Can I Buy A Refrigerator Without A Freezer

Frustrated with cramped freezer space? You *can* buy refrigerators without freezers, offering expanded fresh food storage for specific needs.

This article breaks down your options, the pros and cons, and where to find these freezer-less fridges amidst growing consumer demand.

The Rise of Freezer-Less Refrigeration

Demand for freezerless refrigerators is surging, particularly in households prioritizing fresh produce and bulk refrigerated items. They cater to consumers with supplemental freezers or those focused solely on fresh food storage.

According to a recent survey by Consumer Reports, 15% of households expressed interest in a refrigerator without a freezer, citing space optimization as the primary motivator.

Who Needs a Freezer-less Fridge?

These units are ideal for avid gardeners, bulk purchasers of fresh goods, and individuals or families with separate, often larger, freezer units.

Restaurants and catering businesses also frequently use freezerless refrigerators for optimal ingredient management and accessibility. Their need to keep food fresh is high, rather than frozen.

Where to Find Them: Options and Availability

Major appliance retailers like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Best Buy carry a limited selection of freezerless refrigerators.

Online marketplaces like Amazon offer a wider range of models, including specialty brands like Summit Appliance and Avanti.

Popular Models and Features

Summit Appliance stands out with its extensive line of commercial-grade, freezerless refrigerators, often favored by smaller restaurants.

Avanti offers more compact, budget-friendly options suitable for apartments or secondary refrigerators. These are popular in smaller apartments in cities.

The Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options

The most significant advantage is increased refrigerator capacity, often offering 20-30% more fresh food storage compared to standard models.

However, the primary drawback is the lack of freezer space, requiring alternative freezing solutions or a change in purchasing habits.

Freezerless refrigerators can also be more energy-efficient than models with freezers, but this varies by brand and model.

Cost Considerations

Prices for freezerless refrigerators generally range from $600 to $2000, depending on size, features, and brand.

While some entry-level models are comparable in price to standard refrigerators, high-end, commercial-grade units can be significantly more expensive.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Look for models with the Energy Star certification to ensure optimal energy consumption and lower utility bills. The Energy Star program helps rate energy efficiency.

Consider the refrigerant used in the refrigerator, opting for models with environmentally friendly alternatives like R600a.