What to Consider When Buying a Refrigerator.

Looking for a new refrigerator, but are uncertain where to begin? You may feel overwhelmed while buying a new refrigerator due to the wide variety of options available. From refrigerator capacity, design, various widths, heights, finishes, handle types, door configurations and features, there can be a lot of choices when it comes to selecting your new refrigerator. Not sure how to choose a refrigerator? We at Bosch are here to help you navigate your shopping experience. Here is a list of 9 questions to ask yourself as you prepare to find the right refrigerator to match your lifestyle needs and design aesthetic. If you want to select a model with even less guesswork, use our Fridge Finder Tool which walks you through our simple questionnaire and pairs you with the best model for you.

Download Refrigerator Buying Guide PDF here

From size and color, to installation type and door configuration, use our fridge finder tool so you can feel confident in making the right decision.

Another important element to consider when buying a refrigerator is design and style. Do you want a freestanding fridge or a built-in fridge? Each style has its advantages:

• Freestanding: Freestanding refrigerators simply slide into your kitchen cutout for easy installation and greater flexibility.
• Built-in: Ideal if you want your kitchen to have a clean, seamless look. Built-in fridges are installed completely flush with your cabinetry and can also have a custom panel to blend in with your cabinets if you desire.

The first decision to make when buying a new refrigerator: Fridge Size. This can vary depending on if you are replacing an old refrigerator within existing cabinetry that you don’t want to change, vs. if you are planning a full kitchen remodel or new build, where you have a clean slate to design from scratch. Both fridge sizes have unique advantages:

• When measuring for a refrigerator, make sure to measure the cutout size, and not just the size of your old refrigerator.
• Counter depth: lines up with your countertops and does not protrude past them.
• Standard depth: offers more capacity and extends past your countertops.

Pro tip: Here are some general guidelines on dimensions for freestanding refrigerators:

• We offer various heights. Some models are 69 inches and others are taller, at 72 inches.
• If you have a small kitchen and are looking to for compact appliances, we also offer 24 inch wide freestanding refrigerators that are functional and stylish. Shop 24" compact fridges.

Depending on your taste, you may prefer a certain door style.

• French Door Bottom Mount: Double fridge doors on top, freezer on bottom. Shop French Door Refrigerators now
• Side by Side: Fridge on the right and freezer on the left. Shop Side by Side Refrigerators now
• Bottom Freezer: Single fridge door on top, freezer on bottom. Shop Bottom Freezer Refrigerators now

Most households prefer an external ice and water dispenser, for the convenience of filling your glass with ease.

Our QuickIce Pro System™ offers freshly filtered ice, replenished fast. With a refrigerator that makes up to 12 lbs. of ice per day*, for up to 40 glasses,** say farewell to frequent ice runs to the store.

If you prefer a more sleek look, you can opt for an internal water dispenser in your refrigerator.

_{*Based on single ice maker production rates during a 24 hour period, measured per IEC standards, when the ice bin was removed. Results may vary depending on operating conditions. **Based on filling 8 oz glasses.}*

How can I consider refrigerator capacity? Standard depth fridges offer more capacity than counter depth models. However, if you want a more sleek look and prefer a counter depth fridge without sacrificing storage, there are many storage features that help you maximize your storage.

Pro tip: Some fridge models are more suitable for certain household sizes. For instance, a French door or side-by-side fridge is perfect for a family with two or more children that needs more refrigerator capacity. Meanwhile, a small 24 inch fridge with a bottom freezer compartment works well for households with one to three people or in limited-space kitchens.

Exterior finish: From timeless stainless steel to our bold black stainless steel, choose the finish that makes the right statement in your kitchen.

• Stainless steel: Classic, traditional and integrates with any kitchen design
• Black Stainless Steel: bold and functional, Bosch black stainless steel helps guard against scratches and fingerprints. Shop now
• Custom Panel: Bosch custom panel ready refrigerators install fully flush, so your kitchen stands out for all the right reasons. A completely flush installation ensures your kitchen will have clean lines and a timeless style.

The new Bosch Refreshment Center™ refrigerator features an easy-to-view, easy-to-reach glass display drawer. Pre-programmed settings take the guesswork out of finding the optimal temperature from craft beer and wines, to champagne, juice, and other beverages.

Your fridge will be running 24/7 so if energy consumption is important to you, select from one of our many models that are ENERGY STAR® qualified

Think about your typical trip to the grocery store. What perishables do you usually buy? The items in your bag influence the interior layout and shelving options you'll want in a fridge.

• Fruits and vegetables: Opt for a large produce storage compartment to keep your favorites fresher for longer. Learn more.
• Fresh fish and meat: A colder chiller drawer is the perfect spot for meat and fish.
• Milk: Many of our fridges offer wide gallon door bins for your milk.
• Small items and bottles: For space-saving storage of bottles, jars, and other small items, opt for a model that offers a FlexBar® accessory.

One last consideration when buying a refrigerator is innovation. The latest fridges on the market can do much more than just cool food and beverages. While you don't necessarily need one with all the bells and whistles, it's worth exploring the latest innovations, then deciding which ones would improve daily life.

Here are some leading fridge innovations to consider:

• The revolutionary FarmFresh System® combines four technologies designed to keep food fresher longer. Shop FarmFresh® refrigerators

• A smart fridge with Home Connect – control and manage your fridge via your smartphone. No matter where you are. Shop Home Connect refrigerators

_{*As compared to a Bosch refrigerator without FarmFresh System®. Results may vary among different foods.}