Things You'll Need:
- Clear concept of what you plan to freeze
- Floor location chosen
- Adequate electrical power available
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Step 1
The selection:
Selecting the four best freezers must consider the different types of freezers, and which types offer common factors like energy efficiency, storage capacity, ease of packing and unpacking, footprint, defrost options, lighting options, shelf or rack options. -
Step 2
Defrost options:
Defrost options are typically self-defrost or manual-defrost.
Self-defrost: Operates so there is no ice buildup inside the freezer, which allows more opportunity for freezer burn in the drier environment, and adds to energy costs. Self-defrost freezers prevent the need to go through the annual task of defrosting and cleaning, which is required on manual-defrost freezers.
Manual-defrost: Allows ice build up inside the freezer, which provides moisture to the environment. Frozen goods are better preserved and less likely to get freezer burn. Manual-defrost freezers cost less to operate. -
Step 3
Top four:
ConsumerSearch.com lists these four freezers as top choices based on consumer feedback and user input. -
Step 4
1. Kenmore Model 26742 upright is a top choice among consumers. Cost is over $600; capacity is over 16 cubic feet, has self-defrost option. Note: self-defrost typically cost more to operate than manual-defrost.
2. Maytag MQU1654BEW upright. Costs about $500, capacity is over 15 cubic feet, is manual-defrost. Note: Manual-defrost freezers require periodic removal of frozen goods, shutting down freezer so ice buildup melts away, then cleaning and repacking the frozen goods.
3. Whirlpool Model EH151FXR, a manual-defrost chest. Costs $400, capacity is over 14 cubic feet, Energy-Star qualified, manual-defrost. Note: Manual-defrost freezers require periodic removal of frozen goods, shutting down freezer so ice buildup melts away, then cleaning and repacking the frozen goods.
4. Frigidaire Model AFFC1466D self-defrost chest. Cost is $500, capacity is over 13 cubic feet, needs no annual defrosting. Note: Self-defrost typically costs more to operate than manual-defrost.
