Refrigerator shopping is tricky; there are many makes, models, and configurations to consider. The finish and energy efficiency characteristics are pointless if the appliance cannot meet your basic needs for efficient food storage. The two most common refrigerator/freezer configurations are top freezer and bottom freezer models. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of both models to help you make an informed decision.

Top Freezer Refrigerators

This is a timeless design that may not add much in terms of aesthetic appeal to a modern kitchen. But, they are reliable, dependable, and affordable appliances. They are also easy to access, energy efficient, and have a lot of food storage space. If you don’t need much freezer space or the latest features, a top freezer refrigerator is a good choice.

Pros:

• These refrigerators are a great fit for smaller kitchens.
• They have plenty of easy to access food storage space.
• The energy efficient models are cheap to use.
• The freezer compartment access is easy for most people.
• Top freezer refrigerators are affordable.

Cons:

• There is no freezer drawer to pull out.
• There are no ice or water dispenser options.
• The organization options are limited due to the space constraints.
• These models may not match a very modern kitchen design.

Bottom Freezer Refrigerators

This refrigerator configuration has become very popular in the last decade with French door and side-by-side door options. But, even a single door model is easy to access, and there is ample food storage space for families that make bulk food purchases. The refrigerated food items are always within reach, and it’s easier to organize the storage areas to improve efficiency. There is a caveat, bottom freezer refrigerators cost more, and they tend to consume more energy.

Pros:

• The food can be stacked in the freezer compartment.
• All refrigerated food is stored at eye or shoulder height.
• The design is modern, and it will suit a contemporary kitchen design.
• This configuration is ideal for small or average size families.

Cons:

• A bottom refrigerator freezer is more expensive.
• The stored food can be lost at the bottom of the freezer compartment.
• The freezer drawer can only be accessed by bending or squatting,
• The energy consumption is higher than top refrigerator freezer models.

Buying Considerations

There are three key features that you should consider to narrow your choices:

1. Storage: Generally speaking, bottom freezer models have improved storage options with extra organizational features. There may be more shelves, compartments, pull-out baskets, and other helpful options.
2. Energy Efficiency: As we mentioned above, a top freezer refrigerator is the best option if you want to maximize energy efficiency. Data released by the U.S. Department of Energy has shown that bottom freezer refrigerators consume 10-25% more energy than top freezer models.
3. Color and Finish: A traditional kitchen is a good fit for a top freezer refrigerator model that has a timeless appeal. A black model or an appliance with a stainless-steel finish can work in a more contemporary kitchen. If your kitchen design ethos is very modern, you will find that a bottom freezer refrigerator is the better option. There are other finish options, including black, stainless-steel, panel ready finishes, slate surfaces, and more to explore.

Which is Best?

This is a hard question to answer because every family has different needs that need to be satisfied. The budget and space constraints may be the determining factor. Both types of appliance work well, but the bottom freezer refrigerators cost more to purchase, and the energy bills are higher.

If you’re considering upgrading your refrigerator, you can explore the options with this collection of top and bottom freezer models or speak with a home appliance expert for a more personalized service.