The Coldest Refrigerators

Compressor

• A refrigerator maintains its crisp temperature by flowing a vapor substance known as tetrafluoroethane, or HFC, through a compressor and then through a series of tubes. The coldest refrigerators are those with high quality compressors. Traditionally, a compressor moves its interior pistons in a circular motion; however, the coldest refrigerators utilize linear compressors, which move the pistons in a linear fashion. This horizontal motion hinders heat transfer from the compressor and pistons to the refrigerator, thus keeping the refrigerator cold. Refrigerators built from 2010 and on typically feature a linear compressor. Compressor design information is readily available on the specification sheet of any refrigerator model.

Insulation

• As in your home, insulation plays a direct role in refrigerator temperature management. The best refrigerator insulations are fiberglass or polyfoam. When locating the coldest refrigerator, make sure the insulation is located in all four walls of the refrigerator. To determine this, take your hand and knock on the interior walls. If the sound is hollow, there is no insulation, but if the sound is muted there is insulation present. Some manufacturers place insulation only between interior parts, such as between the compressor and coils; however, the coldest refrigerators feature insulation throughout the entire refrigerator. Review the specification sheet of any refrigerator to determine the amount and type of insulation used.

Doors

• Every time you open your refrigerator door, you alter the temperature by allowing chilled air the opportunity to escape. The coldest refrigerators provide a solid seal between the frame and the actual door. Side-by-side and French door refrigerators offer the least secure door seal, while top mount and bottom mount refrigerators with a single door offer a higher quality seal. Before buying a refrigerator, make sure the refrigerator offers a door alarm to alert you if the door is left ajar.

Dual-Cooling

• Dual-cooling systems utilize two compressors, two evaporating units and two fans. Unlike traditional refrigerators, which feature one cooling system, dual-cooling offers a cooling system in the fresh food and frozen food compartments. The coldest refrigerators typically feature this type of cooling design as each compartment of the refrigerator is independently monitored to ensure the temperature remains constant. Another benefit is that dual-cooling refrigerators use less energy since each cooling system is responsible for a smaller area, resulting in less energy used to maintain a cold refrigerator.