Choosing Chest Freezers
Chest freezers are ideal for those who like to buy frozen food and ingredients. These appliances are larger than regular freezers and refrigerators, so you should consider the best place to put them before buying.
For instance, this huge deep freezer from GE has plenty of storage space and includes convenient features like an exterior power light. It also has a wide temperature range as well as a power outage warranty.
Size
Size is an important consideration when deciding on a chest-freezer. You'll want to consider the amount of space you'll require and what kind of food you'll be storing in it. A best practice is to allocate 2.5 cubic feet of freezer space per person in your household but this could differ based on the amount of food you normally store. For instance, if you have a lot of meat or produce to store, you may prefer to buy a bigger freezer than this formula recommends.
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, whereas an average-sized freezer has between 7.1 and 14 cubic feet. Large freezers are best for households that need to store large amounts of food items. They have a storage capacity of between 14 and 25 cubic feet.
When selecting a chest-freezer energy efficiency is a key factor. Look for models that have an ENERGY STAR label to lower your energy bills and save you money. You should select one that is designed to operate in a cold climate, since you may be freezing food items in a garage or basement.
Certain chest freezers come with extra features like removable storage bins, as well as an interior light. These features can assist you in organizing your food items and help you find the items you need. Some have hinges built in that hold the door at a 45- or 75-degree angle. This can help you avoid straining and bending in order to access the items. This is a problem for people with injuries or mobility issues. These freezers are typically more expensive than their basic counterparts.
Energy efficiency
Choose a chest freezer that is energy efficient to lower your electric bill and impact on the environment. Energy efficiency depends on the size and type of freezer chosen. There are many factors that can influence power consumption, including whether the freezer is defrosted manually or self-defrosting and also its internal temperature. Chest freezers use less power than uprights, however if they are equipped with an ice maker, they can use even more.
They are available in a range of sizes and prices, and include a variety of additional features. They may include an alarm for temperature and a power outage guarantee and an inside light that makes it easier to find food. Some even come with a lock to stop thieves or children from opening the freezer. These extra features are worth the cost, especially if plan on using the freezer in a dark area or in areas near a salty coast.
While it can be difficult to choose the best chest freezer there are some important factors to be considered. The first is the capacity of storage which is determined by the quantity of items you wish to store and the space you have. Also, you should consider an appliance that has a high energy-efficiency rating and requires minimal maintenance.
Another factor to consider is the durability of the freezer, which will be contingent on where it is located and the frequency with which it is used. The best chest freezers are made to last and are a great addition to any kitchen. They can help you save money by making fewer trips to the grocery store and also by preparing meals in batches for the entire week. They can also be helpful in times of emergency.
Storage capacity
Chest freezers come in various sizes, so it's important to select the appropriate size to meet your needs. The best way to do this is to measure the space you intend to store your freezer and then evaluate the sizes of different models. You should also consider the freezer's external and internal dimensions as well as its capacity.
Chest freezers can be cheaper than upright freezers, and provide more storage space. They are more efficient in energy than upright freezers, and can reduce utility costs. They also keep foods frozen and safe for longer during a power outage than other kinds of freezers.
You should be aware that upright freezers are easier to maintain than chest freezers. They must be unplugged and cleaned frequently. Some upright freezers are self-defrosting. Chest freezers are also larger and heavier than upright freezers. This can make it difficult to move them, and could require special handling techniques.
Generally speaking, chest freezers are a good choice for large families or people who shop in large quantities. They offer plenty of storage space, and can help reduce the number of trips to the supermarket. It is possible to use a compact freezer for a small family however, you must consider the kind of food you'll be storing. A small freezer is sufficient if you are storing mainly pre-packaged foods. However, if you're storing large portions of meat or whole turkeys, then a larger freezer might be the better option. Also, if you're keeping the freezer in a garage or shed, be sure to keep it safe from wind and rain. Water can corrode mechanical parts in the freezer while dust and leaves clog up the air intake.
Safety features
It is also important to consider the safety features of chest freezers. The freezer must have a lid that shuts securely and hinges that lock to prevent accidental opening of the appliance. It should have a strong grip that is easy to hold. You should also search for a light inside the freezer, which will help you locate food items. An interior light will help you avoid wasting energy by keeping the freezer illuminated longer. It can also help keep food from spoiling if the freezer is left open for a long period of time.
Another important safety feature is a drainage hole that is easily accessible in the event of water or food leakage. Examine the gaskets and seals regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and free of any debris or damage. Damaged seals will hinder the freezer's ability to keep an even temperature. It may also require more power.
Chest freezers are an excellent option for families with children since they're safer than upright models. You should be cautious when placing the freezer in the bedroom of your child. A child can easily climb into the freezer to consume the contents. This could be hazardous and could cause illness or even death. Some freezers have locking options which are a good choice for homes with young children.
A chest freezer is an enduring investment. When choosing a model, you must also take into account the future needs of your family. You should also consider the space you have available for installation and the headroom needed to lift the lid. In addition, you should seek out a professional electrician to confirm the electrical requirements of the freezer.
Mobility
While chest freezers are ideal to store large quantities of food items, they can also be a challenge to move. The design is heavy and requires a significant amount of space. This includes space for the door to swing open, and enough headroom for it to stand up. They also have a specific electrical rating that can restrict the placement options. If you're seeking a freezer that is more freezers portable, you could look into an upright model.
Another thing to keep in mind when choosing the right chest freezer is its interior lighting. This is a feature that is often overlooked when shopping for a freezer, but it can make a huge difference in terms convenience and organization. You can quickly locate the items you require using an upright freezer that has an interior light instead of having to use flashlights to look through the freezer. This will also help you save energy and maintain the temperature by reducing the time you leave the lid open.
Some chest freezers include additional storage baskets or dividers that aid in organizing and managing the space inside the freezer. This can be a big benefit, especially if trying to store a variety of different foods. Some freezers include labels so that you can easily identify the contents of each storage container.
While most chest freezers are self-defrosting, some still require manual defrosting. This is a small cost to pay for the extra space these freezers provide. These freezers are also more energy efficient than upright models because they require less energy to open the lid. Additionally, they can remain frozen for up to three days after an outage.