How to Choose a Freestanding Freezer
Freestanding freezers are great to store food specials and homemade sauces. Before you purchase one, ensure that it will fit into your space when replacing an integrated fridge freezer; this may require adding a bridging cabinet if the freestanding model is less than the cabinetry around it.
Features
Freezers are a set-it-and-forget-it appliance however, there are a few key features that make freezers user-friendly and allow you to keep frozen food items in good condition. Look for a light indicator that indicates 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 interior storage options particularly if you are freezing small items such as packaged meals or fruits. Upright freezers generally come with organizational baskets, drawers, 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 losing the track of their contents.
Chest freezers are larger than upright freezers. They're great for large families, hunters, or for anyone who requires a freezer to store food in large quantities or for storage in the long term. They also hold their cold temperatures very efficiently and require the minimum amount of energy to run. Some models are made to stand up to extreme cold, which is why they're ideal for garages or other areas of the house that might experience wide temperature fluctuations.
Think about buying an ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Freezer if you want to reduce your energy costs even further. This type of freezer is 10 percent more efficient than standard models and can reduce your electricity usage by up to 441 kWh annually.
In addition to helping you save on energy costs, an ENERGY STAR freezer is covered by a warranty that lasts for five years and meets the highest environmental standards. It is also a great choice for RVs, as it can be used in winter and is connected to a generator.
If you plan to install your new freezer in an existing 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 a taller end panels and the bridging cabinet to install. Some models can be installed closely to the cabinets on either side and make them appear as if they are built-in. This can aid in blending into your style.
Design
A freestanding freezer is an excellent option for those who have already constructed their kitchen but want to expand their storage space. It can also be used in a basement rec room or garage. If you select stainless steel that has sidewalls, the appliance will be painted in the same color as the front door, which means it will appear elegant and stylish no matter where you place it.
The primary difference between an integrated fridge freezer and a standalone one is that a standalone doesn't require an enclosure cabinet, and can stand on its own. This means it's usually cheaper than a integrated version. However, if cheap freezer uk to create an enclosure for it (as when you're replacing an integrated model that's already in use) this will add to the overall cost as you may need taller end panels as well as a bridge cabinet.
It is possible to use an upright freezer to store smaller items that you require easy access to. These models are usually equipped with shelves, drawers racks, doors, and shelves compartments that help keep everything organized. You can locate what you require without having to sift though piles of food.
There are models that come with LED lighting that is efficient in terms of energy to help you find the things you require in the dark. Consider a chest freezer if you are looking to keep your items in order but don't mind having to bend over. They offer more floor space, and are generally bigger than upright options. However, they may not be as easily accessible.
Siemens' range of freezers for refrigerators that are standalone has models for every need and design. They all have a chic exterior and the latest cooling technologies such as noFrost and hyperFresh so you can keep your groceries fresher for longer. With Home Connect, you can control Siemens' freezers from anywhere with your tablet or smartphone. So, you'll never need to worry about your chilled drinks or food getting ruined again.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficient freezers have a smaller impact on the environment over the course of their lives than non-efficient models. They also use less power than their older counterparts which means they'll save the cost of your electricity. You should look for freezers that are ENERGY STAR certified and meet the energy consumption requirements set forth by the EPA. These freezers are usually more efficient in insulation and have better temperature controls. They are able to preserve food more effectively.
You can cut down on your energy usage by changing your habits. For instance, let food cool down to room temperature or 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 do so. Keep the condenser coils clean, because the buildup of dust can lower a freezer's efficiency by as much as 25 percent.
If you're thinking of investing in a freestanding freezer, look at the label for its energy efficiency rating, and then compare it with similar models available. The Energy STAR will tell you the average amount of kilowatts that a freezer uses each month.
Modern freezers are more energy efficient than models manufactured ten years ago. You'll notice a decrease in your electricity bill when you upgrade. However, the best method to get the most for your buck is to shop for an energy STAR certified freezer, which will consume up to 40% less power than the standard model, and will save you a significant sum over the long term.
There are many energy-efficient refrigerators available in brick-and mortar stores such as Walmart and Best Buy. Online retailers such as Amazon and eBay also offer these appliances. Certain local utility companies offer rebates and incentives to encourage the purchase of these appliances. To find a refrigerator that has 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 on how to choose the best freezer for your budget and needs to find the perfect model for you.
Warranty
Many households find a freezer that is freestanding useful. You can save money by buying specials at the supermarket or storing excess harvests in your garden. You can also cook ahead and have fresh food on hand all the time with the freezer. Consider purchasing a warranty to protect your investment in a freezer and get rid of the stress that comes with having to pay for repairs if the appliance breaks. An Upsie extended warranty on your freezer will protect your freezer from malfunctions and repairs without a deductible or service fee.
Can I use a fridge-freezer that is freestanding as an integrated model?
No, you can't fit a fridge freezer that is freestanding into your kitchen cabinets like an integrated one. They don't have fully finished fronts, as do integrated models. And they are not designed to fit behind or in front of the kitchen cabinet door (which could cause the handles to not align). If the cabinets underneath the freestanding fridge freezer aren't a bit too close it is possible to put a bridging cabinet above it to create this appearance. However, this will require cutting into your plinth and removing a bit of it, which could leave exposed edges that can be damaged if they get wet.
You'll be able to position your freestanding freezer wherever you have space in the kitchen, and can even move it should you decide to change the layout of your house or relocate your appliances. The flexibility to decide the location you want to put your freezer means it's an ideal option for those who work in a position that requires them to move frequently, since they can take their appliance with them, without worrying about finding an installer that will install it in their new residence.
Freestanding freezers are also a great option for those who prefer the sleeker, more modern appearance of a stainless-steel fridge-freezer. They have sleek, modern design that many people find appealing. These fridge-freezers are not clunky or boxy and will look fantastic in any kitchen.