Fridge buying guide
Your fridge works hard every day, running 24/7, keeping your food fresh, and using (possibly) the most power out of all your home appliances. Choosing the right one improves your home life and may lower your electricity bill, while the wrong choice creates unnecessary hassle.
Whether you're buying your first fridge or upgrading to a better model, this guide will help you make the best choice. We’ll break down size, model types, energy usage, budget, and key features so you can find the perfect fit.
Types of refrigerators
Top mount
freezer
Also called a top freezer fridge, this design places the freezer above the fridge section. It remains one of the most common and affordable options in Singaporean homes, with lower upfront and running costs. Manufacturers offer a variety of sizes and finishes, making it a versatile choice. However, its lower fridge placement makes accessing items less convenient for some.
Bottom mount
freezer
Also known as a bottom freezer fridge, this model positions the freezer below the fridge section. It keeps the fridge at eye level, making everyday items easier to reach. Many models include spacious freezer drawers for better organisation. However, these fridges cost more to buy and run and appear less frequently in homes compared to top mount models.
Side-by-side
fridge
This design places the fridge and freezer sections next to each other, resembling a french door fridge but without a bottom freezer. Its narrow design makes it ideal for small kitchens. With equal access to both sections, it works well for those with mobility issues. The taller layout accommodates items like upright bottles but limits space for wider items such as serving platters.
French door
fridge
Featuring a bottom freezer drawer and a spacious double-door fridge, this model offers a modern, large-capacity design. It’s a popular choice for families and those needing extra storage. Many models include advanced features like smart modes and dispensers. The wide fridge space and deep freezer drawers provide ample storage, but these fridges come with a higher purchase.
Key features to consider
Size & capacity
Check external dimensions
The size of your fridge describes its external dimensions. What size you need depends mostly on the space you have available. If your kitchen has a small fridge nook, then you will need to carefully measure this space and choose a fridge size and type that will fit.
Factor gap spaces
You’ll also need to consider any spaces around the fridge, like countertops or doorways, that could block access. However, if your fridge is free standing, you are remodeling your kitchen, or just have no space constraints, then the size of your fridge is up to you.
Check manual guides
Whatever size you choose, just remember that your fridge will need some space on the sides, top, and back to function properly. Your fridge’s user manual will give you some guidance, but typically you’ll need at least 10 cm space on top and 5 cm on the side and back for proper function.
Understanding the capacity
The capacity of your fridge describes how much, in litres, the fridge can hold - your capacity will depend on the amount of food your household consumes on a regular basis.
Important tip!
In general, small households consisting of one or two people need a fridge with a capacity between 250L and 380L. Larger households, like small families of up to four people, will need between 350L and 530L. Homes with 5 or more residents may need more than 440L capacity, and so should consider a larger model or even multiple smaller models.
|
Household/family size |
Recommended volume (in litres) |
|---|---|
|
1–2 people |
250–380L |
|
3–4 people |
350–530L |
|
5 or more |
440L+ |
If you’re not sure what capacity your family needs, have a look at any models you are considering in person before you buy.
This will help you understand what a model’s capacity actually looks like.
Energy usage
Energy-saving features
Fridges can consume a lot of power, as they are one of the few appliances in your home that is running constantly. It’s worth considering what kind of energy-saving features a fridge might have, as these may save you money in the long run. Some of our fridges are equipped with AI Energy Mode that optimises compressor speed and operation to save up to 15% of energy usage.
Check the NEA label
All new fridges sold in Singapore include an Energy Rating Label (NEA label) - this details the estimated annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours per year. This is a great starting place to compare the energy efficiency of different types and models.
Size impacts energy efficiency
It’s also worth considering how size impacts efficiency, as larger units are typically more expensive to run. While having plenty of fridge space is luxurious, lots of unused space could be adding unnecessary cost to your power bill.
Cooling technology
Advanced cooling technology
A consistent flow of cold air throughout the fridge and freezer is the key cooling technology that all fridges have - but modern units now come with a range of advanced cooling tech to keep food and other goods chilled and fresh for as long as possible.
Samsung cooling technology
For example, Samsung uses technology like Twin Cooling Plus™, which utilises two separate evaporators to maintain humidity levels in the freezer and fridge separately, and All-Around Cooling, which monitors and adjusts air temperature levels to maintain an even temperature.
Other design features
These design features mean that each compartment of your freezer and fridge can maintain the best temperature and air quality possible.
Smart features
Check for smart features
Nowadays, smart features are available for almost every appliance you can buy, and fridges are no different. Many modern units include a wide range of features that make managing your food consumption, waste, and power bill easier.
SmartThings App
Most Samsung fridges, for example, are compatible with the SmartThings app, which allows you to control certain fridge functions, like temperature control and the ice maker, remotely from compatible smartphones.
AI Energy Mode
Samsung fridges are also equipped with features like AI Vision Inside™, which detects and monitors food items for freshness and recipe ideas, and AI Family Hub™, which can connect your fridge to other devices and appliances through your fridge’s door touchscreen.
Noise levels
Check the decibels
Because fridges run constantly, it’s important to consider the amount of noise they make. When choosing a model, check how loud in decibels it is – 40 decibels, which is roughly the noise level of a normal conversation, is a standard noise level for a fridge.
Fridge placement
If the appliance will be positioned close to areas where you don’t want to hear those running sounds, try a fridge with a lower decibel rating.
Budget considerations
Fridges come in a wide range of sizes and finishes, with different add-ons and modes - which means they also come at a wide range of prices. As mentioned before, some fridge setups like top mount freezers are more affordable, while French door or counter-depth models can be a lot more expensive by comparison.
Low price range
There are plenty of fridge models available for under $1,000, though these are usually basic with limited add-ons or special features. It can also be a challenge to find large capacity fridges in this price range.
Mid range
From $1,000 to $2,000, you can expect to find more type variety and larger capacities. These models will often come with modern features, add-ons, extra storage options, and even Wi-Fi and app compatibility.
Premium range
Over $2,000 is where you’ll find the best of the best when it comes to modern fridge models. These fridges may be customisable, feature more unique components and add ons, and may even require some kitchen remodeling.
When choosing a new fridge, it’s worth considering the long term and short term costs involved. Consider these factors before you buy:
Add-ons
Are there any additional functions you want your fridge to include, like an ice maker or in-door chilled water? You may be able to find a model in your budget that only has the add-ons you really want, rather than lots of unnecessary extra features.
Upfront costs
Are the higher ticket prices worth it for you? Often, the more you pay upfront, the higher quality and more sustainable the unit is. While some models are cheaper to buy initially, if they need replacing in a matter of years, it may not be worth those initial savings.
Energy consumption
A larger, more expensive fridge might be a great purchase initially, but larger models tend to use more power than smaller ones. If you are concerned about your energy bill, choosing the right capacity for your family and not opting for a larger model could be more cost effective in the long run.
Maintenance
Cleaning behind and under your fridge is vital for maintaining your appliance. Some problems can be avoided all together if the coils at the back of your fridge are kept free from dust and hair, which means cleaning under the unit should happen at least once a year.
Here are a few tips to keep your fridge running as eco-friendly as possible:
• Set the Right Temperature - Most fridges should only be set to 3℃, with freezers at -19℃
• Follow Spacing Guidelines - This allows the components of your fridge to access airflow and run more efficiently
• Clean Behind Your Fridge - Every 6-12 months, move and vacuum behind your appliance to avoid dust and hair clogging any components
• Keep the Door Closed - This keeps the temperature consistent, so avoid opening and leaving the door open when possible
• Avoid All Heat - Let food cool before storing in the fridge, and try to avoid placing your fridge in direct sunlight if possible.
Brand & warranty considerations
Built for long-lasting fridge reliability
Samsung fridges include innovative features, high-quality materials, and durable designs. When you invest in a Samsung fridge, you’re getting a reliable appliance built to last.
Digital Inverter Warranty
Most Samsung fridges come with a 24-month warranty on parts and labor, plus a 20-year Digital Inverter Warranty on select components.
Samsung technicians and support
For support, Samsung Support offers troubleshooting guides for common issues related to maintenance, fridge placement, and technology. Many problems can be resolved at home, but if needed, a Samsung technician can assist with repairs. Learn more about Samsung's repair services here.
Buying tips & mistakes to avoid
Conclusion
Find the right fridge
Finding the right fridge for your family can feel overwhelming, but focusing on key factors makes the decision easier. Consider your capacity needs, available space, budget, ideal model type, and desired features to narrow down your options.
Choose the fridge you need
No matter what, you should choose a fridge that meets your needs at the right size, capacity, and cost. Research is a vital step in the process, and learning more about your options starts right here.
Discover your ideal fridge type
You can learn more about which fridge type will work best for you, what size or capacity to choose, how energy ratings work for fridges or freezers, and more.
