Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
Space- and energy-efficiency are the hallmarks of the latest models.
Today’s refrigerators come with a host of features that make them more efficient and save on energy consumption. Some of these features are:
* Adjustable door shelves that can be sized precisely for, say, two half-gallon containers of milk or juice.
* Shelves made from tempered glass with a lip to prevent spills from spreading to other areas of the refrigerator.
* Legs that can be adjusted so the unit sits perfectly level.
* Pull-out shelves, foldable shelves, and elevator shelves (which roll up and down) to make organizing items simpler.
* Special racks specifically for storing 12-oz. cans and wine bottles.
* Slide-out baskets and shelves in the freezer for easy access.
* Freezer space to store large items such as a turkey.
* Compartments with see-through doors and some models with even see-through refrigerator doors.
* Outdoor Ice and water dispenser with a water filter.
* A so-called refreshment center door that leads to items that are accessed frequently, eliminating the need to open the main door.
* Different temperature controls for different areas such as the deli drawer and vegetable crisper.
Refrigerators with the freezer on top are called top-mount. These are ideal for frozen-food lovers who access the freezer frequently.
Bottom-mount models reduce bending to access refrigerator contents, while the freezer is equipped with baskets that roll out.
Adjustable, deep shelves, wire freezer baskets, and see-through compartment drawers are highlights of these side-by-side (above) and top-mount (at right) refrigerator models.
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Featured photo:
Kitchenaid (Top photos), Maytag (Bottom photos)
