How to Choose a Freestanding Freezer
Freestanding freezers let you store food items purchased from the grocery store and homemade sauces for later. Before purchasing one make sure that it will fit into your space when replacing an integrated fridge freezer; this may require the addition of a bridging cabinet in case the freestanding model is less than the housing cabinets around it.
Features
Freezers are a one-time-use appliance however, there are some essential features that make freezers more user-friendly and allow you to keep frozen food items in top condition. Look for a light that indicates the power on as well as a temperature alarm. You can also find adjustable feet or wheels to level the freezer on uneven floors.
Another important feature is the variety of storage options for the interior particularly if you are freezing small items like packaged dinners or produce. The upright freezers typically have drawers, baskets, shelves or racks that can be used to store smaller foods and other items. This allows you store multiple items in one location instead of stacking them up and not being able to keep track of the contents.
Chest freezers tend to have more space than upright freezers. They are perfect for large families hunting, hunters or anyone else who requires a freezer to store large-scale purchases or long-term food storage. They also can withstand cold temperatures extremely well and require the most energy to operate. Certain models are designed to stand up to extreme temperatures, which makes them a good choice for garages and other areas in the home that are susceptible to large temperature fluctuations.
If you want to save even more on your energy costs, you should consider an ENERGY STAR most Efficient freezer. This freezer is 10 percent more energy efficient than standard models, and can reduce your electricity consumption by as much as 441kWh per year.
A ENERGY STAR refrigerator is not just energy efficient, but also conforms to the strictest environmental standards. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty. It is also a great option for RVs since it can be used during winter and is connected to an electric generator.
If you are planning to install your new freezer in a current kitchen, then check to determine if it's built in or freestanding. Integrated fridge-freezers are more costly than freestanding models due to the fact that they require tall end panel and the bridging cabinet to install. However, certain models can be tacked tightly to the cabinets to either side of them which makes them appear to be integrated and blend into the design more easily.
Design
A freestanding freezer is an ideal option for those who have already built their kitchen and want to add more storage space. It can also be put in in a basement rec room, garage or commercial kitchen. If you choose a stainless-steel model, the walls on the sides of the appliance are painted the same color as the front of the door, so it looks elegant and stylish regardless of where it's located.
The main difference between an integrated fridge freezer and a freestanding one is that a stand-alone doesn't need to fit inside a housing cabinet and so can stand up on its own. This means it's usually less expensive than an integrated version. However, if need to create an enclosure for it (as in you're replacing an existing integrated model) this can add to the overall cost because you'll require tall end panels and a bridging cabinet.
If you're looking to store smaller items that need to be accessible at a glance, an upright freezer could be ideal for you as they usually have shelves racks, drawers, and door compartments to help keep everything organized. You can locate what you require without having to sift though piles of food.
You can get models with LED lighting that's efficient in energy consumption to help you locate the items you require in the dark. Consider the option of a chest freezer if want to keep your things well-organized, but don't mind being bent over. These models offer more floor space and typically have bigger capacities than upright models, however they may not be as easily accessible.
Siemens' range of standalone refrigerator freezers includes models for every need and style. They all feature a stylish exterior and the latest cooling technology like noFrost or hyperFresh so you can keep your food fresher for longer. With Home Connect, you can control Siemens freezers from any location with your tablet or smartphone. You'll never need to worry that your drinks or food will go bad.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficient freezers are less impactful on the environment than non-efficient models in their entire life. They also consume less power than their older counterparts, so they'll save you the cost of your electricity. Look for the ENERGY STAR certified freezers, which comply with the energy usage guidelines set by the EPA and the Department of Energy. These freezers generally have higher insulation and temperature control which means they can are able to preserve food more efficiently.
Aside from choosing the freezer that consumes the most electricity, you can also reduce your energy use by making a few lifestyle changes. Let food cool to room temperature or put it in the refrigerator prior to placing it in your freezer. The appliance will require more electricity to freeze warm food because it is working harder to accomplish this. Keep the condenser coils in your freezer free of dust. A buildup of heavy dust can cause a decrease in efficiency of up to 25 %.
Check the label of the freezer to find its energy efficiency rating. Compare it to similar models. The Energy STAR rating will inform you how much a freezer uses in kilowatts per month on average.
Modern freezers are much more energy efficient than models manufactured 10 years ago. You'll see a decrease in your electricity bill when you upgrade your freezer. However, the best way to get the most value for your money is to look for an Energy STAR certified freezer. This will consume up to 40% less electricity than the standard model, and will save you money over the long term.
You can find a wide selection of energy-efficient refrigerators in traditional brick-and mortar stores, such as Walmart and Best Buy, online retailers, such as Amazon and eBay and a few local utility companies might offer incentives or rebates when purchasing these appliances. To find a freezer with ENERGY STAR certification, visit the EPA's Energy Star website and look for the ENERGY STAR logo or look for a specific brand. You can also refer to our guide to selecting the ideal freezer for your needs and budget to find the perfect model for you.
Warranty
A freestanding freezer is a useful appliance for many households. It can help cut down on food costs by allowing you to stock up on the best bargains at the supermarket or store any surplus harvests from your garden. The freezer can also allow to cook meals in advance and benefit from the convenience of having fresh foods available at any time. You should think website about purchasing a warranty to protect your freezer investment and avoid the stress that comes with having to pay for repairs should the appliance fail. A Upsie extended warranty for your freezer can cover your freezer against problems and repairs, without a cost-deductible or service charge.
Can I use a freestanding refrigerator-freezer as an integrated model?
It's not possible to fit an independent fridge freezer in your kitchen cabinets the same way as an integrated model. They don't come with finished doors like integrated models, and aren't designed to sit behind or in front of doors to kitchen cabinets (which could cause the handles to be out of alignment). You can put an bridging cabinet over a freestanding fridge freezer to create this look if the cabinets underneath aren't crowded together However, this could require cutting through and removing some of the plinth underneath, which might leave cut (exposed) edges that can be damaged if they are wet.
You'll be able to position your freestanding freezer anyplace you have space in your kitchen and you can even move it if you decide to change the layout of your house or move your appliances. The flexibility of putting your freezer anywhere you want makes it an ideal choice for those who have to move frequently due to their job. They can carry it with them and not have to worry about finding an installer to set it up in their new home.
Freestanding freezers are a great choice for those who prefer the sleeker, more modern appearance of a stainless steel fridge-freezer. These models have an elegant, sleek look that many consumers find appealing. They aren't bulky or boxy and will look stunning in any kitchen.