It is amazing how sparse these three categories of refrigerators have become, all for different reasons. In 2007, there were new energy efficiency standards for all refrigerators. Most, with the exception of Frigidaire either curtailed or stopped manufacturing top mounts due to these more rigid standards.
In the bottom mount and especially the side-by-side category, french doors have become more popular. French doors offer split refrigerator doors of a side-by-side which is more convenient for islands as well as being more attractive. More refrigerator space and more lateral storage are the other attributes versus a side-by-side.
Click here for the best French door refrigerators.
Still, there are very good reasons to buy a top mount, bottom mount or side-by-side refrigerator.
The Best Top Mounts (freezer on the Top)
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Frigidaire NFTR18X4LW |
Frigidaire FGHT2144KF |
This segment is dominated by Frigidaire almost exclusively.
- Frigidaire NFTR18X4LW $499: Nothing much has changed. An 18 cu. ft. refrigerator is adequate for a family of four. This refrigerator was $599 when I started in 1986.
- Frigidaire FGHT2144KF: 21 cu. ft. refrigerators have changed over the years to be slimmer and taller versus wider, so now this refrigerator can fit with in a 30 inch cabinet. This is the largest refrigerator to fit within this standard cabinet.
The Best Bottom Mounts (freezer on the bottom)
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Maytag MBF1958XES |
Maytag MBF2258WES |
Amana, Whirlpool, Maytag and KitchenAid are manufactured in the same facility. I've always advised to pick the least expensive logo or package opportunity if warranted. This month it's Maytag.
- Maytag MBF1958XES $999: 19 cubic foot is still the best size and fits within a 30 inch cabinet.
- Maytag MBF2258WES: Same version in a 32.5 inch width.
Side-by-Side Refrigerators
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GE GSH25JSCSS |
Frigidaire FGHC2342LF |
Bosch B22CS30SNS |
Regular Depth
- GE GSH25JSCSS $1049 After Rebate: Most 25 cu. ft. refrigerators in stainless cost between $900 and $1200. I like the GE for aesthetics and reliability.
Counter Depth (body of the refrigerator does not protrude from the cabinet)
- Frigidaire FGHC2342LF $1349 after rebate: Frigidaire is a good value manufacturer, and $1349 is the least expensive full-size counter depth refrigerator in the market.
- Bosch B22CS30SNS $2049 After Rebate: The beauty of this Bosch is not the product itself, but the rebates and package opportunities available with purchase of other Bosch products.
For more information about refrigerators download the Yale Refrigerator Buying Guide. This guide is packed with dimensions, features and differences between the six major types of refrigerators.
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A Note About Pricing
Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
