For many, buying a new refrigerator is something that hasn't been done in over a decade, and for others, it's their first time out.  Refrigerators are a significant investment for your home and there are a number of factors to consider.  Since the lifespan of a refrigerator is anywhere from 8-20 years, take the time to consider appearance as well as performance.

Consider the following questions:

• How many people are in my household?
• What size will fit in my kitchen?
• How much fresh and frozen food storage space do I really need?
• Are there any special features that I should consider?
• What color and design complement my kitchen best?
• Do I wish to save money by utilizing energy-efficient features?

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Food Preservation
A quality refrigerator does more than just store your food, it prolongs freshness. In order for food to remain its freshest, refrigeration systems must reach all parts of the interior. What good is a refrigerator if the items on the door do not receive the proper cooling? New and improved features, such as temperature-controlled compartments and advanced cooling systems, allow you to enjoy great taste over a longer period of time by helping food remain fresher, longer. Increased customization options make it easier to adjust your refrigerator to your exact preferences.

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Storage
The abundance of adjustable shelves, bins, door racks and more provide incredible variety for a refrigerator's interior. Flexibility and versatility are major conveniences of many fresh and frozen food compartments. With specialized features, such as pizza shelves, slide-out shelves, crispers and gallon door bins, there are many ways to meet your storage needs.

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Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators require a non-stop supply of energy, and energy costs are not cheap. Selecting a refrigerator with an energy-efficient operation may be advantageous. The best way to select an energy efficient refrigerator is to look for the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR is the national symbol for energy efficiency. Refrigerators that have earned the ENERGY STAR label save energy and prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR standards are high, so in order for a model to earn the ENERGY STAR it must adhere to extensive guidelines.

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Side-by-Side Refrigerators	Top-Freezer	Bottom-Freezer	Counter-Depth	Built-In

• Side-by-Side
  Side-by-side refrigerators include 2 full-height doors that open from the center. The freezer compartment is on the left and tends to offer more storage space than other types.  Side-by-side refrigerators keep frozen and cold items at eye level.  Most side-by-side refrigerators offer through-the-door ice and water dispensers for cleaner, healthier and better tasting water, thanks to an internal water filter.  These filters are replaceable and can eliminate the need for bottled water at home.
• Top-Freezer
  Top-freezer refrigerators place the freezer compartment on top. When selecting a top-freezer refrigerator that's right for you, determine your capacity needs as well as which performance features.  Top-freezer refrigerators offer an energy-efficient design and a significant amount of usable storage space. 
• Bottom-Freezer
  Bottom-freezer refrigerators place the fresh food compartment on the top and the frozen food compartment below.  Bottom-freezer refrigerators keep commonly used items at eye level.  Bottom-freezer refrigerators allow you to get in and out of your freezer with ease.  Today’s new models also offer many new features, including through the door ice & water dispensers and French-door style configurations.
• Counter-Depth
  Counter-depth refrigerators are designed to give your kitchen a more "built-in" look. They are not as deep as other types, which allow them to blend in well with your cabinets and counters.  Counter-depth refrigerators have a shallower depth for a streamlined look.  Counter-depth refrigerators protrude a few inches beyond your cabinets, but they still achieve that "built-in" style.  Note that some large capacity models require a 72” cabinet height opening.
• Built-In
  Built-in refrigerators blend in seamlessly with your cabinetry. Cabinet-matching panels are available, allowing you to create a coordinated kitchen display.  Built-in refrigerators align with the cabinetry for a truly blended appearance.  Cabinet-matching panels allow you to custom design your refrigerator's exterior.

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Specialty Refrigerators	Compact Refrigerators	Wine Coolers	Ice Machines

All-Refrigerators/All-Freezers:
All-Refrigerators and All-Freezers allow you to store a significant amount of fresh or frozen food. Some models feature an internal heater for installation in cooler environments, such as the garage or back porch. If you are constantly running out of room in your kitchen refrigerator, consider adding a secondary unit somewhere in your home.

Compact:
Compact refrigerators allow you to store food without taking up a great deal of space. They are ideal for environments with limited space, such as dormitories, offices and studios. Adjustable shelves and door racks allow you to customize the storage area to meet a variety of needs.

Wine Coolers:
Most wine coolers feature adjustable temperature controls, so you'll be able to chill red or white wine at your preferred temperature.  Full-extension shelves allow you to easily access rear bottles without the fear of breaking bottles stored upfront.  You can choose from models with up to 3 separate temperature zones.

Ice Machines:
Under counter ice machines provide you with an ongoing supply of ice. Ideal if you do a lot of entertaining, you can enjoy restaurant-quality cubes in at the convenience of home.   Extra large icemakers can produce up to 60 lbs. of ice a day!