Best Freezer Buying Guide

When it comes to purchasing a freezer, whether for home use, a commercial setting, or specific storage needs, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your requirements. Freezers come in various sizes, types, and features, and making the right choice can help you save energy, reduce food waste, and improve overall storage efficiency. In this buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before buying a freezer, from understanding the different types to evaluating key features and choosing the right model for your needs.

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1. Types of Freezers

Freezers are available in several types, each designed to meet different storage needs. Understanding the differences between these types will help you make an informed decision based on your space, usage, and storage requirements.

1.1. Chest Freezers

Chest freezers are popular for their large storage capacity and energy efficiency. They open from the top and offer ample room for large items like bulk meats, frozen vegetables, and frozen bulk foods. They are ideal for families, businesses, or anyone needing significant storage space. These freezers are also great for long-term storage as they maintain a more consistent temperature even during power outages.

1.2. Upright Freezers

Upright freezers resemble refrigerators in appearance and operate similarly. They stand upright and have shelves, making them easy to organize and access items without having to dig through stacks of food. If you have limited space or need something that’s easier to access regularly, an upright freezer might be the better choice.

Upright Freezer

1.3. Drawer Freezers

Drawer freezers are typically used in kitchens or smaller spaces. They are similar to a chest freezer but have a pull-out drawer design, making it easier to organize and retrieve food. These freezers are compact and ideal for kitchens or apartments with limited space, but they typically have smaller storage capacities than chest or upright freezers.

1.4. Commercial Freezers

Commercial freezers are designed for high-capacity, heavy-duty use and are commonly used in restaurants, supermarkets, or foodservice businesses. These freezers can either be chest or upright models, and they are built for long-term, high-volume storage and accessibility. They are typically more expensive but offer higher reliability and efficiency for businesses that need to store large quantities of frozen goods.

2. Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Freezer

Once you have an idea of which type of freezer best suits your needs, there are several key factors to consider before making your purchase.

2.1. Size and Storage Capacity

The size of your freezer will depend on your available space and how much frozen food you plan to store. Freezer capacity is typically measured in cubic feet, and you should choose one based on your household or business needs:

• Small (5-7 cubic feet): Ideal for small households, apartments, or individuals with limited space.
• Medium (8-14 cubic feet): Suitable for families, offering enough room for bulk purchases and storage.
• Large (15+ cubic feet): Best for large families or businesses that need significant storage for frozen goods.

Before purchasing, measure the space in which the freezer will be placed to ensure it fits comfortably. Don't forget to account for additional space needed for ventilation and door clearance.

2.2. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important consideration for both environmental and cost reasons. Freezers are typically used for long periods, so a model with low energy consumption can save you money on electricity bills. Look for freezers that have the Energy Star label, which indicates they meet the standards for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

In general, chest freezers tend to be more energy-efficient than upright freezers because their top-opening design minimizes cold air loss when the door is opened. However, an upright freezer with good insulation can still offer energy savings if used properly.

Vertical Commercial Display Freezer

2.3. Temperature Control and Performance

Temperature control is crucial in ensuring your frozen goods stay at the right temperature for preservation. Most freezers have a dial or digital control that allows you to adjust the internal temperature. Some advanced models come with temperature alarms that alert you if the temperature rises above a safe level, preventing food spoilage in case of power outages or malfunctions.

Look for freezers that provide a consistent temperature and have a good insulation system to minimize the risk of temperature fluctuations.

2.4. Defrosting Methods

There are two main defrosting options for freezers: manual and automatic (frost-free) defrosting.

• Manual Defrost: These freezers require you to manually remove frost buildup by turning off the freezer and letting the ice melt. They are typically less expensive but require more maintenance.
• Automatic Defrost: These freezers automatically melt any frost that accumulates, saving you time and effort. They are more convenient but may be slightly more expensive than manual models.

2.5. Noise Level

If you plan to place your freezer in a living space or a shared area, consider the noise level. While most freezers are relatively quiet, some models may produce more noise during operation. Look for product reviews that mention noise levels or ask the manufacturer for decibel information if this is a concern.

2.6. Price

The price of freezers can vary greatly depending on the size, brand, features, and design. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, consider the long-term value of your purchase. Energy-efficient models and those with added features (like digital controls or frost-free operation) may have a higher initial cost but will save you money in the long run through lower energy consumption and reduced maintenance.

3. Popular Features to Look For

In addition to the basic features, many freezers offer additional features that can improve convenience, storage, and functionality:

3.1. Adjustable Shelves

Freezers with adjustable or removable shelves allow you to customize the internal layout and make room for bulkier items. This feature is especially useful in upright freezers where organizing and accessing different items can be tricky without proper shelving.

3.2. Locking Mechanism

Some freezers come with a locking mechanism, which can provide added security for businesses, homes with children, or anyone who needs to prevent unauthorized access to the freezer. It’s a great feature for ensuring that sensitive or valuable items remain secure.

3.3. Fast Freeze Function

A fast freeze function is designed to quickly lower the temperature inside the freezer, which is useful when you need to freeze large quantities of food quickly or preserve freshly bought items without waiting for the freezer to cool down.

3.4. Energy-Saving Modes

Many modern freezers come with energy-saving modes that help to reduce power consumption when the freezer is not in use or when it's running at less than full capacity. These modes can be particularly useful for minimizing energy use in homes with variable freezing needs.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

4.1. How long do freezers typically last?

The average lifespan of a freezer is around 10-20 years, depending on the model and how well it’s maintained. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the condenser coils and ensuring the door seals are intact, can extend its lifespan.

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4.2. What is the ideal temperature for a freezer?

The ideal temperature for a freezer is 0°F (-18°C). This ensures that food stays properly frozen and maintains its quality for the longest period. Check the freezer's temperature regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly.

4.3. Is it better to buy a chest freezer or an upright freezer?

The choice depends on your needs. Chest freezers are more energy-efficient and offer larger storage capacities, making them great for bulk storage. Upright freezers are more convenient for frequent use and offer easier organization. Consider the space available and how often you’ll need access to the contents when making your decision.

Conclusion

Choosing the right freezer involves balancing factors like size, type, energy efficiency, and features with your storage needs and budget. Whether you opt for a chest freezer, upright freezer, or a commercial model, it’s important to select one that will provide consistent performance, efficiency, and long-term value. By considering the features discussed in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect freezer to to suit your home or business needs.

How to Choose the Best Freezer

When trying to figure out which type of freezer will work best, there are many factors to consider. Here’s a brief list of the some of the most important points to aid in the decision-making process.

Freezer Type

Start by thinking about what type of food you typically store in your freezer and, on average, how many times per week you will need access it. Try to image where all the food would go. If accessibility is a key factor, consider a freezer model with adjustable shelving or specialized storage compartments for different foods.

Freezer Size

The best way to choose the correct freezer size is to consider how much food you will need to store. Freezers come in different sizes. See “Freezer Capacity” below for more details.

Location

To determine if a particular freezer model you’re considering will fit in the space, simply measure the length, width and height of the area. Be sure to leave enough room in the back to plug the freezer in and a bit of space on each side so you can pull it out to clean behind it or service it when needed.

Additional Features

Freezers come with a whole host of additional options, such as a defrost setting, interior lighting an ice maker, adjustable shelving and more. Some models even convert to a refrigerator. Familiarize yourself with what’s available before investing in a new freezer.

Upright Freezer vs. Chest Freezer

When trying to decide between an upright freezer and a chest freezer (also known as a deep freezer), it helps to know a little bit about each. One of the most important points to think about is food access. While chest freezers will hold more food, their design makes it a bit more difficult to find food when compared with an upright freezer. Below are some additional points to consider for each type.

Best Deep Freezers

Deep freezers hold the most food per square foot. This type of freezer has door mounts along the back edge of the chest with a vertical swing for a tighter seal. Cold air stays low inside a chest freezer when the door is open and doesn’t escape as quickly as it does from upright freezers. Compared to other types of freezers, chest freezers are less likely to cause freezer burn.

Other Features

• One beneficial feature of chest freezers is the manual defrost drain. It’s typically found on the front for easy access and helps you defrost the freezer quickly and effortlessly.
• If you have a small household or don’t freeze much food, consider a small chest freezer or mini freezer. They’re useful if you find your refrigerator’s freezer won’t hold all your frozen groceries for the week or if you want to preserve summer produce to enjoy all winter long.
• If energy efficiency is a priority, look for a model that’s ENERGY STAR® certified.

It’s important to purchase the right power cord for any freezer or ice maker that you buy. Ensure that it’s long enough to reach the outlet. Don’t use an extension cord with these appliances.

Upright Freezers

You’ll have easy access to your food with an upright freezer. The door on an upright freezer opens horizontally, like a refrigerator door. These freezers have in-the-door storage and adjustable shelving, which creates more space for your food. Upright freezers have a much smaller footprint than chest freezers, making them perfect for a garage or small basement.

Other Features

• Consider an upright freezer that has a freezer lock to keep food secure and prevent children from opening it.
• If you want an upright freezer that’s energy efficient, look for models that are ENERGY STAR® certified.
• Concerned about power outages? Some freezers have an extra-tight seal that can keep food cold for up to two days after the electricity has gone out.

Freezer Capacity

Freezers come in four basic sizes: 

• Compact: 5 cubic feet
• Small: 6 to 9 cubic feet
• Medium: 12 to 18 cubic feet
• Large: 18 cubic feet or more

In general, a small or compact freezer provides plenty of storage for up to a three-person household. If you’re feeding a large family or often meal prep in advance, you may want a medium or large freezer. Consider the size of any large items you might need to freeze — like a turkey or a frozen pizza — to make sure they’ll fit in the freezer.

Ice Makers

Should you want a machine that solely makes ice, you can find freestanding ice makers in various sizes, from small personal models to large ones for commercial use. For energy-efficient ice makers, look for one with the logo indicating it’s ENERGY STAR® certified.

Best Freezers for Garages

So, what’s the best freezer type for a home garage? Both chest freezers and upright freezers work well in the area. Check the specifications on the freezer you plan to purchase to make sure it can perform in temperatures above and below room temperature. Consider average yearly temperature ranges in your area. An upright freezer takes up less horizontal space than a chest freezer.

Freezer Accessories

If a part on your freezer breaks or needs replacing, such as an air filter, a door seal, a thermostat, a shelving component or some other part, you can order replacements quickly and easily through Lowes.com, or ask one of our helpful associates at your local Lowe’s store for assistance.

Other Points to Consider

What are my food-shopping habits?

If you buy in bulk, an additional freezer is an excellent choice. 1 cubic foot of freezer space accommodates approximately 35 pounds of food. To help determine what size freezer you’ll need for your family, we suggest multiplying the number of people in your family by 2.5 cubic feet.

What are my food-preparation habits?

You’ll benefit from an extra freezer if you prepare and freeze foods when they’re fresh or in season. Farmers, gardeners and hunters can all benefit from additional freezer storage space.

How much space is available in my home?

Place your freezer in a convenient space that’s far from heat sources, including sunny windows, to maintain efficient operation. Consider the space you have available, as well as the width of doorways, to determine what size freezer you’re able to buy.

Freezer Installation Tips

• If you’re having your new freezer delivered, be sure to prepare the area for the day of delivery. Make sure the area is clear so that the delivery associate can easily access the space. You or a member of your family will need to plan to be home to sign for the delivery and let the delivery person in as well.
• Check the manufacturer’s specifications to see what type of electrical outlet your new freezer requires and what type of plug it has. Many new freezers have a 4-prong plug, but older homes are often equipped with a 3-prong outlet. Check to see if an adapter or a replacement cord is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’re some questions customers often have when looking for a new freezer.

What Is the Best Freezer Type for Long-term Storage?

Both a chest freezer and an upright freezer will work for long-term storage. To decide which type is best, consider the size needed, where the freezer will be located and what type of food accessibility features you need, such as shelving.

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