LG super sizes the refrigerator

When you're shopping for a refrigerator, one key feature to consider is storage capacity. Bigger might seem better, and in fact manufacturers often tout this point when they introduce new models. Take the LG LFX31925, a $2,999 French-door refrigerator whose claimed capacity of 31 cubic feet is being heralded by its manufacturer as the largest in its class. But do you really need so much room in the fridge?

LG thinks so. With the launch of the "Super Capacity" LFX31925 "consumers have more space to store their groceries and a way to help keep them fresher longer, saving them time with fewer trips to the store and offering greater convenience from the most important appliance in the kitchen," said LG marketing vice presidents John Weinstock in a news release.

Consumer Reports' refrigerator Ratings (180 models and counting) include storage capacity, though along with the figure claimed by manufacturers, we list the usable capacity measured by our engineers. There's often a sizable difference between the two. For example, looking at an earlier LG French-door model, the LG LMX25988[SW] has a claimed capacity of 25 cubic feet, but we measured just 15.4 cubic feet of usable space.

LG says it managed the increased volume with its LFX31925 by moving its streamlined ice-making system inside the door. That allows for usable door bins and an obstruction-free top shelf. The manufacturer also reduced the refrigerator's insulation thickness by 23 percent, supposedly without sacrificing effectiveness.

We haven't tested the new French-door refrigerator, but we can tell you that its claimed 31 cubic-foot capacity bests all other refrigerators in our Ratings, including some behemoth built-ins from the likes of Viking and Sub-Zero. But back to the question of whether so much storage is necessary. In the past, manufacturers have noted that refrigerators with a total volume of between 19 and 22 cubic feet are ideal for a typical household of four. Based on that advice, the extra storage of the LFX31925 could be convenient for very large families, say those with six or more members.

But when it comes to keeping your food organized in the fridge, you need to consider more than just capacity. Consumer Reports' buying advice recommends choosing models with deep door bins, which make the most of available storage space on the door. Full-extension drawers, meanwhile, provide greater access to stored items. And split shelves allow you to adjust shelves to different heights independently, creating room for tall items, such as a carafe-style water filter.

The LFX31925 boasts each of these features along with its cavernous interior. So if it ends up excelling in our tests of temperature performance, energy efficiency, and noise, it will certainly be worth considering if you keep a lot of food in the fridge.

—Daniel DiClerico