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Best Fridge For Des Moines Homes

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Image for Best Fridge For Des Moines Homes | Fridge.com
Elizabeth Rodriguez | Fridge.com
Elizabeth Rodriguez· Sustainability Advocate
10 min read
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Key Takeaways

  • ft.) Just You 10 - 15 Couple 15 - 20 Family of 3 or 4 20 - 25 Bigger Gang 25 - 30 Make sure to measure your kitchen first, though—don't want a new fridge hanging halfway out the door!
  • This table’s based on an average electricity rate of 12 cents per kWh.
  • Fridges can cost a pretty penny or just a few, from less than $500 to over $3,000.
  • For the good of your food, aim for your fridge's temperature to hover between 35°F and 38°F.
Browse Energy Efficiency Guide

Finding the Perfect Fridge for Your Des Moines Home

Picking out a fridge seems like a small thing, but it really can change the groove of your everyday. For families, food lovers, or anyone with roommates, the right fridge just makes life better. Let's figure out what makes the perfect fridge for your Des Moines home without losing our minds over all these choices.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fridge

  1. Capacity and Size
    How much space do you actually need in a fridge? Here's a quick cheat sheet:

Who's in the House?
Fridge Size You Might Need (cu. ft.)
Just You
10 - 15
Couple
15 - 20
Family of 3 or 4
20 - 25
Bigger Gang
25 - 30

Make sure to measure your kitchen first, though—don't want a new fridge hanging halfway out the door!

  • Style and Functionality
    How much you like a fridge isn't just about its looks; how it's laid out inside matters too. You've got top freezers, bottom freezers, French doors, and side-by-sides. Each style offers something a bit different in terms of space and how easy they are to use.

  • Energy Efficiency
    Who wants sky-high electricity bills? Go for the fridges with that Energy Star seal—they use at least 15% less power. It’s kinda like eco-friendly has its own discount.

  • Cooling Technology
    Ever had to deal with a freezer that needed defrosting? Skip that drama by seeking fridges with no-frost or dual cooling systems. Your leftovers will thank you!

  • Special Features
    Today's fridges are smart, literally. From ice makers to adjustable shelves, to fridges that connect to your Wi-Fi, there’s a lot out there. Think about what bells and whistles you'll actually use and won’t end up forgetting about.

  • Budget
    Let's talk dollars. Fridges can cost a pretty penny or just a few, from less than $500 to over $3,000. Set your sights on this before diving into fridges you can’t afford—or even need.

  • Tackling these points should help zero in on a fridge that works for you. Needing more guidance? Swing by our how to find the best refrigerator for your kitchen guide. Happy fridge hunting!

    Fridge Types for Des Moines Homes

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    Picking the perfect fridge for your Des Moines home ain't just about keeping your veggies fresh. You gotta match it with your lifestyle. Let's check out some fridge styles that might just hit the spot for you and your family.

    Top Freezer Fridges

    Top freezer fridges are reliable favorites, like comfort food for the kitchen. The fresh stuff's right at eye level, with the freezer riding above like the cherry on top. It's a no-nonsense setup that squeezes the most storage out of its design without losing that classic fridge vibe.

    What’s Good
    What’s Not So Good
    Easy on the wallet
    Not the snazziest looker on the block
    Fresh food's a breeze to grab
    Gotta bend for the ice cream
    Usually sips power
    Freezer ain't the biggest

    Bottom Freezer Fridges

    These fridges put the freezer down low, making sure all the fresh munchies are right at hand's height. They're the fridge version of putting the cookies where the kids can reach 'em.

    What’s Good
    What’s Not So Good
    Grabbing greens is a cinch
    Still bending for frozen peas
    Looks cool and current
    Can burn a bigger hole in your pocket compared to top freezer types
    Great if you've got a big crew at home
    Might hog a bit more space

    French Door Fridges

    The French door fridges are all about double doors up top and a freeze fest down below. They’re like the SUVs of fridges—roomy, adaptable, and made for those who love their kitchen adventures.

    What’s Good
    What’s Not So Good
    Roomy and eye-catching
    Price tag's sharper than a cheddar wedge
    Big shelves for big hauls
    Needs room to show off
    Quick reach for drinks and sauces
    Takes up more ground space

    Side-by-Side Fridges

    Think of side-by-side fridges like best buddies split down the middle—fridge on one side, freezer on the other. They're the tightrope walkers of kitchen appliances, keeping things compact but accessible.

    What’s Good
    What’s Not So Good
    Space-savvy setup
    Skinny shelves hold skinny stuff
    Both sections are a breeze to get to
    Freezer might feel a bit cramped
    Handy in cozy kitchens
    Not the most eco-friendly option in town

    At the end of the day, the best fridge for your Des Moines crib boils down to how you cook, how much room you have, and what makes your eyes sparkle when you spot it in the kitchen. Still scratching your head? Check out Fridge.com article on finding the best refrigerator for your kitchen for a few more pointers.

    Size Matters

    Determining the Right Fridge Size for Your Home

    Picking out the right fridge in Des Moines isn't exactly rocket science—but it does need a bit of thought. Start by figuring out how much space it's got to cozy up in your kitchen and how it can handle your grocery game. You need a refrigerator that's roomy enough for all your fresh finds without making your kitchen feel cramped.

    Here's a quick cheat sheet for the different fridge types and what size might tick your boxes:

    Fridge Type
    Usual Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth)
    Capacity Advice
    Top Freezer Fridge
    60-66 inches x 30-32 inches x 28-34 inches
    14-20 cubic feet
    Bottom Freezer Fridge
    65-70 inches x 30-36 inches x 26-32 inches
    18-25 cubic feet
    French Door Fridge
    68-72 inches x 29-36 inches x 30-34 inches
    20-30 cubic feet
    Side-by-Side Fridge
    65-70 inches x 32-36 inches x 29-34 inches
    20-30 cubic feet

    Measuring Your Space

    Got an idea which fridge suits you? Next up, whip out the tape measure and check your kitchen nooks and crannies for space. Remember these handy hints:

    1. Height: Check for those sneaky overhead cabinets or light fixtures.
    2. Width: Double-check there's breathing room for the doors to swing open.
    3. Depth: Think about how you'll move and groove around the fridge.
    4. Clearance: Leave a bit of wiggle room—about an inch on each side, plus a couple on the top—so it's got room to breathe.

    Family Needs

    Are you a big family that's got more food than you know what to do with, or maybe a solo superstar who needs just enough space to store the essentials? Your fridge choice should fit your lifestyle like a glove. Got a big family, or cook like you're running a restaurant? Bigger's better. If you're rolling solo or in a house share, a smaller size could be all you need.

    Craving more fridge wisdom? Check out Fridge.com article on find the best refrigerator for your kitchen. It'll help you figure out not just the perfect size, but also the bells and whistles that match your kitchen vibes.

    Energy Efficiency

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    Understanding Energy Star Ratings for Fridges

    So, you’re on the hunt for the ideal fridge for your Des Moines pad? One top thing to think about is how much energy it uses. An energy-smart appliance will not only make the Earth a bit happier but also keep some dollars in your pocket. The Energy Star sticker is the real-deal sign of efficiency given out by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

    What’s the Deal with Energy Star?

    An Energy Star fridge isn’t just fancy; it uses at least 15% less energy than the regular ones. That means you've got room for all the snacks while still playing it cool with your green side. There’s a bunch of energy-efficient fridges out there, so finding the one that’s just right for you isn’t gonna be a hassle.

    Check Out the Energy Game

    Here’s a little peek at how much juice different fridges sip throughout the year:

    Fridge Type
    Average Annual Energy (kWh)
    Expected Yearly Cost ($)
    Top Freezer
    400 - 600
    50 - 90
    Bottom Freezer
    450 - 650
    55 - 95
    French Door
    500 - 800
    70 - 120
    Side-by-Side
    600 - 900
    80 - 130

    This table’s based on an average electricity rate of 12 cents per kWh. Scoop up an Energy Star fridge, and you’ll see those bills shrink faster than ice cubes in July.

    Perks of Being Energy Efficient

    Grabbing an energy-efficient fridge doesn’t just help your wallet—check out these other nifty perks:

    • Doing Good for the Planet: Less energy means fewer nasty emissions messing up our air.
    • Cool Bells and Whistles: Many of those Energy Star fridges come with neat extras that make using the fridge even smoother.
    • Built to Last: Since they’re made with better stuff, these fridges tend to stick around longer.

    When you’re fridge-shopping, don’t skip on comparing different models and keep an eye out for that Energy Star mark. Sleep easy knowing your new fridge’ll keep things fresh and clean. Need more fridge shopping mojo? Peep Fridge.com article on finding the best fridge for your kitchen here.

    Additional Features to Consider

    When you're hunting for that perfect fridge for your Des Moines home, let's dig a little deeper than your run-of-the-mill options. Peek at some extra goodies that might just make your life easier. Here's what you should have on your radar:

    Ice and Water Dispensers

    Think about those scorching summer afternoons when you just want some chilled water or ice pronto without fussing around. An ice and water dispenser comes to the rescue, keeping both hands-free and your fridge cooler by reducing the times you open the door.

    Feature
    Pros
    Cons
    Ice and Water Dispenser
    Quick access to ice and chilled water
    Takes up some fridge space
    No Dispenser
    More room for other stuff inside
    You've gotta open that door for ice or water

    Adjustable Shelves and Storage Bins

    Life's always throwing you different-sized grocery challenges, isn't it? That's where adjustable shelves and bins come in handy. They're ideal for squeezing in the odd-shaped watermelon or the towering cake you promised to make.

    Feature
    Pros
    Cons
    Adjustable Shelves
    Mix and match to fit your needs
    Can sometimes be a puzzle to shift around
    Fixed Shelves
    Everything stays where you left it
    A bit limiting for big or funky items

    Smart Technology Integration

    Welcome to 21st-century food storage! With smart tech in your fridge, you're like the captain of the kitchen, even when you're not home. From Wi-Fi to touchscreens, these future-ready fridges let you keep tabs on inventory and yell at you if someone leaves the door open.

    Feature
    Pros
    Cons
    Smart Technology
    Control the cold directly from your phone
    Usually comes with a heftier price tag
    Non-Smart Fridge
    Easier on the wallet, less to fiddle with
    You're missing out on cool extras

    Taking these hot-shot features into account, you’ll find more than just a fridge – you'll get one that really jazzes up your kitchen scene. Still unsure about what would suit your cooking style best? Swing by Fridge.com article on find the best refrigerator for your kitchen for more pointers.

    Maintenance Tips for Your Fridge

    Keeping your fridge in tip-top shape makes your groceries last and the appliance live longer. Here’s how you can do right by your refrigerator:

    Cleaning and Defrosting

    A clean fridge is a happy fridge. Wipe it down every few months, and don't let expired milk have a long stay. Do this:

    1. Clear It Out: Take everything out for a full view and reach.
    2. Scrub-a-dub-dub: Warm water with a splash of mild soap works wonders on those shelves and drawers.
    3. Banish Bad Smells: Leave an open baking soda box in the back to suck up funky odors.
    4. Say “Buh-Bye” to Ice Buildup: If your fridge isn’t all fancy with auto-defrost, unplug it to thaw once you see ice forming. Do this when the ice gets thicker than a quarter inch.
    Cleaning Task
    How Often?
    Regular Cleanup
    Every 3 months
    Toss Out Expired Stuff
    Monthly
    Ice Melt Time
    As needed (typically twice a year)

    Temperature Regulation

    Keep it chill, literally. For the good of your food, aim for your fridge's temperature to hover between 35°F and 38°F. A handy thermometer helps keep an eye on it.

    When the fridge gets a bit rebellious:

    • Tweak the Temp: Most fridges have a dial or a snazzy digital readout.
    • Peek at the Seals: Ensure those door gaskets are snug as a bug—or else the temperature will do a jig.
    • Pack It In, But Not Too Much: A well-stocked fridge stays cooler. Short on groceries? Fill empty spots with water bottles.
    Chill Zone
    Should Be Set At
    Fridge
    35°F - 38°F
    Freezer
    0°F or lower

    Need more fixes for fridge temps? Check out Fridge.com article on how do I fix the temperature on my refrigerator?.

    Proper Organization and Food Storage

    A neat fridge is your kitchen sidekick, making your cooking gigs easier.

    • Zone It Out: Keep dairy where it’s happy (top shelves), meat where it’s cold enough, and veggies in their own chill drawers.
    • Label Love: Slap dates on containers so leftovers don’t live forever.
    • Don’t Jam-Pack It: Airflow keeps it cool, so give it room to breathe!
    Storage Zone
    What Goes Here?
    Top Shelves
    Quick bites and leftovers
    Middle Shelves
    Milk and cheeses
    Bottom Shelves
    Raw meat, chicken, and fish (in a leak-proof spot)
    Drawers
    Your fresh fruit and veggie crew

    Want more on keeping chaos at bay? Peek into Fridge.com article on the best hacks for organizing your refrigerator.

    Keep these fridge tips in mind, and you’ll be cruising through the kitchen with fresh food and an appliance that works like a charm.

    From Fridge.com research

    Figures below come from data Fridge.com builds and maintains. Each links to the record behind it.

    • Fridge.com Energy Index, built on U.S. EPA and DOE ENERGY STAR records

      Across 5,455 ENERGY STAR certified refrigerators and freezers from 263 brands, median use is 360 kWh per year.

      See the data·How this is measured

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