Refrigerator advice

[lordkenmore]

A neighbor asked me for ideas for replacing 2 refrigerators (one his, one is his daughters). Both are apparently newer--the type that lasts 10 years if you are lucky.

What is currently the best, most reliable choice for an inexpensive, new refrigerator? (Both buyers have a strict budget at the moment.)

The other question is what brands in the past (say, up to 20 years or so) hold up well? Used is one possible consideration.

I don't think vintage would meet with much enthusiasm from the intended buyers or their spouses. (Although I am tempted to suggest vintage anyway. "It was made before either of you was born. It will probably still be running long after you are gone!)

 

[frigilux]

I've had great luck with Frigidaire's refrigerators. I have two; one is 8 years old, and the other is 3. My old refrigerator has been in the break room at work for three years, and it is probably at least 14-15 years old by now. Never a problem with any of them. The newest fridge is also extremely energy efficient. And they're competitively priced, too.

A friend with rental properties in Winona, MN, e-mailed a couple of weeks ago and asked for my opinion on a new fridge for one of the rentals. I suggested she check out Whirlpool and Frigidaire, which she did. It came down to a Frigidaire and a Kenmore, and the Kenmore was on sale at Sears, so she bought it.

 

[combo52]

NEW BASIC REFERGERATORS

WP # 1 by far GE #2 Frigidare #3 most times not too bad but still has more leaky evaporators the WP & GE combined. I have thrown away at least a dozen Frigidares this summer that are less than 5 years old. Anew basic ref should last around 30 years with good care and one or two service calls over this period of time.

 

[DADoES]

 
My KA/Whirlpool top-freezer unit bought 11/22/1997 has run for the duration with no repairs or trouble.  Has been in my garage for the past 5.5 years, subject to Texas summer heat and the occasional "winter" cold spell (two freezes last season).

Granny's Whirly bought on 11/16/1984 (26 years in a couple more months) also has had no repairs.

 

[maytagbear]

For lower priced new fridges,

I'd really look at Whirlpool's "value" lines, Estate or Inglis.

I have good friends who entertain a lot, and their 9 year old Estate SxS is going strong.

Lawrence/Maytagbear