A fridge is more than just an appliance — it’s part of your daily routine. Throughout the year, people rely on refrigerators to store beverages and food as part of their daily lives. So, faced with a wide variety of models, how do you choose the refrigerator that best suits your needs or those of your household? Here’s what you should know before buying a fridge, featuring our Kismile 24 Inch Double Drawer Beverage Fridge F58145, a stylish and functional undercounter refrigerator.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

l Measure Before You Buy

Carefully measure the length, width, and height dimensions of the under-counter space reserved for your indoor or outdoor kitchen, including the door clearance, to ensure the refrigerator fits perfectly.

l Pick the Right Style for Your Needs

Choose a refrigerator style based on usage habits, such as single-door, double-door, or double drawer refrigerator, and consider extra features you’ll actually use.

l Think Long-Term with Energy Efficiency

The purchase cost of an energy-efficient refrigerator is higher than that of a standard energy-consuming model, but it effectively reduces utility expenses and is also more environmentally friendly.

Beyond that, several factors must be considered when selecting a new refrigerator, including configuration, capacity, features, and appearance. If you're also struggling to choose the most suitable refrigerator due to these multifaceted considerations, please refer to the refrigerator purchasing recommendations outlined in the following steps.

1. Size and Capacity

Measure Your Space: As mentioned earlier, refrigerator dimensions are particularly crucial. Therefore, it is essential to accurately measure the designated installation space, taking into account all three dimensions—length, width, and height—while ensuring sufficient clearance for the refrigerator door to open fully and maintain proper ventilation. Compared with single-door or double-door models, a drawer refrigerator is often more space-saving and easier to access, making it a time- and effort-saving choice for under-counter installation.

Capacity Needs: 
Select capacity based on household size and food storage habits. Most customers prefer 24-cubic-foot refrigerators, which adequately meet daily food storage needs for families. For those who frequently entertain guests or operate small businesses, larger capacity refrigerators are recommended.

2. Type of Fridge

Not all refrigerators are created equal. While their primary function is to keep food cold, different models significantly impact daily convenience. Therefore, when selecting a refrigerator model, the following two points should be considered first:

l Consider your needs: Do you prefer a top-freezer, bottom-freezer, side-by-side, or French door fridge?

l Think about features: Would you use a built-in water or ice dispenser?

This way, you can choose a style that fits your daily habits and complements your kitchen layout.

3. Energy Efficiency

Energy Star Rating: Opt for refrigerators with an Energy Star rating whenever possible, as models meeting energy efficiency standards not only help reduce utility bills but also contribute to environmental sustainability.

Annual Energy Consumption: Check the refrigerator's annual energy consumption; a lower number indicates higher energy usage.

Take the Kismile 24-inch undercounter refrigerator and freezer as an example. This appliance has obtained ETL, DOE, and CEC certifications, ensuring high energy efficiency, eco-friendliness, and sufficient safety—making it completely reliable for use.

4. Features and Functions

Before purchasing a refrigerator, consider the features you'll use most frequently. Here are some refrigerator features worth paying attention to:

l Ice and water dispensers.

l Professional storage design: Different foods and beverages can easily absorb each other's odors when stored together. Therefore, prioritize beverage refrigerators with compartmentalized features when purchasing. This allows you to conveniently store beverages like beer, soda, and juice while also keeping wine or other foods separate.

l Performance Features: Consumers often prefer refrigerators with separate temperature zones, ideally capable of meeting the requirements for both fresh and frozen foods simultaneously.

5. Design and Finish

We recommend prioritizing models with stainless steel, black, or white finishes, as well as customizable panels, to achieve seamless integration with your cabinetry. Additionally, under-counter refrigerators can significantly save space in your home while enhancing aesthetics. This 24-inch beverage refrigerator features an all-stainless steel design and is protected during shipping with a white outer wrap to prevent damage to its exterior.

6. Brand and Reliability

l Research Brands: Opt for reputable brands known for reliability and excellent customer service. Read user reviews and consider others' experiences.

l Warranty Terms: Carefully review the refrigerator's warranty coverage. A longer warranty period offers peace of mind and effectively mitigates potential failure risks.

Kismile enjoys extensive brand influence, being highly popular both on Amazon and in stores. It is particularly well-received for its one-year free warranty at Kismile stores, providing top-tier assurance for both after-sales service and logistics.

7. Budget

Set a Budget: The most important step before purchasing is to determine your budget for the refrigerator. Prices vary significantly across different platforms and models, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Consider Total Cost of Ownership: Generally speaking, refrigerators that are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly tend to be priced higher. Therefore, before making a purchase, it's important to factor in their potential electricity savings while also evaluating additional features that could save you time and effort.

8. Noise Level

Quiet Operation: If your kitchen is near living or sleeping areas, consider a fridge with a quiet operation feature. Check product reviews or specifications for noise levels.

Installation Tips for Undercounter Refrigerators

Proper installation is key to ensuring your beverage fridge undercounter performs efficiently and lasts for years. Whether you’re planning a built-in setup or prefer a freestanding style, here are a few essential tips to follow:

1. Select an Appropriate Location

Place the refrigerator in a convenient spot away from extreme heat or cold. Avoid positioning it near stoves, heating appliances, or areas exposed to direct sunlight. These heat sources can cause the compressor to work excessively hard, shortening the appliance's lifespan.

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation

The front grille of the refrigerator must remain completely unobstructed at all times—this ensures proper heat dissipation.

For built-in installations, follow the manufacturer's clearance diagrams to ensure adequate airflow.

For freestanding units, leave at least 2 inches (5 cm) of space between the sides, back, and walls.

Proper ventilation prevents overheating and ensures efficient operation of the cooling system.

3. Allow Sufficient Door Swing Space

Position the refrigerator so the door opens to approximately 160° without hitting nearby walls or cabinets when fully extended.

4. Level Floor Placement

Install the refrigerator on a solid, level surface capable of supporting its full weight when fully loaded. Avoid placement on carpets or uneven surfaces.

Use adjustable front feet if necessary to level the unit, ensuring stable operation and door alignment.

5. Power and Safety

Connect the refrigerator to a 115V/60Hz grounded power outlet. Do not use extension cords or power strips. Direct grounding ensures safety and optimal appliance performance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a refrigerator is a major decision, but focusing on the above factors will help you find the perfect refrigerator for yourself or your family. Should you encounter any issues with your refrigerator or any other product purchased from Kismile stores, our after-sales customer service team is always ready to assist you in resolving any product malfunctions.

Kismile 24 inch undercounter refrigerator and freezer