August 2008
Types
Here’s how to choose a refrigerator that fits your kitchen space, needs, and budget
Best for small spaces. They cost the least, use the least energy, and are roomiest for their size. Typical width: 30 to 33 inches.
But you must bend to reach refrigerator items. Few offer a water dispenser. Wide-swinging doors require clearance.
Price $500 to $1,350.
Best for keeping fridge items at eye level. French-door models are becoming more common. Typical width: 30 to 36 inches.
But you must stoop for some freezer items. Few have an in-door ice/water dispenser.
Price $750 to $1,600; $1,550 to $2,500 for French doors.
Best for kitchens that can’t fit wide-swinging doors. Most offer an in-door ice/water dispensers Typical width: 33 to 36 inches.
But they’re relatively pricey and aren’t space efficient. Most doors and shelves are too narrow to fit large pizza boxes.
Price $700 to $2,500.
Best for a unified look. Cabinet-depth models mimic built-ins but protrude a bit past cabinets; true built-ins align with cabinets. Typical width: 36 inches-plus.
But true built-ins are pricey.
Price $2,000 to $3,200 for cabinet-depth; $4,000 to $7,600 for true built-in models.
