Top 13+ mistakes to avoid when buying a new refrigerator

Forgetting to measure your space

One of the most important things to remember about refrigerators is that they're typically the largest home kitchen appliance you'll own. Before you even start looking at a new fridge, you're going to want to get the tape measure out.

The obvious starting point is measuring the area in which the refrigerator will be situated. You want to capture every dimension to ensure it will fit properly, particularly if it's going to be set between cabinets. It's also crucial to factor in enough clearance around the unit for ventilation. You should leave at least 2-3 inches of clearance at the back of the unit, around the sides, and at the top. If there's poor airflow, the fridge will run less efficiently and you increase the risk of the appliance overheating. Don't put that tape measure away just yet — you still have to get the fridge inside your house. Unless you want to end up with it squatting in your hallway — trust me, I've seen it happen — you'll want to size up the doorways leading to your kitchen too. If the fridge needs to go up or down stairs, assess those spaces too. Lastly, remember that if you ever relocate, that fridge may need to be removed. Getting something into place can be easier than getting it out again, so you should factor that in.

Ignoring noise levels

Most home refrigerators work by pumping a fluid called a refrigerant through a closed circuit. Without getting too deep into the science, the system needs to turn this liquid into a gas and then use pressure to convert it back into a liquid again. This process requires a piece of equipment called a compressor, and they can get pretty loud.

The noise level range for most modern fridges is around 32-47 decibels (dB). This means they can be as quiet as a whisper or as loud as a residential street. Unless a fridge is outdated, faulty, or overheating, it shouldn't be incredibly noisy but that doesn't mean it won't be annoying. Some people are more sensitive to noise than others, so while a 47dB fridge may barely register to some people, it could get on some folks' nerves. Some fridge types — like those you find in hotel rooms — don't use compressors and can be almost silent. The downside is that these are often too small for everyday use and struggle to keep items as cold as they need to be. So, if your kitchen is a place you want to remain calming and free of distractions, be sure to investigate a fridge's noise rating before you buy it. However, you should be aware that not every brand provides that information.

Choosing a color or finish that clashes with your kitchen's aesthetic

Although we tend to think of fridges as being plain old white, realistically, you can find them in a range of different hues and finishes. However, before you decide to go with something bold or unique, take a pause. Even if that option is perfectly suited to your needs it might not be the best choice.

First, you should be sure the color and design of the fridge complement the rest of your kitchen. For example, a shiny metallic fridge might not fit with a more traditional, rustic kitchen look. Conversely, a brightly colored retro fridge may look out of place in a more modern kitchen. Even if an atypical design is a great fit, don't forget that it might not work if you move somewhere with a different aesthetic and want to take your fridge with you. You can always redecorate your new place but a less flashy fridge will be a more versatile pick. The finish on the refrigerator is also important. If you've got young children, you might want to consider a material like stainless steel that's super easy to clean and won't stain or collect unsightly fingerprints.

Not considering resale value

Many people don't think of fridges as something to sell in the future but it's worth factoring the possibility into your purchasing decision. Maybe you need to move homes and your new place doesn't have enough space, or you end up with more room and want to upgrade to a bigger fridge. If you end up moving far away, it might not be practical or economical to take a whole refrigerator with you.

Whatever the reason to sell your fridge, it'll help if you've got one that hasn't depreciated too much in value. First, bear in mind that a durable fridge is going to remain in a good enough condition to demand a fair price. The resale value is also a great reason to opt for a relatively nondescript design, as you might find it harder to offload a unique model. Luxury fridge brands, like Sub-Zero and Thermador, typically hold their value well, if you can afford them in the first place. Brands that are well-known for long-term reliability also depreciate less over time — LG and Whirlpool have a particularly strong reputation in this area. Lastly, be sure to research second-hand fridge prices, as this will let you compare their going rate against new models and assess how well they hold their value.

Skipping over warranty details

Although it's not always worth buying additional insurance or an extended warranty for a new refrigerator, it's important to know what protection you have in place, just in case. Most well-known brands will include some kind of warranty that may include repairs, replacement, or both in the case of a faulty unit. However, not all warranties offer the same level of protection.

The good news is that, by law, you have the right to read any warranty before you make a purchase online or in person. So, make sure you go over the fine print. A standard warranty may be free but only provides cover for a short amount of time or limited services. You'll also need to know whether the warranty requires you to deal with the retailer or directly with the manufacturer. If a replacement or repair is offered, check whether you'll end up owing shipping costs, as fridges aren't cheap to deliver. Additionally, your fridge may be covered under your home contents insurance but you'll want to know how much it'll cost to make a claim. Plus, a claim might boost your insurance premiums when it's time to renew your coverage. Buying an extended warranty might not end up being the best option but you won't know unless you do your homework.