Finding the right refrigerator is no easy task - whether you're setting up a new home kitchen or upgrading a restaurant. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. It’s not just about choosing a model that looks good and meets your budget; it’s about finding one that fits your space and meets your specific needs.
So, how do you find the perfect refrigerator for your home or business? Start by evaluating your needs and understanding what features are essential for daily use. Next, dive into research and compare different models to see which ones align with your requirements. Finally, decide whether you’ll shop online or visit a retail store, each with its own set of advantages.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the key considerations to help you find the best refrigerator for both personal and business needs, making sure you make an informed and satisfying choice.
1. Understanding Your Needs Before Buying a Refrigerator
Don't let the excitement of seeing flashy designs and trendy features turn into disappointment. How can this happen, you may ask? Well if the model doesn't truly meet your personal or business needs, you will face this sticky situation. Imagine you get excited about a new fridge delivery only to find out it's too small to store all your groceries at home or to meet the rigid food safety standards in a commercial kitchen. These mistakes can be costly and frustrating. Even though most merchants accept returns within a certain timeframe, it's never fun to start over and research another model.
A Checklist for Personal or Business Use
Believe it or not, people tend to underestimate their needs. It's so tempting to focus only on the current situation and overlook the potential future changes. Measuring the dimension is easy to do, but there are more things to consider in terms of space and storage needs.
1. Measure Your Space
- Dimensions: Measure accurately - not just once, but twice. You should start off by measuring the height, width, and depth of the area where you want to place the refrigerator. Choose a location where people can have easy access without blocking the pathway. For home use, evaluate how it can fit within the existing kitchen layout. For business use, consider to add additional space for ventilation and access, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Clearance: Allow for sufficient clearance around the unit for door swings and ventilation. If you put the refrigerator in a corner, allow adequate space for operation and maintenance. Will another person have easy access to the front or back of the refrigerator? Can you open and close the door with a full swing? These are the details you must take into consideration when measuring.
2. Determine Storage Capacity
- Household Needs: How many people currently live in your household? How often do you go to grocery shopping? What type of food do you like to buy the most, frozen or fresh foods? Will you start shopping in bulk? And do you plan to have more kids in the near future? Are you planning to cook more? These are just a few typical questions you should ask yourself when assessing your food storage requirements.
- Business Needs: Based on your current operational scale, how much is the volume of inventory or ingredients your business needs to store? Will you expand your business? Does it make sense to upgrade the refrigerator sooner than expected? These are valid questions to ask yourself as a business owner. Opt for larger commercial models (e.g., reach-in or walk-in refrigerators) that can accommodate high volumes of stock. We carry refrigerators ranging from 1 door to 3 door configuration, with the capacity from 23 to 54 cubic feet.
3. Evaluate Features and Functions
- Adjustable Shelves
- Temperature Controls
Commercial Refrigerators: This key feature is a must for its ability to maintain a stable temperature, despite the frequent door openings and closings. At Westlake, we make this easier with a range of features designed for top-notch performance. From the powerful Embraco compressor to the high-efficiency fans that circulate air evenly, from the advanced digital thermostats and sensors that continuously monitor and adjust the temperature, to the heavy-duty insulation that minimizes the impact of frequent door openings, we can ensure that everything stays at the perfect level.
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Ice Maker/Water Dispenser:
Let's examine our daily habits now. Ask yourself a few questions: how often do I crave a refreshing icy drink? Will it save my days if I don't have to run to the store last minute for some ice bags? These types of questions will help you determine how much you need an ice maker. For someone who answers yes to these questions, having an ice maker in the fridge will be a game-changer. But for someone who likes to drink hot tea, not so much.
What about a water dispenser? Does your home have a filtered water system already? Do you like using a water pitcher and run to the sink countless times every day? Are you tired of using plastic bottles all the time? A built-in water dispenser makes a perfect addition for people who want chilled water instantly despite wasting plastic bottles.
4. Set Your Budget
However, the initial cost is only part of the equation. Factor in long-term expenses, such as energy consumption and maintenance costs. Energy-efficient models, like those from Westlake, may have a higher upfront price but can save you money on electricity bills over time. Check the Energy Star rating and estimated annual operating costs to make an informed decision.
Also, consider potential maintenance and repair expenses. Routine maintenance typically ranges from $150 to $300 per visit. Westlake commercial refrigerators are designed with ease of maintenance in mind. Many of our models are straightforward to care for, often requiring minimal professional intervention. This means you can save money by handling most maintenance tasks yourself. We provide detailed instructions and a blog post to help you with upkeep, reducing the need to hire a technician for routine tasks.
5. Consider Future Needs
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Home Use: Imagine how your household might evolve. If you’re planning to expand your family or start cooking and storing more food, it’s smart to choose a fridge that can grow with you. Look for features like adjustable shelves and extra storage space so you’re not stuck with a fridge that’s too small as your needs change.
Business Use: For businesses, think about how your operations might scale up. If you anticipate more customers or a broader range of products, pick a refrigerator that can handle future growth. Look for models that offer extra capacity, flexible shelving, or strong cooling performance. Choosing a fridge that can adapt to increased demand will help you avoid the hassle and cost of replacing it too soon.
2. Research and Compare Options
Identify Potential Models:
Start by narrowing down your choices based on your needs. Since you've done your homework in step 1, you should be more clear on what matters to you. Now it's the time to browse online or visit retailers. Grab your list of models that fit your criteria. You may have a brand in mind, but don't be limited to a particular brand. Be open-minded. Reputable brands usually have great warranty programs, even if they are not the major ones in the market. Don't forget to check out various online resources and user reviews to get a sense of what's available and what might suit your space best.
Compare Features:
You should have a checklist of the features that are most important to you. When comparing different models, always check on the list. Look at things like adjustable shelves, temperature control systems, and energy efficiency ratings. If you go to a store unprepared, it's more tempting to shop by the look or price. Look closely on what the models offer by reading product descriptions or asking questions.
Read Reviews:
Even though you prefer to buy from a retail store like Lowes or Bestbuy, it's a good idea to read reviews of the modesl you like. Online user reviews are a goldmine to discover how the refrigerator performs on a daily basis. Real life experiences with customer service and product durability are valuable guidance to your purchase decision. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view.
Consider Brands and Warranties:
Compare the warranty coverage for each model—more extensive coverage can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected repair costs. A good warranty is a real asset if you run into issues. All Westlake products come with a 2-year warranty on the entire refrigerator and a 6-year warranty specifically for the compressor. Plus, our warranty covers residential addresses, which sets us apart from many other brands.
Check Energy Efficiency:
Look at the energy ratings and estimated annual operating costs of the models you’re considering. Energy-efficient refrigerators can save you money on your utility bills and are better for the environment, so they’re worth considering even if they come with a higher upfront cost.
Get Quotes and Compare Prices:
Gather quotes from multiple retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Don’t just compare the sticker prices; include delivery and installation fees in your comparison. Many online retailers charge extra for residential addresses. Their delivery time can vary greatly from the estimated time. So, don't rush to the least expensive sticker price. Ask the company: will it be more expensive once all costs are considered?
At Bitimexhome, we always offer free shipping to nationwide locations, including residences. You can sign up or contact us to get extra discounts. We dispatch the product in 1-2 business days and ship out from the nearest warehouse to ensure the fastest delivery.
Evaluate Customer Service:
Is it easy to get in touch with the customer service team? How responsive they are? Do they sound like they care about the customers? The quality of customer service can make a huge difference throughout your purchase and beyond. If you encounter any red flags, it's wise to reconsider, even if the price seems appealing. Below are our promises to our customers. Please contact us if you have any questions.
3. Decide to Make a Purchase: Online vs. Retail Stores
Online Shopping
Pros:
Shopping online is super convenient. You can just lounge on your couch and browse through a huge selection of fridges without ever leaving your home. It’s a breeze to compare prices and grab special deals that might not be available in local stores. Plus, you’ve got easy access to tons of reviews, which can really help you make an informed decision.
For example, Amazon has many good reviews on Westlake commercial refrigeration products, which can give you a good sense of how our products are received. However, Bitimexhome often offers better prices because we don’t have the same commission fees as Amazon. Plus, we provide personalized quote options and one-on-one support to give you a more tailored shopping experience.
Cons:
But, there are a few things to watch out for. Since you can't see or touch the fridge before buying, it might not be exactly what you expected. That’s why it’s smart to dig into reviews and ask the company any questions you have before you commit. Unlike big retailers like Walmart or Amazon, where reaching the seller can be a challenge, we make it a point to respond quickly—usually within the same day. Feel free to call or email us if you need any help; we’re here to make sure you get exactly what you need.
Retail Stores
Pros:
Shopping in retail stores has its benefits, too. You get to see and touch the fridge before buying, which can be really reassuring. If the model you want is in stock, you can schedule delivery right away. Plus, you can chat with knowledgeable staff who can provide personalized advice and answer any questions you have on the spot.
Cons:
However, shopping in-store can be challenging. Unlike online stores, retail shops have limited space to display products. You will expect to see a very limited selection. Their prices might be higher due to overhead costs. Plus, you’ll need to find time to visit the store in their business hours, avoid the crowd etc. Worst of all, there might be sales pressure. It's no easy task compared to shopping from your comfortable couch.
Final Words
Shopping for residential or commercial refrigerators can be a lengthy process - with all the different brands, models, and retailers on the market. But one thing is always true - preparation is the key to success. You can prepare yourself to make this process more successful. That is to understand your specific needs, create a personalized list of features and models, compare the prices and request quotes if possible, and then decide where to buy. You can read tons of information online, but don't forget to get in touch with real people from the seller you might be interested in.
Don't overpay with other retailers or compromise on the quality and nutrition of the food you store. Call Bitimexhome today at 1-214-560-6185 to explore the Westlake selection of top-quality brand-new refrigerators. We are a group of passionate customer advocates determined to make your customer service experience a memorable one.
