Do They Make a Side-by-Side With No Water Dispenser?

About Side by Side Refrigerators

• Although manufacturers usually equip side-by-side models with ice-makers and water dispensers -- the top requests from consumers -- it's possible to find the door configuration you’re looking for without having to shell out for features you don’t need, such as a water dispenser. Most kitchen appliance manufacturers offer basic refrigerator models with side-by-side doors, and these stylish, affordable appliances come in finishes to suit any decor. If you appreciate the narrower door swing of a standard side-by-side model, but want to maximize your food storage, consider a French door refrigerator. A bottom freezer compartment spans the entire width of the unit to accommodate large containers, and the fridge is easy to access through side-by-side doors on top.

Save Energy

• Some modern refrigerator features might improve the way you use your kitchen, but can also increase your expenses. A fridge with a built-in multimedia system might be the ultimate in luxury, but any feature that draws more electricity will impact your pocketbook. According to Energy Star, you increase your energy consumption by 14 to 20 percent when you opt for a refrigerator that features an ice-maker and an in-door water dispenser.

Spend Less

• Energy Star also notes that you’ll save between $75 and $250 by purchasing a side-by-side refrigerator that doesn’t come with a water dispenser or ice-maker. Side-by-side refrigerators range in price from $700 to $3,000 as of 2011. If you choose a French door model, expect to spend between $1,200 and $3,500. Side-by-side doors also help you to conserve energy each time you open your fridge; since you’ll usually open only door at a time, you’ll let in less warm air.

Avoid Repair Bills

• Choosing a refrigerator without an ice-maker and water dispenser not only saves you money at the store and on your utility bill, it also might help you to avoid costly repairs. These two commonplace refrigerator features are likely to require more than a simple fix during the lifetime of your appliance, and the costs might end up outweighing the convenience factor. A well-designed, basic model offers fewer opportunities for troubleshooting.