Before refrigerators existed, there was no way we could keep our food, dairy products and vegetables fresh for days. Refrigerators have been one of the most important inventions in modern history, and they have become ubiquitous around the world. Most households own a refrigerator, which speaks volumes about their importance. Furthermore, refrigerators are long-term investments. We purchase a new refrigerator, with the hope of not having to replace it for the better part of the next decade.

Thus, buying a new refrigerator is important work, and one must do their due diligence. Researching about the model, the brand, the refrigerator’s capacity, its features and the model’s price tag are just some of the things that we as buyers have to do. That said, there are several other important factors we must take into account, which can influence the working of the new refrigerator.

If you’re thinking about loosening your purse strings for a new model, here are a few things you must remember while making your purchasing decision.

Refrigerator capacity

One of the very first things you have to check for is the refrigerator capacity. As you might already know, refrigerators come in different sizes, and it is important to buy a model that can fit all of your items. If you live in a household with more than 4-5 people, then you would need a refrigerator with a higher capacity. For instance, the best refrigerators come with at least 300 litres of capacity, and if you live in a household with more than 5 members, then the ideal capacity would be 350 – 400 litres.

Single door or double door fridge

Modern refrigerators come in different door configurations, with the two most popular models being single-door refrigerators, and double door refrigerators. Single door refrigerators are quite common in Indian households, and are relatively cheaper. Double-door fridges, also known as French door refrigerators, on the other hand are relatively more expensive, and usually come with more features, and greater capacity. Some of the best refrigerators that come with two doors include LG 260 L Frost Free Double Door 4 Star Refrigerator(GL-I292RPZL.APZZEBN, Shiny Steel, Inverter Compressor), Samsung 253 L 3 Star Frost Free Refrigerator (RT28T3483S8/HL, Elegant Inox), and Haier 320 L 3 Star Frost Free Refrigerator(HRB-3404BS-R/HRB-3404BS-E, Brushline silver, Bottom Freezer). Similarly, you can also opt for a side-by-side free-standing refrigerator.

Refrigerator size

It is important to see the refrigerator’s dimensions, and if the appliance would fit in the space allocated to the refrigerator. Most modern kitchens are either modular, or have to fit various appliances. Furthermore, stand-alone refrigerators are usually tucked away in a corner, which makes it important to confirm that the refrigerator would actually fit inside the kitchen.

Sometimes, people overlook this fact, and regret after purchasing the refrigerator when it doesn’t fit in the space. You wouldn’t want your new refrigerator to stick out like a sore thumb in your modern kitchen.

Top-freezer or bottom-freezer

Traditional refrigerators come with freezers at the top. However, newer models now come with freezers at the bottom. Depending upon your preference and convenience, you can choose either model. Top freezers are preferred by senior citizens, while bottom freezers are the new in-thing in the refrigerator market.

You can also opt for a smart refrigerator that comes with an LED panel with to-do list, along with an ice dispenser. Depending upon your budget and your preference, you can choose a model from top brands like Samsung, Haier and LG, and ensure that the refrigerator blends with the rest of your appliances in the kitchen.

If you are worried about the price tag of the refrigerator, let the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card take care of the expenses. You can divide the cost of your preferred refrigerator model using the EMI Network Card, and repay the amount in monthly instalments, with a tenor that is convenient for you.