Top freezer vs. bottom freezer refrigerators: what's the difference?
With so many configuration styles to choose from, picking the right fridge for your home can seem daunting. If you’re stuck between top and bottom freezer refrigerator styles, understanding the benefits of each design can help make your decision easier. Use this guide to learn more about top freezer and bottom freezer refrigerators to discover which model is right for you.
What is a top freezer refrigerator?
A top freezer refrigerator, also known as a top mount refrigerator, is a well-known style. This configuration’s main feature is a cabinet-style freezer compartment located above the refrigerator section of the appliance that typically includes shelves and racks for your frozen items.
Top freezer fridge pros
Traditional design that can fit with a variety of kitchen styles
Provides easy access to your family’s favorite frozen foods
Excellent option for smaller kitchens
- Offers ample refrigerator storage
Top freezer fridge cons
Large door clearances require more open space in front of the appliance
Accessing fresh items on lower shelves requires bending
Water and ice dispenser options may not be available
Shop Whirlpool® top freezer refrigerators
Whirlpool brand offers a selection of top freezer refrigerators designed to help manage the storage of your favorite frozen and refrigerated groceries.
What is a bottom freezer refrigerator?
Bottom mount refrigerators have freezer compartments at the very bottom of the appliance. These models offer either cabinet or drawer-style freezer doors, with a cabinet-style refrigerator door. This style puts fresh ingredients closer to eye level for easy access. Like top freezer options, these models often take up minimal floor space.
Bottom freezer fridge pros
Many models offer built-in ice makers
Modern design can help to give your kitchen an updated feel
Drawer-style bottom freezers allow for a bird’s eye view of your frozen items
Refrigerator compartment reduces the need to bend or crouch to reach items
Bottom freezer fridge cons
Bending is required to access frozen items
Cost upfront can be higher depending on the model
Lifting heavy frozen foods from a lower position can be challenging
Differences between a bottom freezer vs. top freezer refrigerator
The primary difference between a bottom freezer refrigerator and a top freezer refrigerator is the location of the refrigerator and freezer compartments. A bottom freezer refrigerator has the fresh food compartment located at eye level, while a top mounted fridge positions the freezer at eye level instead.
Another difference between the two refrigerator styles is overall cost. Bottom freezer refrigerators typically sit at a higher price point compared to top freezer fridges due to the modern design and large capacity options.
Should I choose a top freezer or bottom freezer for my kitchen?
Whether a top or bottom mount refrigerator is the right choice for you depends on several factors, such as budget, space limitations and personal preferences. After school snacks can be easily reached by small children as bottom mount refrigerators help keep your kid’s favorite foods organized at eye level.
If you live with elderly family members, a top mount refrigerator might be a better fit as lifting heavy frozen items from a bottom freezer typically requires more strength and bending.
Shop Whirlpool® bottom freezer refrigerators
Browse bottom freezer refrigerators from Whirlpool brand that are designed to provide effortless access to your staple foods. With a refrigerator compartment located at eye level and layered storage in the bottom freezer, this refrigerator style helps keep your family’s fresh foods and frozen dishes organized and ready for mealtime.
Learn more about refrigerators with Whirlpool brand
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