What To Know
- If you need a lot of freezer space, a French door fridge is a good choice.
- If you want a more convenient fridge with a door-in-door feature, a side-by-side fridge is a better option.
- An ice maker can be a convenient feature, especially if you have a lot of guests or entertain frequently.
When it comes to choosing a new refrigerator, two popular options are side-by-side and French door models. Both types have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision.
Side by Side Fridge
Pros:
- Vertical storage: Side-by-side fridges have two vertical compartments, one for the refrigerator and one for the freezer. This can be more convenient than a top-mount or bottom-mount freezer, as you don’t have to bend down or reach up to access your food.
- Door-in-door: Some side-by-side fridges have a door-in-door feature, which allows you to access frequently used items without opening the main door. This can help to save energy and keep your food fresher.
- Ice and water dispenser: Most side-by-side fridges have an ice and water dispenser on the front of the door. This can be a convenient feature, especially if you have a lot of guests or entertain frequently.
Cons:
- Less freezer space: Side-by-side fridges typically have less freezer space than French door models. This can be a problem if you store a lot of frozen food.
- Narrow shelves: The shelves in side-by-side fridges are often narrower than in French door models. This can make it difficult to store large items, such as platters or baking sheets.
- More expensive: Side-by-side fridges are typically more expensive than French door models.
French Door Fridge
Pros:
- More freezer space: French door fridges have more freezer space than side-by-side models. This can be a major advantage if you store a lot of frozen food.
- Wider shelves: The shelves in French door fridges are wider than in side-by-side models. This makes it easier to store large items, such as platters or baking sheets.
- Adjustable shelves: The shelves in French door fridges are often adjustable, which allows you to customize the storage space to meet your needs.
Cons:
- Less convenient access: French door fridges have two doors that open out, which can be less convenient than the vertical doors on a side-by-side fridge.
- No door-in-door: French door fridges do not have a door-in-door feature. This means that you have to open the main door to access all of the food in the fridge.
- More expensive: French door fridges are typically more expensive than side-by-side models.
Which Type of Fridge Is Right for You?
The best type of fridge for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a lot of freezer space, a French door fridge is a good choice. If you want a more convenient fridge with a door-in-door feature, a side-by-side fridge is a better option.
Features to Consider
When choosing a side-by-side or French door fridge, there are several features to consider:
- Capacity: The capacity of a fridge is measured in cubic feet. The larger the capacity, the more food you can store.
- Shelving: The shelving in a fridge can be adjustable or fixed. Adjustable shelves allow you to customize the storage space to meet your needs.
- Drawers: Drawers in a fridge can be used to store fruits, vegetables, and other items. Some drawers are temperature-controlled, which can help to keep food fresher.
- Ice maker: An ice maker can be a convenient feature, especially if you have a lot of guests or entertain frequently.
- Water dispenser: A water dispenser can be a convenient feature, especially if you drink a lot of water.
- Door-in-door: A door-in-door feature allows you to access frequently used items without opening the main door. This can help to save energy and keep your food fresher.
- Energy efficiency: The energy efficiency of a fridge is measured by its Energy Star rating. The higher the Energy Star rating, the more energy efficient the fridge.
Price
The price of a side-by-side or French door fridge can vary depending on the size, features, and brand. Side-by-side fridges typically cost between $1,000 and $2,500. French door fridges typically cost between $1,500 and $3,000.
Summary
Side-by-side and French door fridges are both great options for those looking for a new refrigerator. The best type of fridge for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the features that are important to you and compare the prices of different models before making a decision.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which type of fridge is more energy efficient, side-by-side or French door?
A: French door fridges are typically more energy efficient than side-by-side fridges. This is because French door fridges have a smaller opening than side-by-side fridges, which allows less cold air to escape.
Q: Which type of fridge has more storage space, side-by-side or French door?
A: French door fridges typically have more storage space than side-by-side fridges. This is because French door fridges have a wider design than side-by-side fridges.
Q: Which type of fridge is more expensive, side-by-side or French door?
A: French door fridges are typically more expensive than side-by-side fridges. This is because French door fridges have a more complex design than side-by-side fridges.
