Imagine opening your refrigerator and finding everything perfectly organized, from crisp vegetables to your favorite ice cream, all kept at the ideal temperature. Sounds amazing, right? But when it comes to choosing a column refrigerator, that dream can quickly turn into a bit of a puzzle. You might be wondering if they are worth it, or how they even work. It’s a big decision, and with so many features and styles out there, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed.
Picking the right column refrigerator is more than just picking a fridge; it’s about finding a smart way to store your food that also looks great in your kitchen. These refrigerators offer fantastic flexibility, allowing you to customize your cooling spaces. But knowing which combination of refrigerator and freezer columns will best suit your family’s needs can be tricky. You want something that keeps food fresh longer, saves energy, and fits your lifestyle.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about column refrigerators. We’ll explore their benefits, what makes them different, and how to choose the perfect setup for your home. Get ready to learn how to make your kitchen smarter and your food last longer!
Our Top 5 Column Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Column Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. frigidaireusa PROFESSIONAL Stainless Steel Refrigerator Freezer Combo & Trim FPRU19F8WF FPFU19F8WF TRMKTEZ2LV79
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Frigidaire Professional Stainless Steel Refrigerator Freezer Combo. This sleek unit offers a massive 37.2 cubic feet of total storage. You get a 33-inch freezer column with an internal ice maker. You also get a 33-inch refrigerator column with an internal water dispenser. The included 79-inch louvered trim kit gives it a built-in look. This combo is perfect for families who need lots of space and cool features.
What We Like:
- Huge storage capacity: 18.6 cu. ft. in the freezer and 18.6 cu. ft. in the refrigerator means you can fit all your groceries.
- Convenient ice maker: The internal ice maker keeps your drinks cold without taking up precious freezer space.
- Refreshing water dispenser: Enjoy chilled water right from your refrigerator door.
- Stylish design: The stainless steel finish and included trim kit make your kitchen look professional and modern.
- SpaceWise organization: The Frigidaire’s internal layout helps you keep everything tidy and easy to find.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires pairing kit: You need to buy the Twins Pairing Kit separately for a side-by-side installation, which is an extra cost.
- Water filter replacement: Like most refrigerators with water dispensers, you’ll need to buy and replace water filters periodically.
This Frigidaire Professional Refrigerator Freezer Combo provides ample space and premium features. It’s a fantastic investment for a modern, functional kitchen.
2. Frigidaire Professional 19 cu. ft. Single Door Freezerless Refrigerator in Stainless Steel FPRU19F8WF
Rating: 8.9/10
The Frigidaire Professional 19 cu. ft. Single Door Freezerless Refrigerator in Stainless Steel (FPRU19F8WF) offers a sleek and spacious solution for keeping your food perfectly chilled. This 33-inch refrigerator column boasts a generous 18.6 cubic feet of storage. You can install it on its own or pair it with a matching freezer column for a complete, custom kitchen look. Its modern stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance to any home.
What We Like:
- Large 18.6 cu. ft. capacity provides plenty of room for groceries.
- Stylish stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
- Can be installed as a stand-alone unit or with a matching freezer.
- Internal Dual Bin Ice Maker creates pyramid-shaped ice cubes.
- CrispSeal Crispers keep fruits and vegetables fresh with automatic humidity control.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a freezerless unit, it requires a separate freezer for frozen goods.
- The ice maker, while unique, might not be preferred by everyone.
This refrigerator is a fantastic option for those who want a dedicated space for fresh food and appreciate smart storage features. It’s a great addition to a modern kitchen, offering both style and functionality.
3. Electrolux EI33AR80WS 19 Cu. Ft. 33 inch Counter-Depth Stainless Steel Refrigerator
Rating: 9.2/10
The Electrolux EI33AR80WS 19 Cu. Ft. 33 inch Counter-Depth Stainless Steel Refrigerator offers a sleek look and smart features for your kitchen. Its counter-depth design means it sits flush with your cabinets, giving your kitchen a custom built-in feel. This refrigerator is a great option for families who want a stylish and functional appliance.
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What We Like:
- The 19 cu. ft. capacity holds a good amount of food for a family.
- Adjustable glass shelves let you customize the interior space for different-sized items.
- The door alarm alerts you if the refrigerator door is left open, saving energy and keeping food fresh.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to wipe clean.
- Its counter-depth design creates a streamlined look in your kitchen.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 19 cu. ft. capacity a bit small for very large families or those who buy in bulk.
- While the stainless steel is attractive, it can show fingerprints, requiring regular cleaning.
This Electrolux refrigerator is a solid choice for those seeking both style and practical storage. It brings a touch of modern elegance to any kitchen.
4. SMETA Upright Freezer Convertible Refrigerator
Rating: 8.7/10
Looking for a large appliance that can do it all? The SMETA Upright Freezer Convertible Refrigerator is a fantastic option. It’s an 18 cubic foot, full-size unit that can switch between being a freezer and a refrigerator. This means you can use it for extra freezer space when you need it, or turn it into a fridge for parties or extra produce storage. It’s also garage-ready, so you can place it almost anywhere in your home. Plus, it’s frost-free, so you won’t have to deal with messy defrosting.
What We Like:
- Super flexible: You can easily switch between freezer and fridge modes using the control panel. The freezer can get as cold as -11°F, and the fridge can stay between 35°F and 46°F.
- Lots of space: It offers a huge 18 cubic feet of storage, perfect for stocking up on meats, ice cream, or bulk groceries.
- Looks great and works well: The tempered glass shelves are not only beautiful but also sturdy. The air-cooling system keeps everything evenly cold and odor-free.
- Smart features: It has a quick freeze mode, an alert if the door is left open, and a control panel that locks automatically to prevent accidents.
- Easy to move: Adjustable legs and wheels make it simple to position and move.
- Good customer support: SMETA offers a 12-month after-sales service and has many models to choose from.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited temperature range for fridge mode: While it gets cold enough for most items, the upper limit of 46°F might be a bit too warm for some sensitive refrigerated goods.
- Door rack placement: While the door rack is a nice addition, its placement might limit the types of items you can store there.
This SMETA upright appliance offers a lot of versatility and storage for its price. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing extra cooling capacity with a touch of modern convenience.
5. Sharp SJB1255GS Bottom-Freezer Counter-Depth Refrigerator
Rating: 9.4/10
The Sharp SJB1255GS Bottom-Freezer Counter-Depth Refrigerator is a smart choice for smaller kitchens. This 24-inch wide, 11.5 cubic foot refrigerator offers a sleek, counter-depth design that saves space. It’s packed with features to keep your food fresh and organized.
What We Like:
- The freezer is surprisingly roomy, offering 4.2 cubic feet to hold all your frozen treats.
- Multi Air Flow technology makes sure cold air reaches every corner, keeping everything at the right temperature.
- Vacation Mode is a handy feature that lets you save energy by turning off the fridge while keeping the freezer running.
- It comes with a removable wine rack, which is great for chilling or showing off your favorite bottles.
- The Fresh Converter Drawer is versatile; use it as a chiller for meats or as a crisper for your fruits and veggies.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 11.5 cubic foot capacity might be too small for larger families or those who buy groceries in bulk.
- While the counter-depth design is space-saving, it means less storage space compared to standard-depth models.
This Sharp refrigerator is a fantastic option for apartments or smaller homes where space is a concern. Its smart features and efficient design make it a practical addition to any kitchen.
Choosing Your Perfect Column Refrigerator: A Buyer’s Guide
What is a Column Refrigerator?
A column refrigerator is a type of appliance that is designed to be placed side-by-side with a matching freezer column. This gives you a lot of flexibility to create a custom refrigeration setup. You can choose to have just a refrigerator, just a freezer, or combine them to fit your needs. They are often sleek and built-in, giving kitchens a modern look.
Key Features to Look For
Temperature Control
Precise temperature control is very important. Look for refrigerators with digital displays and separate controls for the fridge and freezer sections. This helps keep your food fresh for longer.
Adjustable Shelving and Door Bins
Being able to move shelves and bins makes a big difference. You can fit taller items like milk jugs or wine bottles easily. This flexibility helps you organize your food better.
Humidity-Controlled Crispers
These drawers help keep fruits and vegetables fresh. They have special controls to manage moisture levels. Your produce will stay crisp and tasty.
Energy Efficiency
Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means the refrigerator uses less electricity. It’s good for your wallet and the environment.
Lighting
Bright LED lighting is a plus. It makes it easy to see everything inside, even in the back. No more digging around for that hidden jar of pickles!
Smart Features
Some column refrigerators have smart technology. You can control temperatures or get alerts from your phone. This can be very convenient.
Important Materials
Stainless Steel
Most high-quality column refrigerators use stainless steel. It’s durable and looks great in any kitchen. It’s also easy to clean, which is a big help.
Glass Shelving
Tempered glass shelves are common. They are strong and can hold a lot of weight. They are also easy to wipe down.
Plastic Components
The interior drawers and bins are usually made of strong plastic. Look for BPA-free plastics for your food’s safety.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built refrigerator will last longer. Check for sturdy doors and smooth-moving drawers. Good seals on the doors are also important. They keep cold air in and warm air out.
Noise Level
Some refrigerators can be noisy. Look for models that are known to be quiet. This is especially important if your kitchen is near living areas.
Brand Reputation
Reputable brands often use better materials and have better customer service. Reading reviews from other buyers can help you choose a reliable brand.
Installation
Proper installation is key. If the refrigerator isn’t installed correctly, it might not work as well. This can lead to problems down the road.
User Experience and Use Cases
For Large Families
Column refrigerators are great for families who need a lot of storage. You can combine a large refrigerator with a large freezer. This means less frequent grocery trips.
For Home Entertainers
If you love to host parties, these units are perfect. You can keep drinks cold in one section and snacks fresh in another. They offer a lot of space for entertaining.
For Custom Kitchen Designs
Column refrigerators are ideal for modern, built-in kitchens. They give a clean, seamless look. You can customize the layout to fit your kitchen perfectly.
For Specific Food Storage Needs
Some people need specialized storage. You might want a dedicated wine fridge or a meat-locker freezer. Column units let you create these custom setups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I buy just one column refrigerator and not a freezer?
A: Yes, you can buy just a refrigerator column. Many people choose to do this if they already have a separate freezer.
Q: Are column refrigerators more expensive than regular refrigerators?
A: They can be more expensive, especially if you buy both a refrigerator and a freezer column. However, they offer more flexibility and storage.
Q: How much space do I need for a column refrigerator?
A: You need to account for the width of both the refrigerator and freezer columns, plus any necessary space for ventilation and door opening.
Q: Are column refrigerators difficult to install?
A: It’s best to have them professionally installed. They are often heavy and need to be connected to water lines for ice makers.
Q: What is the warranty usually like for column refrigerators?
A: Warranties vary by brand. Most offer a one-year warranty on parts and labor, and longer warranties on sealed systems like the compressor.
Q: How do I clean the inside of a column refrigerator?
A: Unplug the unit. Remove shelves and drawers. Wash them with mild soap and water. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth. Dry everything before putting it back.
Q: Can I put a column refrigerator next to an oven?
A: It’s generally not recommended to place a refrigerator directly next to a heat-producing appliance like an oven. The heat can make the refrigerator work harder and use more energy.
Q: Do column refrigerators come in different colors?
A: While stainless steel is the most common, some brands offer them in black stainless steel or panel-ready options so you can match your cabinetry.
Q: What happens if one column unit breaks down?
A: If one unit breaks, the other can still function. This is a benefit of the column design. You won’t lose all your refrigerated or frozen food.
Q: Are column refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many modern column refrigerators are very energy efficient, especially those with ENERGY STAR certification. They are designed to be efficient even when used as a pair.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.