When purchasing a new refrigerator, several key factors come into play, such as configuration, capacity, features, and finish. This comprehensive guide will assist you in selecting the best refrigerator for your home based on the most important criteria for your needs.

Refrigerator Buying Tips:

1. Space and Layout
2. Style and Configuration
3. Capacity and Storage
4. Features
5. Color and Finish

Step 1: Consider Kitchen Space and Layout

Before you shop for a new refrigerator, it's crucial to measure your kitchen space accurately. Use a tape measure to get the exact dimensions, and make sure to note:

- Width, height, and depth of the space where the fridge will be installed.
- Space required to open the refrigerator doors and drawers comfortably.
- Distance from the fridge to nearby kitchen islands.

Additionally, decide if you prefer a standard-depth or counter-depth refrigerator. Standard-depth refrigerators extend beyond the counter, while counter-depth models sit flush with your counters. For more information, check out this guide on standard-depth vs. counter-depth refrigerators.

Step 2: Choose Your Refrigerator Style and Configuration

Select the refrigerator style and configuration that best fits your household needs:

French Door, 4-Door, and 5-Door Refrigerators
French door refrigerators place the refrigerator compartment at eye level and the freezer drawer below. They are ideal for families and often include:

- Water dispensers, single and double ice makers, and dual cooling.
- Customizable drawers, slide-in shelves, and organized freezer storage.
- Ample space for wider items like platters and pizza boxes.

Consider models with additional doors for easy access to snacks without opening the main compartment.

Side-by-Side Refrigerators
These models have the freezer on the left and the refrigerator on the right, offering:

- Humidity-controlled crispers for fruits and vegetables.
- Specialized storage like can caddies.
- Space-saving ice makers and water dispensers on the freezer door.
- Less door swing room compared to top-freezer models of the same width.

Top- and Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators

Top-freezer models have the freezer on top and the refrigerator below, while bottom-freezer models reverse this arrangement. These models are typically:

- More compact, fitting well in smaller spaces.
- Available without a water hookup, as ice and water dispensers are less common.

Undercounter Refrigerators
Perfect for storing food and drinks, these models often feature:

- Reversible doors.
- Temperature-controlled zones.
- Spill-proof shelves.

Beverage and wine centers, a subset of undercounter refrigerators, are designed to store wine and craft beer at optimal temperatures.

 Step 3: Consider Fridge Capacity and Storage Options

When choosing a refrigerator, capacity is key. Measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.), consider:

- How much you typically buy and how many people are in your family.
- Quick access to frequently used items and who needs to reach them.
- Storage for tall items or large platters.

Refrigerators come in various capacities:
- Standard capacity: around 20 cubic feet.
- Large capacity: up to around 30 cubic feet.
- Small space refrigerators: 11 to 18 cubic feet.
- Mini-fridges: 4 to 5 cubic feet.

For additional freezer storage, consider chest and upright freezers that can convert to refrigerators and feature sliding baskets for easy access.

Step 4: Look for Refrigerator Features You’ll Use

Think about the features that will be most beneficial for you, such as:

- Ice and water dispensers.
- Specialized storage solutions like Infinity Slide Shelves, Tiered Freezer Organization, and Adjustable Gallon Door Bins.
- Performance features like Dual Cooling to maintain optimal storage environments for fresh and frozen food.

Explore more new refrigerator trends and features to find what suits your lifestyle.

Step 5: Select Your Desired Fridge Color and Finish


Refrigerator finishes range from traditional black and white to various shades of stainless steel. Choose a color that complements your kitchen décor. For easy maintenance, consider Whirlpool’s fingerprint-resistant finishes:

- Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel
- Fingerprint-Resistant Black Stainless

By following these steps, you can find the perfect refrigerator for your home, combining functionality, style, and convenience.