When it comes to kitchen appliances, few are as essential and versatile as refrigerators. From keeping our groceries fresh to storing leftovers and drinks, a good fridge is a fundamental part of any modern home. However, with a wide range of options available in the market, finding the perfect refrigerator can sometimes be a daunting task. This buying guide simplifies the process by highlighting the key factors to consider before purchasing. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of fridges to ensure you make the right choice for your needs.
Determine Your Space and Capacity Requirements
Before embarking on your refrigerator search, measuring the available space in your kitchen is crucial. Fridges come in various sizes, including compact, standard, and French Door models. Consider the width, height, and depth of the area where the refrigerator will be placed to ensure a proper fit.
TIP: Mitsubishi Electric recommends you add an extra allowance* to the dimensions of each side, top and back of the fridge model you measure to ensure it has enough space around it to fit your cavity area and to allow for necessary airflow. (*Clearance dimensions vary by model, please check and refer to the recommended clearance indicated in the specifications table.)
To help narrow down your options, Mitsubishi Electric has developed a convenient app called ‘Fridge Finder’ that aims to assist you in selecting an ideal refrigerator for your space. Just tell it how wide and tall your fridge cavity is, and it’ll give you a selection of Mitsubishi Electric refrigerator models that fit your available space. You can even photograph your kitchen and see how different fridges would look. Want a sleek black one? Or maybe black stainless? Glass or steel door finish? Head to the App Store and download the ‘Fridge Finder’ app to speed up your search.
Additionally, think about your storage needs and family size to determine the ideal capacity. Do you entertain a lot, or like to bulk cook and freeze your meals? Remember to consider busier times of the year, like festive seasons. Will you need extra storage? It’s better to opt for slightly more space than you need, as it allows for future expansion.
The new volume measurement, introduced by MEPS (Minimum Energy Performance Standards) in August 2021, refers to the usable and accessible space available inside the fridge for you to store food and beverages. This standardised measurement makes comparing storage capacities between the different refrigerator models you are considering simpler.
Choose the Right Style
Refrigerators come in different styles to suit individual preferences and kitchen layouts. The four main types are:
Top Mount: This classic style features a freezer compartment on the top and a refrigerator below. It is one of the most budget-friendly designs and is usually suitable for limited spaces or smaller households.
Bottom Mount: The freezer is located at the bottom, making accessing the more frequently used refrigerator compartment easier. They can offer a good balance of convenience, features and affordability and are ideally sized for apartment living. Some models, such as the Mitsubishi Electric CX Series and CGX Glass Series, feature a three-door design to incorporate a separate vegetable drawer.
French Door: These models have a double-door refrigerator on top and a freezer section below. They offer a spacious and stylish design, perfect for those who frequently entertain or have large families. French door fridges open up to access wide shelves, ideal for large platters and containers, and offer ample storage.
Multi Drawer Fridges: These versatile models offer separate compartments or drawers for different types of food. They can provide better organisation and easier access to stored items while keeping them at optimal temperatures. The top section is usually the main refrigerator with a French door design, while the bottom section can contain freezer, vegetable and ice-making compartments. With their sleek design and cutting-edge features, these fridges cater to those seeking both functionality and style.
Energy Efficiency Matters
In recent years, preference has shifted from old, inefficient refrigerators to more energy-efficient and stylish models. The current Mitsubishi Electric fridge models are tailored for Australians, with energy ratings of up to 4.5 stars, depending on the model.
The Energy Star system provides a straightforward method for identifying energy-saving appliances, with higher star ratings indicating greater efficiency. The Australian Government requirement sets this system, and you can find comprehensive information on energy ratings at the Energy Rating website.
Consider Essential Features
Modern refrigerators often come with a variety of features designed to enhance convenience and functionality. While the options may vary depending on the brand and model, here are a few key features to consider:
Glass Door finish: If you want a luxury look, consider a model with glass front panels, they not only look great but are easy to clean as well.
Adjustable Shelving: Look for shelves that can be customised or moved to accommodate taller items or larger quantities.
Ice Maker: Built-in ice makers provide convenience, but keep in mind that they may require additional plumbing or a water source. If this isn’t an option for your home, look for models that don’t require a separate plumbing connection, like all of the Mitsubishi Electric models which feature automatic ice makers.
Supercool chilling case: A Supercool Chilling case is a convenient feature that allows you to store perishable food such as meat, fish, or other items just above freezing. It provides the benefit of having food ready to cook without the need for defrosting.
Multi-function freezer: A multi-function freezer is designed to be versatile, offering more than just standard freezing capabilities. The Supercool Freezing Drawer, like that found in the Mitsubishi Electric WX Series fridges, aims to preserve food quality by maintaining moisture and taste. It offers two main modes: Supercool Freezing and Hot Freezing.
- Supercool Freezing: This mode is designed to rapidly freeze food items while minimising the formation of ice crystals. Ensuring even freezing, it helps retain the moisture and texture of the items. This mode is particularly useful for delicate foods like fruits, vegetables, and seafood, as it preserves their quality and minimises freezer burn.
- Hot Freezing:In this mode, the LED Sensor detects hot food and adjusts the cold air flow directly onto it, saving time and preserving the food’s quality and freshness. This feature is handy when you need to freeze bulk-cooked meals before placement in the main freezer compartment.
Vegetable drawer: A vegetable drawer is beneficial for humidity control and to preserve the freshness of fruit and vegetables by keeping them separate. Vegetable Drawers can be contained within the main refrigerator compartment or as an independent external drawer. An extra feature to look for is VitaLED lighting, like that found in many Mitsubishi Electric models. VitaLED can assist with slowing down the wilting process.
Budget Considerations
Establishing a budget is essential before starting your refrigerator search. The price range for fridges varies depending on factors such as size, brand, style, and additional features. Set a realistic budget that aligns with your needs and explore options within that range.
Brand and Warranty
Choose a reputable brand known for producing reliable and durable appliances. Research customer reviews and awards, such as ProductReview.com.au and CHOICE, and consider factors such as after-sales service and warranty coverage. A good warranty ensures peace of mind and protection against potential issues.
Purchasing a refrigerator for your home requires the careful consideration of many factors, such as size, style, energy efficiency, features, budget, and brand reputation. Use this guide as a starting point to help you make an informed choice that meets your needs. See our website for further information on the award-winning Mitsubishi Electric Fridge range.
