Top 5 Things to Know When Updating Your Refrigerator

Thu Oct 23 2025

Refrigeration

Replacing your refrigerator isn’t something most homeowners do often. With an average lifespan of 10-15 years, the decision to update comes around only a few times in your life, and when it does, the options can feel overwhelming. Today’s refrigerators come with advanced technology, improved energy efficiency, and designs that can completely transform how you use your kitchen.

If you’re starting to look for a new model, you might be asking: what should I know before updating my refrigerator? This guide will walk you through the five most important considerations, from sizing and layout to features and style, so you can make an informed choice.

1. Measure Your Space Carefully

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is assuming any refrigerator will fit where the old one was. But not all fridges are the same size, and with today’s variety of configurations, getting the right fit is more complex than it sounds.

Key Things to Measure

Width, height, and depth: Always measure the cabinet space where your refrigerator will go, as well as the surrounding clearance.
Door swing: Consider how far the doors open—especially important for French door or side-by-side models.
Counter depth vs. standard depth: Counter-depth refrigerators align with cabinetry for a seamless look, while standard-depth models usually offer more storage but stick out further.

Accurate measurements help avoid costly returns or installation issues. If you’re remodeling, think about future needs, your new refrigerator may be larger than your current one.

2. Decide on the Right Configuration

Refrigerators aren’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right configuration impacts not just how the appliance looks but how convenient it is for your daily life.

Popular Refrigerator Styles

Top Mount Refrigerators: Classic, budget-friendly, and reliable. Best for small kitchens or apartments.
Bottom Freezer Refrigerators: Keeps fresh food at eye level, making it easier to access.
French Door Refrigerators: A modern favorite, combining wide shelves with a bottom freezer. Many include advanced features like dual evaporators.
Side-by-Side Refrigerators: Great for organization, with freezer and refrigerator sections side by side.
Built-In Refrigerators: Seamlessly integrated into cabinetry for a luxury look.

Think about how your family uses the fridge. Do you cook often? Do you need quick freezer access? These questions help determine which style makes sense.

3. Consider Energy Efficiency

Refrigerators run 24/7, making them one of the biggest energy users in your home. Fortunately, modern models are much more efficient than older units, which can save you significantly on energy bills over time.

What to Look For

ENERGY STAR Certification: Indicates the refrigerator meets strict efficiency standards.
LED Lighting: Uses less energy and produces less heat than traditional bulbs.
Inverter Compressors: Adjust cooling power as needed, reducing energy waste.

An energy-efficient refrigerator may cost more upfront, but it pays off in long-term savings and environmental benefits.

4. Explore New Features & Technology

Refrigerators have come a long way in recent years. While basic cooling is still the main function, today’s appliances offer features that make everyday life easier.

Popular Refrigerator Features

Smart Technology: Wi-Fi connectivity, touchscreen controls, and compatibility with apps. Some models let you check inventory remotely or receive maintenance alerts.
Dual Cooling Systems: Keep fridge and freezer sections at optimal humidity levels.
Adjustable Shelving: Flexible storage solutions for large items or frequent reorganizers.
Water and Ice Dispensers: Convenient, but consider water line requirements.
Air Filtration Systems: Help reduce odors and preserve freshness.

These features not only add convenience but also support better food preservation, which saves money by reducing waste.

5. Think About Style and Finish

Your refrigerator isn’t just functional, it’s also one of the largest design elements in your kitchen. Choosing the right finish can elevate the look of your space.

Common Refrigerator Finishes

Stainless Steel: Timeless, sleek, and matches most kitchen appliances.
Black Stainless Steel: A modern twist with a smudge-resistant finish.
White or Black: Classic options that work well in traditional kitchens.
Custom Panel-Ready: Lets the fridge blend seamlessly into cabinetry for a built-in look.

Matching your refrigerator to your kitchen design ensures it enhances, rather than disrupts, the aesthetic.

Featured Refrigerators Available at Silica

LG Counter‑Depth French‑Door Refrigerator (Model #:LRFLC2716S): This LG model delivers full interior capacity in a counter-depth profile, letting you upgrade without the fridge protruding beyond your cabinetry. Thanks to multi-airflow cooling and a smart control panel, it maintains consistent temperatures across every shelf.

Frigidaire Top Mount Refrigerator (Model #:FFTR2045VS): The Frigidaire model offers smart airflow with its EvenTemp Cooling System to keep food fresher and cooler uniformly. Its roomy door bins and full-width glass freezer shelf make storage flexible, ideal for families needing space in a compact footprint.

Whirlpool Bottom Freezer Refrigerator (Model #:WRB329DMBM): The Whirlpool bottom freezer refrigerator features SpillGuard glass shelves that help contain leaks and spills for quick cleanup. Its Accu-Chill temperature management system and Adaptive Defrost ensure optimal food preservation, while the FreshFlow produce preserver extends the freshness of fruits and vegetables.

Additional Tips When Updating Your Refrigerator

Set a Budget: Prices vary widely, so establish your range before shopping.
Plan for Delivery: Some refrigerators are large and may not fit through narrow hallways or doorways.
Check Warranty Coverage: Extended warranties may be worthwhile for high-end models. Most refrigerators come with 1-year manufacturer warranties and possibly more for higher-end models. Silica proudly offers our own 2, 3, and 5-year extended warranties.
Think Long-Term: Consider how long you’ll be in your home and how your needs may change over time.

Update Your Refrigerator With Ease at Silica

Updating your refrigerator is more than just replacing an appliance, it’s about choosing a model that matches your lifestyle, saves energy, and enhances your kitchen design. At Silica, we offer a wide selection of top brands, expert advice, and professional installation services to help you find the perfect fit.

We also offer financing options to help you access the right refrigerator that fits your needs and budget. Visit one of our appliance stores today in Fond du Lac, Beaver Dam, and Watertown, WI, to update your refrigerator with peace of mind.

FAQs: Things to Know When Updating Your Refrigerator

Will Silica haul away my old fridge when I replace it with a new one?

Yes! Silica will happily take away your old refrigerator for recycling and disposal when installing your new refrigerator.

How often should I replace my refrigerator?

Most refrigerators last 10-15 years. If yours is older, inefficient, or frequently breaking down, it may be time to upgrade.

What size refrigerator do I need for my family?

A general rule of thumb is 4-6 cubic feet of storage per adult. Larger families or frequent entertainers may need more.

Does an ENERGY STAR refrigerator really save money?

Yes. ENERGY STAR models use up to 15% less energy than non-certified models, which can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings over the appliance’s lifetime.

What’s the most reliable refrigerator brand?

Reliability varies by model, but many homeowners trust brands like GE, Whirlpool, Bosch, and KitchenAid for durability and performance.

Can I install a refrigerator myself?

It is always highly recommended to have professional installation done for any appliances. Self-installation of refrigerators runs the risks of not fitting through door clearances, damaging your home bringing it in, the weight and balance of full size refrigerators, etc. Let the experts at Silica do installation for you.