The first decision you need to make when buying a new refrigerator is between a side-by-side model, a top-freezer or bottom-freezer unit (one with a freezer on top or along the bottom), or a French door model (side-by-side refrigerator on top, single-door freezer on bottom). Side-by-side refrigerators are more expensive, with features like through-the-door ice/water dispensers and wine racks, and if you have a narrow kitchen, side-by-side refrigerators need less door clearance.

Fit your space
Some compact refrigerator models do not provide very much space for common items. Look for a compact refrigerator that can hold a large container of milk or several canned beverages. If an entire office plans on using the refrigerator, it should be able to accommodate full-size restaurant containers or several frozen dinners. Check to see if shelves can be removed for additional space. Don't automatically select the smallest compact refrigerator available, since a much larger model may cost only a few more.

Energy Consumption
One important consideration when buying a compact refrigerator is energy consumption. Most appliance stores provide this information for all of the compact refrigerator models they offer. An energy usage guide usually compares the amount of electricity required to run the appliance and the efficiency of the appliance.

Shelves and bins
For maximum interior space, look for wide, clear shelves rather than wire. Clear shelves give you more surface area. Some models feature clear shelves that slide out, making it easier to utilize the whole shelf and put food all of the way to the back. Adjustable shelving also provides greater flexibility as your needs change. Refrigerator bins are designed to help you organize and keep track of the food in your refrigerator. Clear door compartments provide the advantage of allowing you to view the contents.

Look for easy-to-reach temperature and humidity controls
Controls should be up front rather than on the back inside wall, where you have to empty a shelf to adjust them. Nice extras include humidity-controlled vegetable crispers and temperature-controlled meat and deli drawers.

Compressor
The more powerful a refrigerator is, the heavier its compressor will be. There is also a metal grid which serves to dissipate the heat generated by the refrigerant. These elements can make a compact refrigerator a little bulky and difficult to carry. You may want to try picking it up at the store to get an idea of what you may need to do once you get it home.

Maintenance
These days, models can be made with special finishes that make fingerprints less visible and require less cleaning. If you are considering a refrigerator with a water dispenser, look for a model with the water filter in the base grille where it is easy to reach and replace. For a low-maintenance interior, look for models with removable refrigerator shelves; solid shelves are obviously easier to clean than wire ones. Also, you should look for freezers which are frost free. You will find that the majority of fridges already come with this feature, which means layers of frost (ice) won't build up over time.

A compact refrigerator may also need a companion compact chest freezer for additional frozen food storage. Look for a small freezer that could be stacked on top of the compact refrigerator or stored nearby.

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Vinay Choubey