Choosing Chest Freezers
Chest freezers are great for people who want to stock up on frozen foods and ingredients. They are more spacious than normal freezers and refrigerators, so it is important to consider where you want to place them prior to buying.
For instance, this massive deep freezer from GE offers plenty of storage space and includes practical features such as an external power light. It also comes with a wide temperature range as well as a power outage guarantee.
Size
Size is an important consideration when selecting a chest freezer. You'll have to consider the amount of storage space you'll need, and what type of foods you'll be storing in it. A good rule of thumb is to allocate 2.5 cubic feet of freezer space per person in your household however this can vary depending on the amount of food items you usually store. If you have extra food items and meat to store, for example you might want to purchase a larger freezer.
Chest freezers can be classified as medium, small or large. A small chest freezer can be categorized as having a capacity of 3.5 to 7 cubic feet, and the medium-sized freezer can range from 7.1 and 14 cubic feet. Large freezers can hold a volume of between 14 and 25+ cubic feet and are the ideal choice for households with a large amount of food items to store.
Energy efficiency is another key feature when selecting a chest freezer. Look for models that are ENERGY STAR to save money and lower the cost of electricity. You should also select one that is able to operate in cold temperatures because it's likely you'll be storing frozen goods in a basement or garage.
Some chest freezers come with extra features, such as an interior light and removable storage bins. These can make it easier to organize your food and find the items you're looking for. There are hinges built-in that keep the door open at an angle of 45 or 75 degrees. angle. This can help you avoid bending and straining to reach for items which could be a challenge for those with mobility problems or injuries. These freezers are usually more expensive than their non-frills counterparts.
Energy efficiency
The choice of a energy-efficient chest freezer can help lower electricity costs and lower environmental impact. The size and the type of freezer you pick will determine the energy efficiency. The energy consumption of a freezer is affected by a range of factors, including the temperature inside and whether it is defrosting by itself or manually. Most chest freezers consume less power than upright freezers, but they can consume more energy if they have an ice maker.
They are available in a range of sizes and prices, and include a variety of additional features. They may include an alarm for temperature as well as a power outage assurance and an inside light that makes it easier to locate food. Some even have a locking mechanism to stop thieves or children from opening the freezer. These extra features could be worth the cost, especially if are planning to store the freezer in a dark area or if you live near a beach that is salty.
While it can be difficult to choose the best chest freezer, there are a few important factors to consider. The first aspect to consider is storage capacity. This is determined by the number of items you are planning to store and the amount of space you have. In addition you should search for an appliance that has an energy-efficient rating and low maintenance requirements.
Another aspect to take into consideration is the durability of the freezer, which will be contingent on the location and the frequency with which it is used. The top chest freezers last for a long time and be a great addition to any kitchen. They can help you save money by reducing trips to the store and can help you prepare meals in bulk for the week. They are also useful in emergencies.
Storage capacity
The capacity of storage in chest fridge freezers differs by size, and it's important to select the best one to meet your needs. To achieve this, you need to measure the space in which you intend to store your chest freezer and then compare the sizes of the different models. Also, you should take into account the freezer's capacity, as well as the internal and external dimensions.
Chest freezers are often less expensive than upright freezers, and they offer plenty of storage space for the money. They are more efficient in energy than upright freezers and can reduce the cost of utility bills. They also ensure food is safe and frozen longer than other freezer types during a power failure.
But, keep in mind that chest freezers require more care than upright freezers. They must be unplugged and maintained regularly. Some upright freezers have self-defrosting. In addition chest freezers tend be larger and heavier than upright freezers. This can make it difficult to move them, and could require special handling methods.
A chest freezer is generally a good option for large families as well as those who shop in the bulk. They provide a large amount of storage space and can help reduce the number of trips to the store. A smaller family could make do with a smaller freezer, but you need to think about the kind of food you'll be storage. If you're storing mostly pre-packaged meals, then a small freezer may be enough. If you're storing large turkeys or other cuts of meat, a larger freezer could be a better option. If you're keeping your freezer in a shed or garage be sure that it is protected from wind and rain. Water can damage the mechanical parts of the freezer, while leaves and dirt can clog the air intake.
Safety features
In addition to considering the size and energy efficiency of chest freezers, it is important to look for security features. The freezer must have a lid that closes securely and lockable hinges to stop accidental opening of the appliance. It should have a sturdy grip that is easy to hold. A light inside the freezer can make it easier to locate your food. Having an interior light can help avoid wasting energy by keeping the freezer illuminated longer. It can also keep food from spoiling if the freezer is left open for a long period of time.
A drain hole that is easily accessed in case of leakage of food or water is a crucial security feature. Make sure to inspect the gaskets and seals regularly to ensure that they are in good shape and free of debris or damage. Seals that are damaged will affect the freezer's ability keep an even temperature. It could also require more power.
Chest freezers are an excellent option for families with children because they're safer than upright models. Be cautious when putting the freezer in your child's bedroom. A child can easily climb into the freezer and eat the contents. This could be risky and lead to sickness or even death. Certain freezers come with locking options which is a great option for families with children.
A chest freezer is a durable investment. When choosing a model, you should also take into account the future requirements of your household. It is important to consider the space available for installation and take into account the required headroom needed to lift the lid. Additionally, you must consult a professional electrician to verify the electrical requirements of the freezer.
Mobility
While chest freezers are great for storing large quantities of food, they can be challenging to move. The design is bulky and requires a significant amount of space. This includes enough room for the door to swing open, and enough room to stand upright. The freezers also have a particular electrical rating, which may limit the placement options. If you're looking for a freezer which is more portable, you could consider an upright model.
Another thing to keep in mind when deciding on the best chest freezer is the lighting inside. While the majority of people don't consider this feature when looking for a new freezer, it can make all the difference in terms of convenience and organization. You can quickly locate the items you require with the help of a chest freezer with an internal light instead of having to use flashlights to look through the container. This will also reduce the amount of time you're left with the lid open, which will aid in keeping the temperature stable and conserve energy.
Certain chest freezers come with additional storage baskets and dividers to can help you organize the space within the freezer. This can be a big benefit, especially if trying to store a variety of different foods. Some freezers have an option to label the contents so you can easily identify the contents of each storage container.
Although the majority of chest freezers are self-defrosting, some require manual defrosting. But this is a minor sacrifice for the additional storage space these freezers can provide. They are also more efficient than upright models because they require less energy to open the lid. Plus, they can stay frozen for up to three days after power outages.