The Different Types of Freezers – Which is Best for Your Home?
If you’re in the market for a new freezer, you’ll quickly realize that there are many different types of freezers available on the market today. From chest freezers to upright freezers, it can be challenging to determine which type of freezer is best for your home. Understanding the different types of freezers and their features will make it easier to choose the best model for your needs.
Types of Freezers
Chest Freezers
Chest freezers are box-shaped and open from the top. They have a larger capacity than upright types of freezers and are ideal for storing large and bulky items. Chest freezers are often more energy-efficient than upright freezers, and their doors seal tighter, keeping the cold air inside. However, they take up more floor space, and organizing items inside can be challenging. Chest freezers are the best types of freezers for shoppers who are budget-minded and need large amounts of storage space. They store big and bulky packages easily.
Upright Freezers
Upright freezers look like standard refrigerators, with a door that opens to the side. These types of freezers are ideal for people who need to organize items inside, with adjustable shelves, pull-out bins, and storage drawers. Upright freezers are less energy-efficient than chest freezers. Every time you open the door, cold air comes out and sinks to the floor. The freezer then has to make more cold air to replace it.
Many upright freezers are frost-free, meaning they defrost automatically. Some models must be defrosted manually. A frost-free model will use more energy than a comparable manual defrost model and usually costs more upfront. The convenience is worth the price difference to many people.
Commercial Freezers
Commercial freezers are designed for use in restaurants, grocery stores, and other commercial settings. They have a large capacity, multiple doors, and see-through doors or lids, making it easy to take stock of what’s inside. These types of freezers are typically more expensive and use more energy than residential models.
Choosing the Best Freezer for Your Home
Size
The size of the freezer you need depends on how much frozen food you plan to store. A good rule of thumb is to have 1.5 cubic feet of space per person. For a family of four, you’ll need at least a 6 cubic foot freezer. If you plan to store large amounts of meat or garden produce, you may need a larger freezer.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient freezers use less energy and can save you money on your utility bills. Look for freezers that are Energy Star-rated, which use about 10 percent less energy than non-rated models. By choosing an energy-efficient model, you not only save money on your utility bills but also reduce your environmental impact.
Defrosting
As previously mentioned, freezers can either be manually defrosted or frost-free. Manual defrost freezers require periodic defrosting to remove ice buildup. Freezers that are frost free use internal coils to periodically heat and cool, preventing ice buildup. Although frost-free models usually cost more upfront than manual defrost models, most people feel this time and labor-saving feature is worth the price.
Location
Consider where you’ll place your freezer. Freezers should be kept away from heat sources such as ovens or direct sunlight, which can make them work harder and increase your utility bills. If you plan to keep your freezer in an unheated garage, look for a model that is “garage ready” or designed to operate safely in colder temperatures. Putting a freezer near your garage door so you can easily unload frozen foods when you drive in is usually your best bet for placement.
Need Help Choosing Between the Different Types of Freezers?
We understand that selecting a freezer can be a big investment, which is why we’re committed to helping you find the right one that fits your budget and requirements. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to ensure that you make an informed decision and are happy with your new freezer for years to come.
Our friendly and knowledgeable team at Jersey Coast Appliance is here to help. We can guide you through the different types of freezers and help you choose the perfect one for your home kitchen. Whether you prefer to visit our convenient Toms River location or browse our selection online, we have an extensive variety of freezers for you to choose from.
