Severe heat and exhaustion can be countered effectively with refreshing cold water or a chilled beverage on a hot summer day. However, this is only possible if you have a high-performing fridge at home. Refrigerators are your ultimate partners for beating the heat by storing ice-creams, cold drinks, dips and ready-to-eat meals. They keep the vegetables and fruits fresh for a long time and help store cooked food for the next meal, even in soaring temperatures. These magical machines ensure that summers become bearable and provide the comfort of storing and enjoying refreshing drinks, foods and snacks. A loaded fridge can stock the entire week’s groceries without you having to run to the supermarket every day.
In addition, a fridge is a prerequisite in Australian homes because of the dry and hot summer months that are becoming even harsher due to climate change. Heat waves are common in several parts of the continent, leading to bushfires and droughts. Thus, it is simply impossible to live without a fridge. However, you should not just invest in any appliance that promises cold storage for your pantry items. You need a striking addition for your kitchen that keeps your food safe and hygienic while maintaining its aesthetic appeal, like a shiny and functional dishwasher.
It must be affordable, work on the latest cooling technology, and consume minimum energy to maintain sustainable living conditions. Most of us are unaware of the specifications that must be checked when buying a home appliance. Also, many are adamant about buying smart appliances to upgrade their homes and enjoy convenient living. However, these myriad options can leave you spoilt for choice. Thus, to make it easy for you to pick the best fridge in Australia for your home in 2024, here is a comprehensive buying guide. It will help you make the right decision for your family or personal needs.
Different Types of Refrigerators for Your Home
The first thing to understand is the types of fridges available in the market to find a suitable one for your home. Here is a list of the different types:
1. Top Mount Fridges
These fridges have the same design we have seen growing up in our homes. They have the freezer on top and the fridge underneath. The size and capacity of these appliances can vary, but the basic design remains the same. They are the easiest models to find and are reasonably priced to fit into every budget. Also, they consume less energy than their counterparts. However, many families do not prefer them because they require bending down to remove items from the fridge. It can be especially challenging for aged people and those with back problems.
2. Side-By-Side Fridges
Also known as double-door refrigerators, side-by-side refrigerators have the freezer and the fridge divided into two adjoining compartments with separate doors. Because of the available space, these are perfect for storing a lot of frozen items. They usually have an external water and ice dispenser to make use even more convenient. However, they are not recommended for small apartments with minimal kitchen space.
3. Bottom Mount Fridges
The bottom-mount fridge has the freezer at the bottom and the fridge on the top for easy accessibility. The freezer does not open like a cabinet door but is designed as a pullover drawer. It is the perfect type for those who do not like bending down while looking for things on the shelves. The comfort is the same as felt when using a top-load washing machine instead of a front-load one.
4. French Door Fridges
Another variation of the bottom-mount design is the French-door fridge, which has a freezer at the bottom and a double door on the upper part. Customers prefer this model because it offers more space and has extra features. Since the upper part is not divided into two compartments, it can easily fit large dishes and pizza boxes.
5. Smart Fridges
The digital world has made it easy to stay up-to-date about home appliances and their performance. Smart fridges are the newest addition to the multitude of smart devices, making home automation a reality. These machines connect to the Wi-Fi connection at home and help you access information remotely about the contents inside. They can help you set the temperature and check notifications even when you are away.
How to Choose the Right Fridge Size?
The number of people in the house and the storage needs of the family can help you determine the appropriate fridge size.
1. Small Fridges (300 to 380 Litres)
These are available in the top-mount design and are apt for a family of 1-2 people. They can be easily fitted in a small apartment or condo and are preferred by students living alone or young professionals. They have limited features and are quite affordable. The small size requires the owner to squeeze in too many items or consume the leftovers because there is no storage. However, they are energy–efficient and save money through reduced bills.
2. Medium Fridges (380 to 450 Litres)
The medium fridges are usually available in the bottom mount design. They have decent space and can be easily used for a family of 2-3 people. They are much-loved by buyers because they help to view food items at eye level instead of bending down.
3. Large Fridges (451 to 525 Litres)
These appliances have several features and more capacity. They are available in the side-by-side and French door design. They are apt for a family of 3-4 members. The design can be chosen based on the freezing requirements. These consume more energy and space in your house.
4. Extra Large Fridges (Over 525 Litres)
These fridges are meant for large families with more than 5 members. They are extremely spacious and can be bought in both French door and side-by-side models. They consume maximum energy and can inflate the power bills.
Best Fridge to Buy for Your Home in 2024
Before embarking on a shopping spree to buy a fridge for your home, you must identify your needs and the most suitable size.
1. LG
LG is a top seller when it comes to buying refrigerators for homes in Australia. The renowned brand has models and variants in every category, including French door, bottom mount and top mount fridges. The most loved models in 2024 are LG 687l side by side door GS-B680 series, the best choice for large families and the LG top mount GT-442 series for small families. The brand enjoys highly positive customer ratings and offers chic and modern designs that add a touch of style to your homes. These appliances come with a Surround Cooling feature that allows the food to stay fresh for a long time.
The 687L model has a 3-star energy rating, and the freezer capacity is 265L. It consumes 565kWh/year and comes with an anti-fingerprint stainless finish to keep your kitchen shining at all times. It has digital temperature sensors and an inverter linear compressor with a dual speed cooling fan for maximum freshness. The GT-442 series is equally loved by customers for its 4-star energy rating and platinum silver finish. It offers a freezer capacity of 136L and a refrigerator capacity of 306L. Both the models are perfect for homes and can be acquired keeping the budget and family members in mind.
2. Mitsubishi Electric
One of the most popular fridge brands is Mitsubishi Electric, which is a trusted and long-standing brand. It is known for its durable and efficient appliances. Its most highly rated fridges include the Mitsubishi Electric 710L French Door MR-L710E Series and Mitsubishi Electric Multi Drawer MR-WX Series. The 710L model comes in a stainless steel body with a French door design to accommodate more items in the fridge. The model has four doors, wherein the bottom two doors are for the freezer. It has an LED control panel, tempered glass shelves, an ice maker, freezer cases, a vegetable case and a shelf for large bottles.
The 470L multi-drawer fridge is a perfect addition to your kitchen with its multiple drawers and expansive space with a multi-airflow system. The 4-star energy-rated appliance has a glass door finish and humidity control with a vacuum insulation panel. It has a super cool chilling case for freezing perishable items and a wide chilling case for storing processed food. In addition, there is a freezer drawer and an automatic ice maker. The stunning features and sleek design make it an ideal choice.
3. Samsung
Samsung is a widely recognised and admired brand in Australia because it offers the latest technology with exceptional features. These well-crafted appliances provide ample space and functionality. The most preferred models include the Samsung 719L French Door SRF71 Series and Samsung 400L Top Mount SR Series. The 719L machine comes with a French door design and stainless steel body. It boasts triple cooling technology and maintains the appropriate temperature and humidity for foods. The 4-door fridge has a 2.5-star energy rating and an electronic control panel to adjust the settings. Its striking features include a smart convertible freezer and a customisable drawer.
The 400L machine is made for small families that are well-adjusted to the top-mount design. This refrigerator has a 3-star energy rating and smart freezer conversion mode. The machine is fitted with twin cooling plus technology to maintain optimum temperature and humidity inside. The smart freezer offers four modes for food storage and can be switched off when you are away on vacation.
4. Fisher & Paykel
The well-known brand was founded in New Zealand 80 years ago and has become a favourite of Australians. It has a wide range of refrigerators that have been approved by customers for their modern functions and design. The most appreciated model includes the Fisher & Paykel ActiveSmart 519L Bottom Mount for big families. The French door model has ample freezing and refrigeration space because of its large capacity.
The door water dispenser offers easy accessibility and the freezer drawer allows easy storage of frozen foods. The most prominent feature of the machine is the ActiveSmart technology that maintains an ideal temperature inside the fridge to sustain the freshness of food items. Families with few members can opt for the Fisher & Paykel ActiveSmart 442L Bottom Mount RF442 Series that has a contemporary design and excellent cooling technology.
5. Westinghouse
Westinghouse has been a constant in the home appliances segment in the country. The brand has become a part of the culture and is known for its high-quality kitchen appliances packed with the latest features. The most bought product from its stable of refrigerators is the Westinghouse 453L Bottom Mount WBE45 Series. The powerful machine looks stylish with its bottom mount design and fingerprint resistant stainless steel body. The best part about this appliance is its 4.5-star energy rating, which ensures a reduced power bill. In addition, it offers FreshSeal humidity-controlled crisper and adjustable storage solutions with the FlexStor feature that helps adjust the door bins.
Another model that has been well received by customers is the 340L Bottom Mount WBB3400 Series. This frost-free appliance has a humidity control feature that keeps the vegetables and fruits crisp. The adjustable door bins give the flexibility to increase or decrease the space for holding bottles and jars. The glass shelves are easy to clean and the twistable ice trays improve access.
6. Electrolux
Electrolux fridges have been gratifying customers across Australia with their innovative features and high energy efficiency. The best thing about the Electrolux 529L Bottom Mount EBE53 Series is that it offers a 4.5-star energy rating even in a large-capacity machine. The elegant appliance comes with a TasteLock Easy-glide crisper to keep the veggies and fruits fresh for long. Customers love that it helps keep energy bills under control and offers customisation flexibility with adjustable shelves and door bins. It also has a MultiZone deli compartment designed especially for odour-free storage of artisan cheeses and deli delights.
Those looking for French door design can opt for the larger Electrolux 609L French Door EQE6870 Series. Made with stainless steel, the quad-door machine has a TasteSealFlex convertible compartment that quickly adapts to the temperature required for different food items. Its TasteLockAuto crispers maintain the right humidity levels by eliminating excess moisture and reducing condensation.
7. Haier
Many homeowners prefer Haier because of its performance and functionality. The Chinese brand offers energy efficiency and ample space to attract buyers. The most highly rated fridge from the brand is the Haier 463L Quad Door HRF530Y Series. The smartly designed machine offers SwitchZone compartment technology, which allows users to change the temperature according to the items stored in the appliance. The multi-zone air cooling feature ensures consistent airflow in every corner, and the advanced anti-bacterial treatment helps reduce bacteria.
If the 463L is a bit small for your family, you can pick the 623L quad-door refrigerator freezer, which has SwitchZone compartment technology, a water dispenser, and an automatic ice maker. The smart appliance can be connected to Wi-Fi to control it remotely and get alerts through the SmartHQ app. The machine evenly cools the entire space and maintains food freshness with bacteria protection.
8. Hisense
Hisense is another Chinese brand that has been around for a while and is found in many Australian homes. One of its most loved fridges is the Hisense HRBM483B. The 483L machine comes in a bottom mount design with a 6-star energy rating, which makes it supremely efficient. The appliance has an inverter compressor motor, a multi-function touch control panel, and reversible doors. It also provides the Holiday Powersave function that helps you save more when you are away. It includes adjustable spill-proof glass shelves and a spacious crisper for fruits and vegetables.
The larger option from this brand is the Hisense 632L Side by Side HRSBS632BW model. The big machine is known for its brushed metal panel, which allows perfect cooling and optimal temperatures. The appliance can be connected to Wi-Fi to maintain the temperature through remote access. The pure flat design allows easy blending into the modular kitchen, and the ice and water dispenser makes access comfortable.
9. ChiQ
ChiQ has become a well-liked name in the country because of its affordability and quality. Its fridges are reliable and loaded with features like the ChiQ 202L Top Mount CTM199NB. This compact machine is perfect for unit dwellers and students living alone who do not need much food storage space. Priced economically, it has sufficient capacity and a multi-airflow system. The frost-free fridge comes with adjustable tempered glass shelves and a humidity-controlled crisper. Its 4-star energy rating makes it ideal for budget buyers.
If you are looking for a bigger model from the brand, you can choose the CHiQ 396L Bottom Mount CBM396NW fridge. The affordable appliance comes with an inverter system and reversible door. Its spacious body can store a significant amount of groceries and food items. In addition, its fast freeze and humidity control ensure that vegetables and fruits stay fresh throughout.
10. Kelvinator
Kelvinator has been offering superior and cutting-edge technology for the past 80 years to satisfy Australians. Its user-friendly appliances have become a favourite among homeowners, including the Kelvinator 536L Top Mount KTM5402WC fridge. The frost-free machine has spill-safe glass shelves and a Flexstor door bin storage system for flexibility and ease of use. The appliance includes multi-flow air delivery, a pocket handle, LED lighting and a fridge door alarm. It also has separate temperature controls for the fridge and the freezer and comes with rear rollers.
If you need a fridge with a lower capacity, you can look for the Kelvinator 431L Top Mount KTM4602WC which has a 3.5-star energy rating. The machine has all the features available in the large-capacity fridge, such as FlexStor door bin storage, spill-safe glass shelves, a full-width crisper, frost-free, and a pocket handle.
Features to Look for When Buying a Fridge
Technology keeps evolving and giving way to new product features that make the lives of customers easier. From stunning designs to ease of use and innovative functionality, buyers must check the features carefully before making a purchase. Here are the features that must be included in a high-performing appliance.
1. Energy Efficiency
Energy rating is one of the most crucial features that must be evaluated before buying a home appliance. It is essential to maintain a sustainable lifestyle in the current global warming conditions that are leading to extreme temperatures. Besides reducing the impact on the environment, energy-efficient appliances are also cost-effective because they help reduce energy bills.
The energy rating labels must be identified on products when comparing models to choose the right one. A higher star rating means a more efficient product. In addition, you must check the energy consumption measured in KWh, which provides details of the amount of energy consumed by the appliance in a year. Fridges with lower energy consumption will prove to be cheaper to use because of reduced electricity bills.
2. Humidity-Controlled Crisper
Urban professionals, students and aged people do not have the time and energy to go grocery shopping every other day. They buy fruits and vegetables for the week by completing the chores on the weekend. Thus, they need a fridge that can keep the food fresh and bacteria-free. Humidity-controlled crisper ensures they do not get spoiled, and some models also have different control options for different food items. While fruits like apples, pears and avocados must be stored in low humidity, veggies like lettuce, herbs, broccoli and cucumber must be placed in high humidity.
3. Water and Ice Dispenser
Although this feature is available in the higher variants, it is quite helpful when you need chilled water or ice quickly. The dispenser is positioned in the outer frame of the machine, which ensures that you do not have to open and close the fridge door again and again for water. It keeps the airflow intact and reduces the outflow of cool air. Large families can especially benefit from this feature and keep the temperature inside the fridge at optimum levels.
4. Adjustable Shelves and Door Bins
Adjustable shelves are an essential feature that should not be ignored. They help to customise storage according to your needs. Whether you want to place a large jug or a pizza, you can fit any type of container in the fridge because of the adjustable shelves. They can be easily removed and cleaned to maintain hygiene and keep the appliance clean.
Similarly, adjustable door bins are another feature that must be present in a fridge to accommodate different bottle sizes. Whether you want to fit milk cartons, small cans or large soft drink bottles, these bins allow you to place everything in the door flexibly.
5. Smart Technology
We are living in the digital age with smart devices across homes. Smart automation has become a necessity for busy urban professionals who do not have time to set things up at home. Remote access to the appliances and devices like smart baby monitors and fridges can make lives much more comfortable. Thus, if you have the budget and are tech-savvy, you must get LED touchscreen fridges with Wi-Fi connectivity.
It allows families to keep track of the food in the fridge and reduces the chance of forgetting them in the corner until they are spoiled. However, smart appliances are not highly durable. So if you are looking for value for money over cutting-edge technology, you can stick with traditional designs.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Fridge
Buying a fridge is a significant investment because it is a long-term purchase that will be a part of the house for years. You must determine your household needs before looking at the specifications and designs. Let us help you understand what to know before buying a fridge in Australia.
1. Determine the Available Space
It is critical to check the available space for the fridge in the kitchen if it is already designed and is loaded with cabinets and a countertop. The space for the appliance will help you decide on the right design that can fit into it. Make sure there is room for opening the doors comfortably and there is no obstruction. So, measure the cavity and there should be a gap of at least 5 cm on each side between the fridge and the walls. The area above the fridge should have a free space of about 10 cm for effective ventilation and prevent overheating of the appliance.
2. Identify Your Budget
The amount you are willing to spend on this essential appliance is the key to your buying decision. Since a fridge is a necessity and a long-term investment, the budget must be decided with suggestions and input from family members. Do not look for the cheapest options to save a few dollars because the low-quality products do not last and require regular upkeep and repair expenses. If you cannot afford the premium models, you can opt for the lower variants from renowned brands that will provide the storage support you need in the kitchen.
3. Finish Type of the Fridge
The refrigerator finish type should depend on the design of the kitchen and the cabinets. Do not just purchase a fridge because you like the style and colour. It must match with the overall look and feel of the kitchen and should blend in easily. Consider the colours that will look attractive and match with the walls and the countertop. The finish type can be chosen from variations like glossy, matte and chrome to add value to the decor element of your kitchen without appearing like a blot. The fridge door patterns should also match the cabinet designs to create the perfect design alignment without distortions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fridges
Buying a new fridge is an important decision and can leave you looking for information that is not easily available. Here are a few commonly asked questions and their answers to help you out.
1. What Is The Right Temperature Setting For A Fridge?
The user manual will help you identify the right temperature setting that can be adjusted. The ideal temperature for the fridge is 3 to 5 degrees Celsius, and for the freezer, it must be between -15 to -18 degrees Celsius.
2. Should the Fridge Be Plugged In All the Time?
Yes, refrigerators can run through the day and night without the need to switch them off. They are built to run all the time without malfunctioning. However, they do need maintenance like any other appliance to maintain their energy efficiency and longevity.
3. What Is the Durability of a Fridge?
Most trusted brands offer quality products that can last for up to 15-20 years with proper maintenance and good care. It is vital to follow the instructions in the manual while moving the fridge to keep it perfect condition.
4. How often should I Clean the Fridge?
Kitchen appliances must be cleaned frequently for the hygiene and health of family members. Since the fridge is the storehouse of all food items, it must be free from germs and dirt that can contaminate the food. Regular cleaning should happen every week, while deep cleaning can be done every four months.
5. When Should the Fridge Be Serviced?
Fridges must be serviced every six months or when they start showing signs of wear and tear. Some of the obvious signs of problems include reduced cooling, loud noises, excess ice accumulation in the freezer, food spoilage, etc.
6. How to Maintain a Fridge Properly?
Families can increase the appliance’s lifespan by ensuring the machine’s correct use. They should not open the fridge doors repeatedly or keep them open for a long time. The food in the fridge should not be hot, as this leads to bacterial growth, and the rubber seal on the doors must be checked for gaps.
Wrapping Up
A fridge is a beneficial appliance that has evolved over the years into a highly functional machine. With the latest technological innovations and advanced features, the appliance has become a superior product that improves the quality of your life. So, make a wise decision and choose the best fridge in the market with the help of this guide.
