Chest Freezers: It's Not As Difficult As You Think
Choosing Chest FreezersChest freezers are great for those looking to buy frozen food items and other ingredients. They are more spacious than regular refrigerators and freezers, which is why it is important to consider where you want to place them prior to buying.
For example, this large 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 an outage assurance.
Size
Size is a major consideration when selecting a chest freezer. You'll have to consider the amount of storage space you need and what kind of food you'll be storing in it. As a general rule is to allow 2.5 cubic feet per person to your freezer. However, this will differ based on the amount of food you have to store. For instance, if have extra meat or other items to store, you may want to buy a larger freezer than this formula recommends.
Chest freezers are typically classified as medium, small, or large. A small chest freezer can be categorized as having a capacity of 3.5 to 7 cubic feet, while a medium-sized freezer is between 7.1 and 14 cubic feet. Large freezers can hold a volume of 14 to 25+ cubic feet and are the best choice for households with large quantities of food items to store.
When you are choosing a chest-freezer, energy efficiency is also a key factor. Make sure to choose models with an ENERGY STAR label to reduce your electric bills and save you money. It is also important to select the freezer that operates in cold temperatures, as it's likely that you'll be keeping frozen items in your basement or garage.
Some chest freezers have extra features, for example, an interior light and removable storage bins. These features can aid you in organizing your food and locate the items you need. Some hinges are built-in which hold the door at a 45- or 75-degree angle. This will help you avoid bending and straining to reach items, which can be difficult for those who have mobility problems or injuries. They are generally more expensive than their non-frills counterparts.
Energy efficiency
Selecting an energy efficient chest freezer will help reduce electricity bills and also reduce the environmental impact. Energy efficiency depends on the size and the type of freezer selected. There are a variety of factors that can influence the power consumption, such as whether the freezer is manually defrosted or self-defrosting, and its internal temperature. Chest freezers consume less energy than uprights, however when they're equipped with an ice maker they could use more.
They are available in a range of sizes and prices and come with many additional features. Some of these features include an alarm for temperature, a power-outage guarantee, and an interior lighting that makes it easier to locate food items. Certain freezers come with locks to prevent children or thieves from opening the door. These features are worth the extra expense especially in the event that the freezer will be used in a dark place or near a seaside.
It isn't easy to choose the best chest freezer. However, there are some important factors to be considered. The first thing to consider is storage capacity. This is determined by the amount of items you intend to store and the space you have. It is also important to choose freezers that have an energy-efficiency rating that is high and requires minimal maintenance.
Durability is another factor to consider. It will be contingent on the location and frequency of use. The best chest freezers will last for years and can be a great addition to any kitchen. They can help you save money by making fewer trips to the supermarket and by batch cooking meals for the entire week. They are also useful in emergencies.
Storage capacity
Chest freezers come in different sizes, so it is essential to select the appropriate size to meet your requirements. To do this, you should take measurements of the space you plan to store your chest freezer and then compare the sizes of different models. Also, you should consider the capacity of your freezer, in addition to the external and internal dimensions.
Chest freezers can be less expensive than upright freezers and provide more storage space. They are more efficient in energy than upright freezers and save money on utility bills. They also keep food frozen and safe longer than other freezer types in the event of power failure.
You should be aware that upright freezers are easier to maintain than chest freezers. They need to be unplugged and cleaned regularly. Some upright freezers have self-defrosting. In addition chest freezers tend be heavier and bigger than upright freezers. This makes it difficult to move them and may require special handling techniques.
A chest freezer is usually an ideal option for families with large families and those who shop in bulk. They provide a large amount of storage space and can help reduce the number of trips to the grocery store. A smaller family could manage with a small freezer, but you need to think about the type of food you'll be storage. A small freezer is sufficient for storing mostly packaged foods. However, if you're storing large cuts of meat or whole turkeys then a larger freezer might be the best option. If you're storing your freezer in a garage or shed, make sure it is safe from rain and wind. Water can cause corrosion to the mechanical components of the freezer, and leaves and dirt can block the air intake.
Safety features
You should also consider the safety features of chest freezers. The freezer should have a lid that closes securely and lockable hinges to prevent accidental opening of the appliance. It should have a strong and easy-to-grip handle. A light in the freezer will help you to locate your food. A light inside will help you avoid wasting energy by keeping the freezer lit longer. It can also prevent food from spoiling if the freezer is open for a long period of time.
Another important safety feature is a drain hole that is easy to access in the event of water or food leakage. You should also inspect the gaskets and seals frequently to ensure they're intact and free from damage or debris. If the freezer is damaged seals or gaskets, it may be unable to maintain a steady temperature and may require more power to run.
Chest freezers are an excellent option for families with kids because they're more secure than upright models. However, you must be cautious when placing the freezer in the room of a child. Children can easily get into the freezer and eat the contents. This could be dangerous and lead to illness or even death. Some freezers provide locking options which are an ideal option for families with children who are small.
Purchasing a chest freezer is an investment that can last for years. When selecting a model, you should take into account the future requirements of your household. It is also important to consider the space available for installation, and the headroom needed to lift the lid. Additionally, you must consult an electrician professional to verify the electrical requirements of the freezer.
Mobility
Chest freezers are fantastic in storing large quantities of food, but they can be difficult to move. The design is large and requires a lot of space. This includes enough room for the door swinging open, and enough headroom for it to stand upright. The freezers also have a certain electrical rating that can limit the placement options. If you're seeking a freezer that is more mobile, you may want to think about an upright model.
Another aspect to consider when choosing the right chest freezer is the lighting inside. Although most people don't think about this feature when looking for a new freezer but it can make all the difference in terms of convenience and organization. It is easy to locate the items you need with an upright freezer that has an internal light instead of using a flashlight to search through the container. This will also save you energy and keep the temperature stable by reducing the time you leave the lid open.
Some chest freezers have additional storage baskets and dividers that aid in organizing the space within the freezer. This can be a big benefit, especially if trying to store a range of different food items. Some freezers are equipped with a label maker, so you can easily identify what's inside each storage container.
Although the majority of chest freezers can be self-defrosting, some still require manual defrosting. This is a small price to pay for get more info the extra space these freezers offer. They are also more energy efficient than upright models, as they don't consume as much energy to open the lid. They can also stay frozen for three days in the event of a power failure.