Refrigerators, like other machines and technologies, have come a long way. Before, maybe all you needed was an appliance that can keep your food chilled and fresh. Today, fridges offer a lot of features that give them a whole new level of capability. It’s so easy to feel overwhelmed especially if a salesman presents you with all of their amazing functions. As the largest aircon and appliance services provider in the Philippines, we at Teko.ph are here to guide you on your refrigerator purchase:
1. Compressor
A refrigerator’s “heart” is the compressor. It distributes the refrigerant in the system, increases pressure in the warm circuit, and heats the refrigerant. It’s similar to pumping air into a bicycle tube. When you compress the air, you can feel a heat increase in the pump.
Smaller units are often equipped with general compressors. Medium to large units come with inverter compressors.
A. General Compressors
These compressors begin at high speed and maintain that level while operating. Even if no cooling has been lost, an aircon will remain working until the perfect chill is met. Refrigerators with this type of compressor require a lot more electricity.
B. Inverter Compressors
Inverter compressors, on the other hand, are adaptive by nature. Their speed differs based on how much cooling the machine requires. They start off slowly and then increase their pace as needed. Units with inverter compressors are more energy-efficient but are more expensive.
2. Energy Efficiency
This is, without a doubt, one of the most crucial factors to consider. If you plan to use this appliance in the long run, it shouldn’t make your electricity bill shoot up monthly.
That large number you see in the middle of the label is the Energy Efficiency Factor (EEF.) That indicates how well the fridge uses its electricity to chill its rated storage volume. The higher the EEF value, the more energy-efficient the refrigerator is. You can use this number as an easy way to compare identical fridge models when in an appliance store.
Also in this yellow guide label are storage capacity, minimum energy performance standard, and the method of estimating the running cost.
How to Calculate a Model’s Operating Cost
The EEF number will tell you which model is more efficient, but it won’t tell you how much it will cost to run that. Fortunately, we can use the energy guide to estimate a model’s operating costs. The formula is as follows:
Operating Cost per 24 hours = Energy Consumption (kWh/24h) x Energy Cost (Pesos/kWh)
You may check our Consumption Tool so you can easily estimate your fridge’s power costs.
3. Manufacturer’s Warranty
Most refrigerators have a limited warranty term. It’s a good idea to choose a brand that provides an additional, extended warranty on the appliance, even if it’s not free. Don’t take it for granted; ask your dealer about it. Also, consider the accessibility of parts for the brand you’re choosing. It might be expensive and difficult to find components for a foreign brand.
Conclusion
Purchasing a new refrigerator shouldn’t be a daunting task! Just take your time and list your requirements clearly before heading to a store. Aside from capacity, size, finish, and color (if it matters to you,) don’t forget to take note of the three things mentioned. For a more detailed blog on refrigerators, check out our Ultimate Guide here!
