THE BEST REFRIGERATORS

HOW TO CHOOSE = When selecting among the best refrigerators, your first decision has to be the model. Do you prefer a side-by-side, a top-freezer, bottom-freezer, or a French-door option.

Top-freezer refrigerators are the least expensive and the least repair-prone. Those with bottom freezers are the most convenient because they put the stuff you need most often at eye level.

Side-by-side refrigerators are best in narrow kitchens because they require less door clearance. These have narrower shelves than the others, and are less energy efficient. This model, as well as the French-door models, usually has through-the-door ice and water dispensers.

The French-door models have the energy efficiency, and normally give a capacity of 20 to 26 cubic feet. However, they tend to cost a bit more than the side-by-side models.

Refrigerators are on 24/7. So it’s important to get the Energy Star rating. In addition, most utility companies and municipalities offer rebates of up to $200 when you replace an old refrigerator. Performance is really a non-issue. They all do the same job.

The only difference between the best refrigerators is in the reliability, door style, noise level, and extra features that make organizing and cleaning easier.

Size should be determined by the size of the family. Two people can use 18 cubic feet of space, a family of 4 should look for 22 cubic feet, and larger families should consider 26 cubic feet.

Look for a convenient interior layout. Determine if you can store wide or tall items, and look to avoid nard-to-reach or hidden spots.

Shelves should be sturdy, flexible and easy to clean. Many consumers prefer glass shelves for these reasons. The interior should be well lit.

The refrigerator should be relatively quiet. Electronic touch pads are more likely to fail than conventional controls. It’s a good idea to check the interior temperature with a conventional thermometer every year or so.

Lastly, in the case of the best refrigerators that are built-in, make sure you allow space for the compressor heat to escape. If you fit cabinets tightly against the appliance, the compressor will overheat, work harder, and need replacing within a few years.

THE REVIEW = The Best Top-Freezer Refrigerator is the Kenmore 78222. The 21.6 cubic foot model comes in white, black, bisque and stainless steel (for $200 more). It gets high marks for performance and has several features, including and interior water dispenser and an ice maker.

The freezer floor pulls out, making it easier to get to items in the back. The refrigerator has slide-out glass shelves, as well as humidity-controlled compartments. Sears sells this model for about $580 during the sales.

Other Top Performers Include:

Best Compact Top-Freezer Model = GE GTS18FBSWW @ around $600.

Best Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator = Kenmore 76252 @ $1,200.

Best Side-by-side Refrigerator = Hotpoint GSS25GFTWW @ a little over $1,000

Best French-door Refrigerator = Amana AFD2535DEW @ around $1,500.

Best Price found in Nov. ’09 and again in May, '10 = AJ Madison Outlet for models not exclusive to Sears.

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