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Chest freezers are generally cheaper, but they need a wide space versus a tall space. Because of their width, they also have to be tilted to get through a doorway. They have a large capacity, but items on the bottom require removal of items on the top for access. They are more energy efficient, and if you lose power a chest freezer will keep foods frozen longer if you keep the lid shut. Keep in mind that the hinges on a chest freezer will begin to wear with heavy usage. Also, all chest freezers have manual defrost, which can take up to 24 hours, and can get messy.
Upright freezers generally cost more because they have better organizational features such as drawers and shelves, which also means they hold less than chest models. They are designed to fit easily through a doorway. Some models are equipped with a flash-freeze option, which brings down the temperature inside the freezer quickly after being loaded with food. The less-expensive upright models have manual defrost; the more-expensive ones have the convenience of automatic defrost, though this actually increases the potential for freezer burn and requires more energy.
The two types of freezers come in four basic sizes: compact (5 cubic feet); small (6 to 9 cubic feet); medium (12 to 18 cubic feet); and large (18 to 25 cubic feet).
The average cost ranges from $150 to $700 for a chest freezer. Upright freezers cost from $150 to $700 for manual defrost and $300 to $800 for automatic defrost.
Also, don’t forget that you might want to have your new freezer delivered, which could add
anywhere from $40 to $100 to the total cost, depending on the proximity of the vendor to your delivery site. Many stores offer free delivery; make sure you ask before making your purchase. An extra fee might be charged to hook up an ice-maker feature. The good news is that because freezers are not an essential appliance, rebates and discounts abound.
There are several features you might want to consider when shopping for a freezer, though they will all add to the cost:
* A temperature alarm system that sounds if the temperature inside rises to an unsafe level.
* Magnetic door gaskets that provide an air-tight seal.
* A door closer feature that ensures the door or lid will close automatically.
* The EnergyStar label, but be aware that energy savings vary by model.
* An option that will keep the freezer operating efficiently in ambient temperatures between 32 and 100 degrees F., most important if you plan to keep the freezer in a garage or basement with unregulated temperature.
* Easy access controls in the interior or exterior of the freezer so that you do not have to move items to check or change the temperature.
* A child-lock device with a pop-out key that keeps the freezer door securely locked and ejects the key to prevent it being left in the lock.
* Length of warranty; most major appliance companies have a standard warranty of one year with an offer of two-year, three-year, and in some cases even four-year extended warranties.
Now you’re ready to buy your freezer. Let’s compare the top-five most-popular brands:
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