Best Refrigerator for Vegetable Storage: Top 10 Models with Buying Guide

Buying a refrigerator for vegetables is not like getting just about any fridge that only includes some typical storage options for your fresh produce. After all, you’re buying an essential appliance which you don’t want to replace next year.

Refrigerators come in such a wide variety or range of sizes and shapes that you’ll only find it confusing to choose a model that fits your kitchen and budget.

How to Plan Ahead of Buying a Refrigerator for Vegetables?

Best Refrigerator for Vegetable Storage

It is a sensible idea to settle on your demands before looking for the best refrigerator for vegetable storage. When it comes to the primary needs and wants, there are basically four areas to focus on.

Measurements of the Space

You may want to count on your knowledge of the standard dimensions of refrigerators, but we still recommend that you gather these measurements using tape measures.

  • The width of the desired space where you’ll place the appliance. Measure that space at the narrowest points. It is essential to ensure a perfect fit.
  • Now, measure the height. Start from the floor and go all the way to the lowest point.
  • Find out the depth. Start from your back wall and reach the front edge of the counters.
  • For a kitchen with an island, you need to measure how far the island is from the counters that are adjacent to the appliance. You need this measurement to get enough clearance at the time of delivery.

Dependency on the Refrigerator (Usage)

Ask yourself the following questions and put down the answers as precisely as possible before considering the next factor.

  • How many people will the refrigerator be serving?
  • Do you want to cater to guests more frequently than once or twice a month?
  • Are you accustomed to eating out a lot?

Desirable Features

A refrigerator requires serious investment. For a vegetable refrigerator, you may not have much to think about because standard models include everything required to keep your veggies fresh.

What if you want your model to have stainless finish or some features like an ice maker or an external water dispenser? Create a list of features that you want the appliance to have since you’re probably buying one for a decade, to say the least.

Budget/ Price

Many buyers settle on a fixed budget and end up choosing a model that only seems to be working for them for a little while, not in the long run. Determine a flexible price range so that you can avoid going over the ceiling. Don’t forget to factor in performance, energy efficiency, and durability because these are the matters that affect your outlook on the budget.

Best Refrigerators for Vegetable Storage: A Quick Summary

Following is a list of best refrigerators for vegetables in terms of certain criteria like affordability, usability, and value-based considerations.

  • Refrigerator with Best ‘Price to Value’ Ratio: Kenmore 36-Inch Refrigerator
  • Best Refrigerator on Budget: Danby DFF092C1BSLDB Bottom Mount Refrigerator
  • Best Energy-Efficient Refrigerator: Galanz GLR10TWEEFR Fridge
  • Best Mini Refrigerator: RCA RFR322-B RFR322 Mini Fridge
  • Best Commercial Refrigerator: Lucky Kitchen Supply 52″ Commercial Refrigerator

Let’s take a look at the table below where we’ve put down some essential pieces of information to help you understand what to expect from the models that we’re going to review.

Comparison Chart: Best Vegetable Refrigerators

Image Product Features Price
Editor’S Pick

RCA RFR786 Black 2 Door 7.5 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Freezer

RCA RFR786 Black 2 Door 7.5 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Freezer
  • Type and Style: Compact, Freezer-on-Top
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 7.5
  • Storage Options: 3 Shelves, 1 Crisper Drawer
  • Energy Consumption: 378 kWh/ Year
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Editor’S Pick

Galanz GLR10TWEEFR Dual Door Fridge, 10.0 Cu Ft

Galanz GLR10TWEEFR Dual Door Fridge, 10.0 Cu Ft
  • Type and Style: Compact, Freezer-on-Top
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 10
  • Storage Options: 4 Shelves, 1 Crisper Drawer
  • Energy Consumption: 292 kWh/ Year
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Editor’S Pick

RCA RFR322-B RFR322 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge with Freezer

RCA RFR322-B RFR322 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge with Freezer
  • Type and Style: Single-Door, Mini Fridge
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 3.2
  • Storage Options: 2 Shelves
  • Energy Consumption: 206 kWh/ Year
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Editor’S Pick

Kenmore 36-Inch Side-by-Side 25 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Freezer

Kenmore 36-Inch Side-by-Side 25 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Freezer
  • Type and Style: Side-By-Side
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 25
  • Storage Options: 4 Shelves, 3 Drawers
  • Energy Consumption: 659 kWh/ Year
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Editor’S Pick

Haier Refrigerator with Bottom Freezer

Haier Refrigerator with Bottom Freezer
  • Type and Style: Counter-Depth. Freezer Bottom
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 16
  • Storage Options: 3 Shelves, 2 Drawers, 6 Door Bins
  • Energy Consumption: 448 kWh/ Year
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Editor’S Pick

Euhomy 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge with Freezer

Euhomy 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge with Freezer
  • Type and Style: Counter-Depth. Freezer Bottom
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 3.2
  • Storage Options: 2 Shelves, 1 Crisper
  • Energy Consumption: 0.98 kWh/ Day
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Editor’S Pick

Midea WHD-113FB1 3.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator

Midea WHD-113FB1 3.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator
  • Type and Style: Compact, Freezer-on-Top
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 3.1
  • Storage Options: 2 Shelves, 1 Crisper
  • Energy Consumption: 270 kWh/ Year
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Editor’S Pick

Antarctic Star Compact 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Refrigerator

Antarctic Star Compact 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Refrigerator
  • Type and Style: Compact, Freezer-on-Top
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 3.2
  • Storage Options: 2 Shelves, 1 Crisper
  • Energy Consumption: 60 Watts/ Hour
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Editor’S Pick

Danby DFF092C1BSLDB 9.2 Cu.Ft. Bottom Mount Refrigerator

Danby DFF092C1BSLDB 9.2 Cu.Ft. Bottom Mount Refrigerator
  • Type and Style: Freezer-on-Bottom
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 9.2
  • Storage Options: 4 Shelves, 3 Crispers
  • Energy Consumption: 374 kWh/ Year
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Editor’S Pick

Lucky Kitchen Supply 52

Lucky Kitchen Supply 52″ Side By Side Commercial Refrigerator
  • Type and Style: Built-in, Side-By-Side
  • Capacity (Cu. Ft.): 49
  • Storage Options: 3 Adjustable Shelves
  • Energy Consumption: 120 kWh/ Month
Check Price

10 Best Refrigerator for Fruit and Vegetable Storage

We’ve arranged the sections below to present choices for buyers with variable needs and budgets. Hopefully, you’ll be able to pick up one by the end of this discussion.

1. RCA RFR786 Black 2 Door 7.5 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Freezer

RCA RFR786 Black 2 Door 7.5 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator
This RCA model is 23″ wide with 2 doors including one for the top freezer and the other for fresh food storage. It fits conveniently into the kitchen of a small apartment but has a storage capacity of 7.5 cu. ft. in which 6 cu. ft. can be used for vegetables.

The capacity is definitely larger than that of a mini refrigerator and gets close to what a full-size model offers. With a regular cycle defrost system and mechanical controls, the RFR786 requires minimal maintenance.

The larger part contains a crisper drawer with a spill-proof glass cover as well as three adjustable shelves and the freezer has one removable wire shelf. These detachable parts allow you to arrange all your veggies just as you need. Use the storage bins for items that you don’t want to keep inside the crisper or on the shelves.

The door is reversible with a movable hinge to make access easy for both right and left-handed users. The legs stay level having adjustable positions. The back has a smooth design to match your interior wall well.

The built-in thermostat has a knob to allow for quick temperature adjustments. A simple push on the defrost button signals the machine to start defrosting. You can benefit from the incandescent lighting that is bright enough to illuminate your way inside the unit.

What Do We Like?
  • Freestanding and compact form factor
  • Affordable with adequate storage for vegetables
  • Roomy interiors with adjustable shelves for organizing items inside the compartments
  • Thermostat controls and regular door design for ease of use throughout the day
  • Only a little maintenance required
What Could Be Improved?
  • The product might be energy-efficient as the manufacturer says its annual energy consumption is 378 kWh/ year. But an Energy Star Certification could bring peace of mind.
  • RCA has a lot to improve on their customer service and 1-year warranty support.

2. Galanz GLR10TWEEFR Dual Door Fridge, 10.0 Cu Ft

Galanz GLR10TWEEFR Dual Door Fridge

No surprise awaits you as you fix your eyes on GLR10TWEEFR. An adjustable thermostat, a refrigerator with a separate freezer on top, interior lighting, several door shelves, and a vegetable crisper are all you’ll see at the first look.

Inside the fresh food compartment are two glass shelves, one crisper with a glass cover, and one crystal crisper with the humidity control system. The freezer has one glass shelf. Shelves inside both compartments can be fully slid out.

Capacity of the appliance is 10.0 cu. ft. that is distributed across the freezer by 2.42 cu. ft. and the larger half by 7.42 cu. Ft. where you’ll find 6 can dispensers, 2-gallon and a 2-liter bottle door storage bin.

You have to pull a chrome handle (which is actually made with plastic) to open the doors. Two leveling legs mounted on the front to hold the weight evenly. This Galanz model is not what you call a compact unit, but the freestanding design comes handy.

Unlike the RCA RFR786, GLR10TWEEFR comes with Energy Star rating which means the appliance has been manufactured with the federal guidelines for energy efficiency in mind. Its annual energy consumption is only 292 kwh requiring you to spend around $37 per year. A huge plus, isn’t it?

What Do We Like?
  • Adequate storage for fresh vegetables and food items needed by a family of 2-3 member(s)
  • Adjustable thermostat for keeping veggies in temperatures from 32℉ to 47℉
  • Low maintenance requirements and easy to use
  • PCM door material to release thermal energy to maintain a consistently regulated temperature
  • Reduced annual energy cost translating to great affordability over the years
What Could Be Improved?
  • The flimsy handle could use high-strength material like chrome (although the manufacturer has advertised the use of chrome).
  • A cooling fan would be installed to keep the compressor operational under stress.

3. RCA RFR322-B RFR322 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge with Freezer

RCA RFR322-B RFR322 3.2 Cu
It is neither a standard size nor a large unit. You might be wondering how a mini fridge found its place on this list of the best refrigerators for vegetable storage. Well, usability is the key consideration, which we are going to explain with a bunch of other features.

Three different types of racks are available for fresh veggies, dairy, and bottles. The food shelf is removable, and a drip tray comes included. Despite the small capacity (only 3.2 cu. ft.), you don’t want to ignore the internal freezer that packs an advanced technology in a tiny yet well-designed compartment.

There is just one door using the same reversible style as other RCA models. The level legs are sturdy and durable, making it a breeze for you to place the appliance anywhere inside the home. The metal exterior is easy to clean and keep shiny for years.

An adjustable thermostat knob is installed inside the top right corner. Simply twist the knob to ensure your desired temperature. The defrost button requires a gentle push to start working. The Energy Star rating confirms its annual energy usage which is only 206 kWh. You will need to spend less than $2.5 per month and $30 per year.

What Do We Like?
  • Budget-friendly appliance with space-saving and lightweight design for quick portability
  • Shiny metal finish with reversible door and durable shelves
  • Eight vibrant colors to match most kitchens or dining spaces
  • High-quality compressor with low energy requirement
  • Handy thermostat knob and defrost button
What Could Be Improved?
  • The cooling capacity of the fridge needs to be consistent since the highest settings for cooling have been reported to not work properly all the time.
  • Customer support system should improve.

4. Kenmore 36-Inch Side-by-Side 25 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator with Freezer

Kenmore 36-Inch
This Kenmore model is different from all the above refrigerators we’ve discussed so far. It has plenty of room inside to keep enough veggies for small to medium sized families. It doesn’t look like a regular compact refrigerator, but its design is suitable for small apartments or kitchens.

With 25 cu. ft. capacity (15.46 cu. ft. for the fresh food compartment and 9.11 cu. ft. for the freezer), the fridge comes with adjustable storage options including shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, and gallon-sized bins, all of which are easy to use and clean. You won’t help noticing the dedicated dairy shelf.

The freezer unit includes 4 door bins and 3 baskets/ shelves while the refrigerator unit has 2 drawers, 4 shelves, and 5 door bins. The contoured door style and slide-out crisper bring users utmost comfort as they happen to use the refrigerator quite a few times throughout the day.

There is an in-door ice and water dispenser to make fresh water available. The dual pad saves you the hassles of fumbling with buttons. A transparent built-in window for the ice dispenser allows you to monitor the ice levels without opening/ touching anything.

The defrost system is actually an automatic frost-free unit that works with only a little intervention from you. Both the ice and water dispensers are durable. The absence of adjustable legs may seem a downside, which we think is pretty common for a side-by-side refrigerator. So, it is not a disadvantage but part of the design that is typical to the category.

What Do We Like?
  • A heavy-duty appliance with adequate storage capacity for a family of several members
  • Smooth door finish, sturdy handle, and easily accessible glass shelves, requiring low maintenance
  • Convenient thru-door water filter and ice dispenser systems
  • Energy-efficient for a large capacity refrigerator
  • Excellent customer support and useful product manual
What Could Be Improved?
  • An Energy Star rating could make a product at this price more presentable.
  • The noise during the ice-making process should be reduced.

5. Haier 16 Cu. Ft. 4 Door Refrigerator with Bottom Freezer

Haier 16 Cu. Ft. 4 Door Refrigerator
This large appliance lends a classic appearance with its stainless steel finish and center pocket handles. Despite being neither compact nor lightweight, it fits nicely within confined spaces in regular apartments or kitchens.

It has a total capacity of 16.4 cu. Ft. including 11.19 cu. Ft. for the fresh food compartment and 5.54 cu. Ft. for the freezer. The fresh food cabinet has 2 clear drawers and 2 adjustable full-width shelves made with tempered glass. In addition, 8 encapsulated bins (with the door) are available. The freezer cabinet has 2 sliding drawers and 4 sliding bins.

Here is a special note for lovers of veggies. The crisper of the refrigerator has a fully functional High/ Low settings for humidity control, which make it easy for you to ensure an ideal environment for leafy greens and vegetables.

This quad-door refrigerator offers a bunch of smart features, such as the Auto Defrost, Quick Cool and Freeze functions (to accelerate cooling/ freezing), and the Sabbath mode (to disable functions following Sabbath practices).

Other features include the capacitive touch panel (to control temperatures by 1 degree up/ down upon each press), LED lighting (to illuminate the interior while being more energy-efficient than incandescent lighting), and the door alarm.

The HRQ16N3BGS consumes 448 kWh of energy per year. So, its Energy Star rating might not grab your attention since some other models can be more efficient.

What Do We Like?
  • Larger fresh food compartment to support the needs of a medium-sized family that relies on vegetables
  • Stainless steel exteriors with a curved door style makes for a classy kitchen setup
  • Long-lasting compressor with consistent cooling/ freezing functions
  • A handful of smart features to enhance day-to-day usability
  • Reliable customer support throughout and beyond the warranty period
What Could Be Improved?
  • An ice and water dispenser could be integrated since dozens of refrigerators from other brands include them but come at or below the price tag that this one comes with.

6. Euhomy 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge with Freezer

Euhomy 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge
It is another mini fridge like the RCA RFR322-B RFR322 in terms of size and capacity yet having significant differences in the design and performance. Despite the small size, the appliance consists of two storage zones such as the fridge having 2.24 cu. ft. for keeping vegetables fresh and the freezer having 0.96 cu. ft. for frozen food or ice cream.

The mini refrigerator uses its own 3D refrigeration mechanism along with 7 temperature settings to allow for temperature adjustments according to your day-to-day needs. Its compressor operates efficiently without causing much noise.

Inside the compact unit are a crisper drawer and several adjustable, multi-layered shelves, all of which are easy to clean and organize. The quality of the LED lighting setup is above average, just good enough to illuminate the interiors at night.

Both doors are reversible and allow you to handle them maintaining different positions based on the space available inside the room. The appliance stands on adjustable feet that keep the floor from getting wet. The UL certified refrigerator only uses 0. 98 kW a day.

What Do We Like?
  • Compact design and adjustable storage options
  • Energy-saving mechanism with effective heat insulation
  • Microcellular foaming technology to lock the compartments effectively, thereby keeping up the cooling effect inside
  • Reliable compressor for low-noise operations and good performance in the long run
  • Freestanding model with leveling legs for quick moving from one spot to another
What Could Be Improved?
  • The fridge doesn’t run on a portable power source as its label suggests. However, it draws power and works properly on a regular power supply system.

7. Midea WHD-113FB1 3.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator

Midea WHD-113FB1 3.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator
This model features a glossy finish with reversible hinges on the door and adjustable legs on the front part. Its interior walls are tapered toward the appliance’s back, but that is only slightly and for the sake of balance as it stands on the ground.

Its freestanding design makes it an ideal cooling machine for food that can be placed in your small kitchen, office room, dorm, or garage. The fresh food section has a capacity of 2.2 cu. ft. and the freezer section has 0.9 cu. ft.

Two glass shelves are removable for easy cleaning. A transparent crisper drawer sits at the bottom to keep your vegetables fresh. Regular bottle sizes and dairy containers easily fit inside the compact fridge.

Use the adjustable thermostat to maintain an optimum temperature between 33.8°F and 50°F. Oh, the freezer can keep foods at temperatures between -11.2°F and 10.4°F. The model’s Energy Star certification is a plus as it draws only 270 kWh/ year. The LED lights illuminate as much as you need while attempting to find and grab something.

What Do We Like?
  • Compact design and sturdy hardware at the bottom for safe moving
  • A relatively spacious crisper (considering the overall capacity) for vegetable storage
  • A well-built thermostat allowing a wide range of temperature settings for both sections
  • Energy-efficient and low-noise operation
  • High-quality door seal allowing for opening and closing at gentle pulls and pushes
What Could Be Improved?
  • The compressor used in the refrigerator is not what the manufacturer exactly claims – an ‘advanced’ compressor.

8. Antarctic Star Compact 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Refrigerator

Antarctic Star Compact 3.2 Cu. Ft. Mini Refrigerator
This compact refrigerator has a smooth stainless-steel finish with two reversible hinges on both doors and a manual defrost system. The fridge (2.24 cu. ft.) and the freezer (0.96 cu. ft.) account for a total capacity of 3.2 cu. ft.

The adjustable thermostat rotates easily, allowing users up to 7 different positions to maintain temperatures between 32°F and 50°F for the fridge unit. The freezer operates at temperatures between -1°F and -3°F, and all the while, the machine works quietly, making only 38 dB of noise.

Two shelves and one crisper are available to keep your food fresh. Both doors include space for beverages, drinks, dairy products, and other frozen items. Both the drawer and shelves are removable for quick cleaning and adjustable for accommodating containers of variable sizes.

The appliance uses R600a refrigerant which is an eco-friendly product in the sense that it doesn’t add to greenhouse effects around your home. Rather, it adds to your fridge’s cooling performance while causing it to operate without consuming much power.

What Do We Like?
  • Stainless steel finish on the exterior complemented with solid pattern for a premium look on a budget-friendly appliance
  • Freestanding style and space-saving design for small kitchens and tight spaces
  • Good cooling capacity on low power usage
  • Manual defrost system resulting in low energy consumption
  • Excellent after-sales support
What Could Be Improved?
  • The door hinges could be made stronger.
  • The leveling legs should have been sturdier.

9. Danby DFF092C1BSLDB 9.2 Cu.Ft. Bottom Mount Refrigerator

Danby DFF092C1BSLDB 9.2 Cu.Ft. Bottom Mount Refrigerator
The look of this refrigerator’s exterior is very close to what you call stainless steel. Not to highlight the negative side, stainless steel finish can smudge with time. But the finish on this model (both front and back), according to Danby, stays smooth. The integrated handle and reversible hinges make it even easy for kids to open and/or close the doors.

The fresh food section includes a spacious crisper with a durable glass cover, two removable glass shelves, and three door shelves. The freezer section has a wire shelf. These full-width shelves are adjustable. The dispenser is slightly better than what you would see in an average refrigerator.

Use of R600a refrigerant and the Energy Star certification clear all doubts about the appliance’s being energy-efficient and environmentally friendly while performing as expected.

Relying on a frost-free mechanism, the fridge requires less maintenance than most refrigerators in the same category. The electronic thermostat and the interior LED lights are not exceptional, but they are useful.

What Do We Like?
  • Standard capacity for small families and sensible distribution of space across the fridge (6.2 cu. ft.) and freezer (3 cu. ft.)
  • Relatively compact for a 24-inch wide refrigerator and stylish design
  • Energy-saving operation and eco-friendly refrigerant
  • Specialized beverage and water dispensing system
  • Low maintenance required; thanks to the frost-free operation
What Could Be Improved?
  • More thermostat settings could be better.
  • It should have been a little quieter when it runs.

10. Lucky Kitchen Supply 52″ Side By Side Commercial Refrigerator

Lucky Kitchen Supply 52
Compared to the other models on our list, this one comes with a higher capacity (49 cu. ft.) and the features required in commercial spaces. Even for a family that caters to a group of people quite a few times per month, the refrigerator might be a tad bit of a lavish investment.

Built to serve guests or diners at a restaurant, its stainless steel finish is imbued with a neutral tone to match the classy interiors of a modern kitchen. Mounted on the bottom is a swivel system that combines 4 wheels including two with brakes for controlled and easy mobility.

The pull door handles are recessed, meaning that they slide right in front of whatever is inside, and you need not worry that they could hang up. The door locks prevent random access to the food. The doors stay open when kept past 90°, but they close automatically when kept at 90°.

The temperature control panel uses an advanced controller that lets you know the temperature differentials easily. The down-duct distribution system circulates cool air evenly across all six (three per section) epoxy-coated, corrosion-free shelves.

The top-mount EMBARCO compressor works without a lot of vibration and noise. Its placement makes it appropriate for areas that can be dusty most of the time throughout the day. The refrigeration system provides a balanced, self-contained cooling environment where temperatures can be adjusted from 32°F to 38°F (fresh food section) and -8°F to 0°F (freezer).

What Do We Like?
  • Reasonable price for a commercial refrigerator
  • High-quality materials for durability and performance
  • Large capacity with heavy-duty compressor
  • Excellent mobility and safety features
  • Efficient temperature distribution and management
What Could Be Improved?
  • Energy efficiency is overrated (Energy consumption being 120 kWh is far from what practical experience indicates).

So, you have the plan and the list of some of the top models in the market. What else is there to know about? We still have several factors to describe. Keep reading.

How to Choose the Best Refrigerator for Vegetable Storage?

Since you’re only looking for the best of vegetable refrigerators, you should know which factors to be considered with caution. All of the above products may not be the one you need, but there are certain criteria which you can think about while finalizing your choice. Following are the key considerations for those trying to purchase a refrigerator.

Refrigerator Types

As long as you are concerned about the type, there are five options such as,

  • Standard-depth refrigerators are known for more storage but heavier builds than other types. Width ranges from 30″ to 36″ and height up to 70″.
  • Counter-depth refrigerators are shallower but wider than their standard-depth counterparts but more visually appealing and suitable for the kitchens that have counter space. They allow you to have more room as you open their doors. Wider trays can be accommodated to keep many items in tight space.
  • Built-in refrigerators require more space being wider and taller than freestanding models. These high-end appliances may require installation by a professional.
  • Freestanding refrigerators have deeper compartments and require simple installation.
  • Mini refrigerators come with capacities ranging from 1.7 cu. ft. to 5.6 cu. ft. and in a built-in or freestanding style. These appliances are suitable for office spaces, dorms, garages, etc.

Refrigerator Styles

While the above section discusses the depth, sizes, and other measurements of a refrigerator, this one is about the overall styles that fridges come in. We’ve got seven different styles to talk about.

  • French Door refrigerators have twin doors with full-width compartments for fresh food. Space-saving yet having much room inside, these models often feature a refrigerated drawer, making themselves five-door refrigerators that account for two more compartments.
  • Side-by-Side refrigerators have narrow doors which make them ideal for galley kitchens or certain other places within your house that have limited space.
  • Refrigerators with (Top/ Bottom) Freezers have wide shelves in both the freezer and fresh-food compartments and reversible doors for flexible door opening and closing. Bottom-freezer models make it more convenient than top-freezer ones to find fresh produce. In terms of capacity, this style follows the above two.
  • Compact refrigerators are getting popular with people having a small kitchen. These fridges are often considered with mini fridges and rightfully so.
  • Drawer refrigerators are chosen by many because they let you organize, find, and grab items in an instant. These fridges allow owners to stock their favorite vegetables and fruits while freeing up some space in the main refrigerator for other foods.
  • Fridge-only refrigerators provided a whole unit for fresh food and produce. These appliances maintain one temperature across its entire space, thereby creating a specialized environment wherein food can be cooled.
  • Commercial refrigerators are known as reach-in models found in supermarkets. These appliances are designed with the particular needs of commercial settings in mind.

Capacities and Sizes

Consider your consumer behavior. More dependency on fresh foods means you need plenty of space in the fridge unit and quick access to it. If you are not used to preparing your own food regularly or entertaining guests with homemade foods, you can choose a mini fridge. As you have read the first few paragraphs where we talked about the measurements, carry out these tasks too.

  • Keep extra space on all sides of the appliance for uninterrupted airflow and door opening/ closing.
  • Allow for a little space at the rear of your refrigerator if you’re buying one with a water dispenser. The supply line and fittings need space.
  • Make sure your doorways are spacious enough to let the delivery of the refrigerator in.
  • Have the necessary arrangements to deal with the tight corners (if any) as you proceed to the installation job.

Storage Options

Although most refrigerators offer almost the same types of storage components, some models come with smart organization aids and compartments that only enhance your ease of use and ensure proper refrigeration of vegetables.

  • Adjustable Shelves that flip vertically from the door hinges on the shelves’ outside edges and slide
  • Shelves that slide properly in and out while staying within the cavity of the unit
  • Door Bins (preferably gallon size) that can keep 2-liter bottles and different sizes of cans and containers.
  • Crispers or Clear Drawers with humidity controls for vegetables and fruits
  • Pantry Drawers having the width of the actual refrigerator that create a specialized temperature zone for foods to be consumed later

Compressor Capacity

The capacity of a refrigerator compressor is calculated in relation to pressure levels and temperature because the vapor molecules of refrigerant occupy a certain volume that varies depending on the pressures and temperatures within the refrigeration system.

CFM (cubic feet/ minute) or CFH (cubic feet/ hour) is the unit that measures compressor capacity. Since both CFH and CFM ratings are proportional to a compressor’s cooling capacity, refrigerators with a higher CFM/ CFH ratings have higher cooling capacities.

HP (horse power) and efficiency are two other factors that should be considered. Compressors with relatively lower HP ratings are not always good though they may have the right capacity.

Smart Features

The following features may not be available in every refrigerator. Given the many advantages, they bring you’ll love to have them in your chosen model.

  • Models with ice and water dispensers come at a price that is at least 10% higher than the ones without them. In addition, you’ll be trading ice/water for some storage space and paying for higher energy costs.
  • Door-in-Door Access to Storage lets you have the frequently used items without entirely opening the door, which helps you save on the energy bills.
  • Dual Evaporators are good at keeping the humidity levels high and preventing the odors (from the freezer) from entering there. The air purifiers remove mold spores and bacteria, while crisper drawers keep vegetables fresh.
  • Temperature Controls allow you to choose from the different temperature settings as you need certain areas (maybe a drawer) within the refrigerators to be cooler than the others.

Energy Efficiency and Energy Star Rating

Today’s refrigerators are way more energy-efficient than the ones we used to have a decade ago. Besides what is written on the manufacturer’s label, you have another way, a reliable one indeed, to know if the refrigerators you’re looking at are rated for energy efficiency.

You’ve seen several products that we’ve reviewed here have Energy Star Rating. However, the EnergyGuide labels don’t tell you the full story because the efficiency of fridges varies by models and some operating features. At times, you might see that an Energy Star rated French-Door fridge consumes more electricity than a top-freezer model without the rating.

To know the operating costs of your fridge, you need to find out the kilowatt-hours (kWh) that a model uses per year and then use the formula below.

kWh/ Year X 14.11 Cents = Annual Energy Cost

Here 14.11 is the average cost of electricity per kilowatt (kWh) in the United States. If a refrigerator is rated at 500 kWh/ year, it’ll require you to pay around $70 per year and $700 throughout the appliance’s entire lifespan (based on a 10-year basis).

Refrigerator Finish

Maybe, you already got a choice which is most preferably stainless steel. Models with stainless steel finishes may cost you at least a hundred bucks more than those with other finishes. There are ‘faux steel’ refrigerators which are significantly less expensive. You can also choose from other finishes such as black, white, slate, and matte.

FAQs about Refrigerators for Vegetable Storage

Because these appliances are not optional and they are left to work all day and night, questions may come to mind. These are the most common questions that owners often ask.

What to Do If You See Water in the Bottom of the Fridge Under Vegetable Drawers?

As the freezer of a refrigerator starts defrosting, water keeps draining through a certain tube called the defrost tube and goes into a drain pan before eventually evaporating. A clogged drain tube is usually the common cause that prevents the water from draining down.

When the water cannot be drained, the puddle under your crisper drawers collects the water, which is why you might find water under your vegetable drawers. If yours is a refrigerator with a water dispenser, you should be aware of the possibility of water leaking from that dispenser and finding its way under the vegetable drawers.

With a clean and undamaged drain tube, you shouldn’t have worries. But a clogged, leaky, or damaged drain tube needs to be cleaned or replaced.

Cleaning the Drain Tube of the Defrost System

The defrost system includes a drain tube that transfers condensate on a scheduled basis from the drip tray under the refrigerator’s evaporator to a drain pan that is located in the machine compartment right next to the unit’s compressor.

In the event of that drip tray being frozen, the condensate water finds no way but to overflow into the refrigerator compartment. You need to thaw the drain area to ensure the proper flow of the condensate through that drain tube and then into that drain pan.

Replacing the Water System Tubing

Refrigerators with built-in water dispenser and/or ice maker. The water line that connects the water components may break or leak. The water lines should be replaced immediately in such circumstances.

Adjusting the Doors

Freezers or fridges with a dented/ bent door hinge may sag, thereby compromising the seal and letting warm air directly into the appliance. Consequently, the moist air can contribute to the formation of excessive frost on the refrigerator’s drain tube, forcing it to freeze. Check the hinges and replace or adjust them, so the doors seal and shut properly.

How Long Does Vegetable Broth Last in the Fridge?

Let’s assume you have bought a can or carton of vegetable broth from a local store. The usual shelf life of the product is 1–2 years (s), and if you are lucky, it may last for an additional 2–3 months after the printed date passes.

Once the can is opened and you keep the leftovers in your fridge; the product inside will last for 3–4 days or one more day at most. Homemade broth can be kept fresh for a little longer but not exceeding a week.

Vegetable broth, if not opened, may last for several months, but it won’t last for that long once opened, no matter where you store it. If you think you need it fresh for longer than 3–4 days, you can consider freezing whatever is left.

How Long Does Vegetable Juice Last in the Fridge?

That depends on the storage conditions. You should refrigerate vegetable juice fresh by keeping the container opened and the doors tightly closed. If you keep the juice in refrigeration after opening, it may last up to two weeks.

The shelf life can be extended if it is kept in the freezer. For this, you need to store the juice in an airtight container with 1/2-inch headspace on its top. The juice is likely to expand in its frozen state that makes the headspace important.

Properly stored in the freezer unit, the juice should last for up to a year, maintaining its nutrition and best quality. However, you can consider it safe for a few more weeks. Make sure the temperature inside the freezer is 0° F.

How to Create Additional Vegetable Storage in the Fridge?

Vegetables are usually stored in the crispers, the enclosed drawers located at the bottom of a refrigerator. But how can you create additional storage space? Truth be told, you cannot increase the space for vegetables.

You might have heard of the use of bins, baskets, flower vases, or mason jars. These additional containers can help you organize the fresh produce without occupying the valuable storage space. Use drawer dividers to allow every veggie its own place. Some vegetables can also be kept inside plastic bags.

A refrigerator that has a capacity of 3.2 cu. ft. cannot be turned into a 5 cu. ft. unit. However, these vegetable storage ideas will help you store more in the available space and these are good for vegetarians

What to Line Your Vegetable Drawer with in the Fridge?

Let us explain the question for you. Veggies stored in the crisper drawer release moisture which stays inside only to cause the produce to turn brown and go bad faster than you expect. So, you need to line the drawer with something that absorbs that moisture and spare you the trouble of dealing with rotten or limp produce.

Line paper towels on the drawer’s bottom, so they can absorb the moisture and keep the veggies fresh. Remember that you cannot keep those for longer than a day or two. Check the drawer at least three times a week and get rid of the old sheets to stick new ones every time you check.

What Are the Common Symptoms That Tell a Refrigerator Isn’t Working Properly?

Regardless of the model or brand, refrigerators might show certain symptoms which need to be addressed immediately as you notice one or more of them.

  • The freezer doesn’t get cold enough.
  • The ice maker doesn’t make ice.
  • Frost is building up in the freezer.
  • The appliance doesn’t run or cool at all.
  • Water is dripping from the fridge onto the ground.
  • Loud noise is coming from the fridge.

Besides the above issues, other problems might occur, but these ones occur more frequently than those. You can troubleshoot most of these problems without asking a technician for help.

How to Improve the Efficiency of a Refrigerator in 5 Easy Steps?

Improving the efficiency of your fridge is directly associated with how the compressor is allowed to run. The less this component needs to work, the more efficiency your refrigerator will deliver.

  • Shielding a refrigerator from various heat sources like stoves, sunlight, heat vents, etc. accounts for less usage of the compressor, thereby increasing its durability.
  • Organizing the leftovers is important. Cover or wrap the items tightly prior to refrigeration.
  • Try to not open the refrigerator door unless you really have to. It is wise to grab several items at a time instead of bringing out one at a time.
  • Adjust the temperature settings to keep it at a mid-point which is usually 36°F to 38°F for the fridge and 0°F to 5°F for the freezer.
  • Organize the boxes, dishes, bags, and other containers following a proper plan so that heat doesn’t get trapped inside your refrigerator and you can access food items easily without opening the door more frequently throughout the day.

Alongside the above suggestions, you must follow the rules of routine maintenance because lack of maintenance results in a malfunctioning appliance.

What Can You Do to Ensure Routine Maintenance?

Maintenance often takes a few minutes if you do it on a schedule. Here is a list of activities involved in it. Please be advised that the following tasks don’t include what must be handled by a professional technician.

  • Clean the refrigerator coils.
  • Maintain the unit’s temperatures as recommended.
  • Check the seal of the gasket.
  • Check and replace the filters if necessary.
  • Empty the freezer’s ice.
  • Check if the fridge stands on level ground.

With a little knowledge about refrigerators and adherence to the user manual, you can handle most of these tasks without breaking anything or worrying about voiding the warranty.

Conclusion

Before we finish, we would like you to read a few more lines. Remember the quick summary section where we mentioned a few names, one of which could make it to your own list as the best refrigerator for vegetable storage? 

We can make more recommendations, in case you want to explore other alternatives. Speaking of value, Kenmore adds much, but the Haier refrigerator can be really close.

Galanz GLR10TWEEFR saves energy while performing well, and Danby DFF092C1BSLDB can be considered too. The RCA RFR786 Refrigerator may not be as energy-efficient as the Galanz model, but it only costs slightly under half the price.

For a mini fridge, you can take a look at the Euhomy model if you need something that stands equal to RCA RFR322-B RFR322.

Still got questions about these or any other refrigerator? Feel free to let us know. We are always ready to help. 

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