Choosing Chest Freezers
Chest freezers are great for those looking to stock up on frozen foods and other items. These appliances are larger than normal refrigerators and freezers, so you must think about the best place to put them before buying.
For instance, this massive deep freezer from GE offers plenty of storage space and convenient features like an exterior power light. It also comes with a broad temperature range as well as a power outage guarantee.
Size
When you are choosing the size of a chest freezer, it is a major consideration. You'll need to think about the amount of storage space you'll need and what type of foods you'll store in it. A best practice is to allow 2.5 cubic feet of freezer space for each person in your household but this could differ based on the quantity of food you typically store. For instance, if have extra meat or produce to store, you may need to purchase a larger freezer than this formula recommends.
Chest freezers are generally classified as small, medium or large. A small chest freezer can store between 3.5 to 7 cubic feet of food, while the medium size chest freezer holds between 7.1 to 14 cubic feet. Large freezers can hold a volume of between 14 and 25+ cubic feet, and are the best option for households with a large amount of food to store.
When you are choosing a chest-freezer, energy efficiency is also an important factor. Look for models that have an ENERGY STAR label to reduce your electricity bills and save money. You should also select one that is able to operate in a cold environment because it's likely you'll be storing frozen items in a garage or basement.
Some chest freezers have extra features, such as storage bins that can be removed and an internal light. These features can aid you in organizing your food and locate the items you require. There are hinges built-in that allow the door to open at a 45 or 75 degree angle. This will prevent you from bending and straining to reach for items that can be difficult for people with mobility issues or injuries. These freezers are generally more expensive than their basic counterparts.
Energy efficiency
Choose an energy-efficient chest freezer to reduce your electricity bills and impact on the environment. The size and the type of freezer you choose will determine the energy efficiency. There are a number of factors that affect the amount of power consumed, including whether the freezer is defrosted manually or self-defrosting, and its internal temperature. Generally, chest freezers consume less power than upright freezers however, they may use more if they have an ice maker.
They are available in a variety of sizes and costs, and come with many additional features. They can include an alarm for temperature, a power outage promise, and an interior light that makes it easier to find food. Some freezers are equipped with locks to prevent children or thieves from opening it. These additional features can be worth the cost, particularly if you plan on using the freezer in a dark place or if you live near a beach that is salty.
It isn't easy to choose the ideal chest freezer. However, there are some important factors to be considered. The first is storage capacity that is determined by the number of items you'd like to store and how much space you have. You should also look for freezers that have an energy-efficiency rating that is high and requires minimal maintenance.
Another factor to consider is the durability of the freezer, which is contingent on the location and the frequency with which it is used. best freezer uk will last for years and can be an excellent addition to any kitchen. They can save you money by cutting down on trips to the store and also by assisting you to batch cook meals for the week. They can be useful for emergencies.
Storage capacity
The capacity of storage for chest freezers differs by size, and it's essential to select the right one to meet your needs. The best way to do this is to measure the space where you intend to store your freezer and then examine the dimensions of various models. You should also take into account the freezer's capacity, in addition to the external and internal dimensions.
Chest freezers are often cheaper than upright freezers and offer plenty of storage space for price. They are usually more energy-efficient than upright freezers, saving energy and money on utility bills. They also ensure food is safe and frozen longer than other freezers in the event of a power outage.
It is important to know that upright freezers are simpler to maintain than chest freezers. They must be unplugged and maintained regularly. Some upright freezers can self-defrost. Additionally, chest freezers tend to be heavier and bigger than upright freezers. This makes it difficult to move them and could require special handling techniques.
Generally speaking, chest freezers are a good option for large families or those who buy in large quantities. They can provide plenty of storage space, and also reduce the number of trips to the store. You can use a compact freezer for a family with fewer members however, you should think about what type of food you will be storing. If you're storing mostly packaged meals, then a smaller freezer might be sufficient. If you're planning to store large turkeys or other cuts of meat, a bigger freezer could be a better alternative. If you're storing your freezer in a garage or shed, make sure it is protected from rain and wind. Water can corrode the mechanical components of the freezer, while leaves and dirt can block the air intake.
Safety features
You should also consider the security features of chest freezers. The freezer should be equipped with lids that are securely closed and hinges that lock to prevent accidental opening. It should have a strong, easy-to-grip handle. A light inside the freezer can make it easier to find your food. A light inside will help you avoid wasting energy by keeping the freezer illuminated longer. It can also to prevent food from spoiling when the freezer is open for a prolonged period of time.
A drain hole that can be easily accessed in the event of the 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 condition and free of any debris or damage. If the freezer has damaged seals or gaskets, it may lose its ability to maintain a steady temperature and may require more power to operate.
Chest freezers are an excellent option for families with children because they're safer than upright models. However, be careful when positioning the freezer in a child's bedroom. A child can easily climb into the freezer and eat the contents. This could be risky and lead to illness or even death. Certain freezers are equipped with locking options which is a great choice for homes with young children.
Purchasing a chest freezer is an investment that can last for years. When selecting a model you should also be aware of the future requirements of your household. You should also take into consideration the space you have available for installation and the headroom needed to lift the lid. In addition, you should consult a professional electrician to confirm the electrical requirements of the freezer.
Mobility
While chest freezers are great for storing large quantities of food items, they can also be difficult to move. The design is heavy and requires a large amount of space. This includes enough room for the door swinging open, and enough room to stand on its own. They also require a certain electrical power rating, which may restrict your options for the location. If you're looking for a freezer which is more mobile, you may want to think about an upright model.
Another aspect to consider when selecting the right chest freezer is the lighting inside. While the majority of people don't consider this feature when looking for a new freezer but it can make all the difference in terms of convenience and organization. You can quickly locate the items you require using a chest freezer that has an interior light, instead of having to use a flashlight to navigate the box. It will also help you conserve energy and preserve the temperature by reducing the time you leave the lid open.
Some chest freezers have additional storage baskets and dividers that aid in organizing the freezer's space. This can be a big benefit, especially if trying to store a variety of different food items. Some freezers even come with a label maker, to make it easy to identify what is in each storage container.
Some chest freezers still require manual defrosting. But, this is a small sacrifice for the additional storage space that these freezers provide. They also tend to be more energy-efficient than upright models because they don't require the same amount of energy when opening the lid. Plus, they can stay frozen for up to three days during an outage.