helpful to go view a fridge in-store. This will allow you to open the doors and take more comprehensive measurements than the ones usually provided online. Not having your fridge doors damage the surrounding cupboards or appliances
is most definitely worth the trip!
Fridge-Freezer Combos
Richard observes that many consumers are opting for fridge-freezer combos instead of standalone fridges and freezers. Why do you need to know this? These device combos can work out more affordable than the purchasing of two separate appliances. Plus, they tend to be more effective space-wise too. You get more bang for your buck, and you can also save some space by avoiding two separate bulky appliances.
What’s more, the combined fridge-freezers look more uniform and can thus add an element of sleekness to your kitchen. With these, there’s no need to try and match differing finishes; instead, they look stylish from day one.
To Plumb or Not to Plumb?
Are you wondering whether to go for a water dispenser in your fridge or keep
things classic? Some people shy away from buying a fridge with an ice or water dispenser because they don’t have plumbing at the back of their fridge.
But fear not! Richard says, ‘Usually there is a kitchen sink very nearby, and so it might mean an hour or two of messy work to re-route the plumbing, but once you have your fridge plumbed in, you will never have to fill up a water jug or ice tray again!’
Alternatively, a cheaper option is a fridge with a water dispenser that requires manual filling. This means you will have to unclip the small inner tank, fill it in the sink, then place it back into the door of the fridge. This option requires a bit more work, but if you’re on a dime and it’s a dispenser you’re after, then you should consider these models.
Delivery Due Diligence
After weeks of research, multiple shop visits, and hours of reading reviews, you’ve picked your perfect fridge. But, does it fit through your front door? Will your security gates need to be removed to fit your dream fridge into your home?
Richard notes that the side-by-side fridge-freezers can be especially tricky to manoeuvre into your home. While retailers offer delivery services where skilled handymen can deliver and install your new appliance, this may sometimes involve removing safety gates or carrying your fridge through your house via backdoor access.
It will be a small price to pay but note that the removal and reinstallation of security gates is an element to consider when shopping.
Ultimately, Richard concludes that there is no one perfect fridge for every family. A one-size-fits-all approach is no good. Instead, consider your space constraints, whether you’ll save by opting for a fridge-freezer, and how you could fit the appliance into your home. Also consider whether you’d be willing to spend some time (and money) on the plumbing during the installation.
Allocating more funds to a fridge is a good move as it’s something you’ll be using every day and it isn’t an appliance you will need to replace often. Don’t compromise on your unique needs and specifications to save a little; rather get what you need right from the start and opt for well-known brands with warrantees and accessible after-sales support.
Reading reviews online is also a great way to start your buyer journey. The more research you do, the better your chances of finding your ideal fridge.
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