The Ultimate Guide to Buying a New Refrigerator: What to Consider

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a New Refrigerator: What to Consider

Written for PRS Appliances – Honolulu, HI

Buying a new refrigerator is one of the most important appliance decisions you can make for your home. It’s a long-term investment that affects your daily life, your food budget, and your energy bill. At PRS Appliances, we want to make sure you know exactly what to look for—whether you're replacing a broken unit or upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient model.

Here’s your ultimate guide:

🧊 1. Measure Your Space Accurately

Start with the basics: measure the height, width, and depth of the space where your refrigerator will go. Don’t forget to allow room for:

  • Door swing (especially with French door or side-by-side models)

  • Ventilation clearance (typically 1" on top and sides)

  • Walking space in front of the fridge when open

Tip: In Hawaii’s smaller kitchens and condos, compact and counter-depth models are often the best fit.

🍽️ 2. Choose the Right Style for Your Lifestyle

Refrigerators come in several configurations. Here’s what each one offers:

  • Top-Freezer: Classic and budget-friendly. Great for small households.

  • Bottom-Freezer: Puts fresh food at eye level. Ideal for families who cook often.

  • Side-by-Side: Narrow door swing; easy access to both fridge and freezer.

  • French Door: Modern, spacious, and great for entertaining.

  • Counter-Depth: Sleek, built-in look without custom cabinetry.

⚡ 3. Think About Energy Efficiency

Look for the ENERGY STAR® label to lower your monthly electric bill. Modern refrigerators are much more efficient than older ones—especially important in Hawaii, where electricity costs are higher than average.

Fact: A new ENERGY STAR fridge can save you up to $300 over its lifetime.

🧼 4. Focus on Features You’ll Actually Use

Don’t pay for features you won’t use. Consider these practical upgrades:

  • Adjustable shelves and gallon-sized door bins

  • Ice and water dispensers (check if you have a water line hookup)

  • Smart features for alerts and remote temperature control

  • Fingerprint-resistant finishes for low maintenance

  • Humidity-controlled crisper drawers to keep produce fresh

🏝️ 5. Buy Local and Save Big in Hawaii

Shipping a refrigerator to Hawaii from an online store can be costly and risky. Buying locally from PRS Appliances means:

  • No guesswork on shipping costs

  • You can see the unit in person before purchasing

  • Immediate delivery or pick-up from our 540 Lagoon Dr. showroom

  • Scratch-and-dent deals available for huge savings

🛒 Ready to Buy?

Whether you're after a compact fridge for your condo or a spacious French-door model for a large family, PRS Appliances has a wide selection of brand-name refrigerators at unbeatable local prices.

Visit PRS Appliances at 540 Lagoon Dr. and talk to our team today. We’ll help you find the perfect refrigerator for your home, budget, and lifestyle.

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