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    Are Side by Side Refrigerators Good?

    by The Experts at Idler’s Home

    stainless steel side by side refrigerator in kitchen

    At a Glance:

    What is a Side by Side Refrigerator?

    Why Own a Side By Side Refrigerator?

    Side By Side Refrigerator Vs. Other Styles

    Is a Side by Side Refrigerator High Quality?

    Top Brands for Side by Side Refrigerators

    Side by Side Refrigerators We Recommend

    How to Organize Side by Side Refrigerators

    Tips About How to Find the Right Refrigerator

    Why Trust Us?

    Before introducing French door refrigerators and their numerous forms, American consumers preferred side-by-side refrigerators. However, a Consumer Reports survey revealed that 64 percent of new refrigerators bought by CR members between the start of 2020 and the first half of 2021 were French-door models. Side-by-sides have the second-highest share, with only 20 percent of sales.

    However, the case for a side-by-side refrigerator with tall, narrow compartments reserved for frozen and fresh food is still made with compelling grounds.

    Do you intend to get a new refrigerator, then? These top-rated side-by-side refrigerators are dependable, creative, and designed to meet your family’s needs. Read on to discover more about these refrigerators and to see our staff at Idler’s Home’s top suggestions for these refrigeration setups.

    Explore Side by Side Refrigerator Deals

    Discover side by side refrigerators from today’s best brands including Frigidaire and Samsung!

    Side by Side Refrigerators

    What is a Side by Side Refrigerator?

    open side by side refrigerator

    When it comes to refrigerators, the side by side configuration is all the rave. These models come equipped with two vertical doors, with one side holding your fresh food while the other serves as a freezer. The best part? Easy access to both sections makes grocery organization and retrieval a breeze.

    With customizable shelves, built-in water and ice dispensers, and sleek finishes, side by side refrigerators provide both practicality and style to your kitchen. With a wide range of prices between $800 and $2,500, a side-by-side refrigerator can fit any budget.

    Why Own a Side By Side Refrigerator?

    Side by side refrigerators have gained popularity due to their numerous benefits and features that cater to various needs.

    • They are especially favored by families and individuals who value accessibility in their kitchens.

    • The side by side design allows for easy visibility and quick access to both fresh and frozen foods, making meal planning and preparation a breeze.

    • These refrigerators often come with adjustable shelves, door bins, and drawers, allowing for flexible storage configurations.

    Side By Side Refrigerator Vs. Other Styles

    When considering different types of refrigerators, it’s helpful to compare the side by side design with other popular options like French door, bottom freezer, top freezer, and column refrigerators.

    Side by side refrigerators offer a convenient layout with separate freezers and refrigerator compartments. This makes organization and visibility of food items easier, allowing quick access to fresh and frozen goods. They often feature adjustable shelves and door bins, providing flexibility for storage needs.

    • On the other hand, French door refrigerators prioritize spaciousness in the refrigerator section. With double doors for the refrigerator and a bottom freezer, they offer wide shelves and ample storage for fresh food items.

    • Bottom freezer refrigerators place the refrigerator section at eye level, providing easy access to commonly used items, while the freezer compartment is conveniently located at the bottom.

    • Top freezer refrigerators, a more traditional option, are compact and affordable. They suit smaller kitchens or those with limited space, offering a straightforward layout with the freezer on top and the refrigerator below.

    • Column refrigerators provide modular flexibility by allowing you to customize and integrate different units according to your specific needs. This offers versatility in terms of size and layout, allowing for a personalized refrigerator configuration.

    Ultimately, the choice between different refrigerator types depends on personal preferences, kitchen layout, storage requirements, and the desired balance between freezer and refrigerator space. It’s important to consider your specific needs and priorities when selecting the most suitable refrigerator type for your home.

    Is a Side by Side Refrigerator High Quality?

    One question that may arise is whether refrigerators are worth the investment side by side. Well, the answer is yes — side by side refrigerators are definitely good quality.

    • They offer ample space, are stylish, and fit well into many kitchens.

    • The design splits the fridge and freezer on either side, making it easy to access all items.

    • They often come with great features such as ice and water dispensers, adjustable shelves, and temperature controls.

    Top Brands for Side by Side Refrigerators

    Side by side refrigerators are produced by many famous brand names that manufacture them in different designs, features, and finishes. Let’s look at some of our favorites.

    1. KitchenAidKitchenAid refrigerators feature adjustable shelves, humidity-controlled crisper drawers, and an exterior ice and water dispenser. KitchenAid has a classic look that is appropriate for many kitchen styles.

    2. CafeCafe is a newer brand that has quickly gained popularity thanks to its high-quality appliances. Their side by side refrigerators feature a customizable interior with adjustable shelves and bins. They offer a popular new white side by side refrigerator.

    3. SamsungSamsung is known for producing high-tech home appliances, and their side by side refrigerators offer plenty of features to back that up. They also feature a door-in-door design, which allows you to easily access frequently used items without opening the entire refrigerator door.

    4. GEGE is a trusted brand when it comes to home appliances, and their side by side refrigerators are no exception. Their refrigerators feature adjustable shelves, LED lighting, and a built-in ice and water dispenser, such as the GE side by side refrigerator.

    Side by Side Refrigerators We Recommend

    When it comes to picking your future side by side refrigerators, there are a lot of styles, features, and brands to choose from. That is why our experts at Idler’s Home have provided some fridge inspiration just for you.

    KitchenAid® 22.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel with PrintShield™ Finish Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    KitchenAid® 22.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel with PrintShield™ Finish Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    This impressive Kitchenaid side by side refrigerator boasts the Preserva® Food Care System, which utilizes two independent cooling systems to maintain optimal freshness. Thanks to the FreshFlow™ Air Filter and Produce Preserver, unwanted odors are minimized, and your fruits and vegetables stay crisp and flavorful for longer. With its counter-depth design and fingerprint-resistant PrintShield™ Finish, this refrigerator adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen while remaining effortlessly practical.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    22.6 cuff Refrigerator

    "Runs like a clock, excellent water disperser and ice maker. If you take care of it will last longer. I am happy I purchased it."

    Whirlpool® 20.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Counter Depth Side-By-Side Refrigerator

    Whirlpool® 20.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Counter Depth Side-By-Side Refrigerator

    The Whirlpool side by side refrigerator has a counter depth design that maximizes kitchen space, while the convenient exterior ice and water dispenser, equipped with EveryDrop™ filtration, ensures clean and refreshing drinks. With the In-Door-Ice® storage, you gain an additional full shelf in the freezer, allowing for more efficient organization. The Accu-Chill™ temperature management system guarantees rapid cooling, maintaining your family’s favorite foods in their ideal environment.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    Very good looking

    “We are enjoying our new fridge. It’s very easy to see all the things you have. No more digging around looking for something. It’s also very attractive in our kitchen. I had a minor issue with a tray and customer service was great. A very pleasant experience.”

    Frigidaire Gallery® 22.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Frigidaire Gallery® 22.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator 

    Elevate your kitchen with the Frigidaire Gallery side by side refrigerator. As a leader in energy-efficient appliances, Frigidaire delivers exceptional quality. With 100 ways to keep your food organized, everything is easily accessible. The humidity-controlled adjustable Crisper Drawers provide flexibility, allowing you to stack them or arrange them side-by-side according to your preferences.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    Great Refrigerator

    “We have had this refrigerator for 10 years and have had no problems. We just recently bought the same one again and moved our old one out to the garage. Very reliable!”

    JennAir® 25.5 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    JennAir® 25.5 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Inspired by volcanic glass, the JennAir side by side refrigerator's Obsidian interior creates a high-contrast and visually stunning display for your food. The Precision Temperature Management™ System ensures precise temperature control for optimal preservation. This black side by side refrigerator has a fully flushed and integrated design, seamlessly blends into your kitchen decor for a sleek and polished look.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    Still beautiful

    “Excellent Refrigerator. Very sleek and functional. The adjustable shelving is sturdy. The stainless steel door does not show the fingerprints like my previous refrigerator. Excellent product, would recommend to a friend.”

    GE® 25.3 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Side by Side Refrigerator

    GE® 25.3 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Side by Side Refrigerator

    Upgrade your kitchen with the GE side by side refrigerator. Enjoy flexible organization with edge-to-edge shelves and adjustable clear door shelves that free up valuable space. Keep your produce organized in the sealed storage drawers, and access clean water and ice conveniently from the external dispenser. The electronic display allows for precise temperature settings, while the freezer offers additional storage options with a slide-out basket and bonus shelf.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    I love the inside snd [and] how i can see everything!

    “I am so happy with this refrigerator. The narrow with is perfect.”

    LG 27.2 Cu. Ft. PrintProof™ Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    LG 27.2 Cu. Ft. PrintProof™ Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    The LG side by side refrigerator’s contemporary design features flat panels and discreet pocket handles, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Enjoy the convenience of the easy-touch dispenser for chilled filtered water, cubed, or crushed ice. The slim, in-door ice maker maximizes freezer shelf space while providing ample ice for your needs.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    Very roomy!

    “This fridge is huge and has lots of room which is much needed with kids.”

    Monogram 20.2 Cu. Ft. Custom Panel Smart Built In Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Monogram 20.2 Cu. Ft. Custom Panel Smart Built In Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    This GE Monogram side by side refrigerator offers a sleek flush inset installation, seamlessly blending with your cabinetry. Its advanced temperature management system ensures even air distribution throughout the refrigerator, maintaining optimal freshness. The climate-control drawer allows for customized temperature settings for perishable foods, express-chilling beverages, and express-thawing meats.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    Looks good in my kitchen

    “The Monogram refrigerator is the perfect size for our use and space.”

    Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Standard Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Standard Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Experience the Samsung side by side refrigerator with the Family Hub™ feature, bringing convenience and connectivity to your kitchen. The modern look design adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen decor. The in-door ice maker provides easy access to ice without sacrificing shelf space.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    Great fridge

    “This is a great refrigerator looks and functionality. Love the hub, lots of space, quiet. I can look in the fridge from my phone at the store to see what I need. The recipe ideas are great. This thing is just awesome. They are hard to find with the black stainless right now.”

    Amana® 24.6 Cu. Ft. Black Side-By-Side Refrigerator

    Amana® 24.6 Cu. Ft. Black Side-By-Side Refrigerator

    Simplify your food storage with the Amana side by side refrigerator. The convenient ice and water dispenser, equipped with the EveryDrop™ Water Filter, allows you to easily access fresh water. The electronic temperature controls make setting and maintaining the desired temperature effortless. The gallon door storage bins also provide a convenient space to store larger items like juice cartons, ensuring they are within easy reach.

    Crosley® 23.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side by Side Refrigerator

    Crosley® 23.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side by Side Refrigerator

    Experience the convenience of the Crosley side by side refrigerator, featuring LED lighting that illuminates your favorite foods for easy retrieval. The adjustable slide-out, spill-proof glass shelves offer flexibility and make cleaning up spills effortless.

    Café™ 28.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Smart Built In Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Café™ 28.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Smart Built In Side-by-Side Refrigerator

    Make a statement in your kitchen with the Cafe side by side refrigerator. Its exceptional style and remarkable features set it apart, becoming the focal point of your kitchen. Enjoy the hands-free convenience of the Autofill button, effortlessly filling containers. The interior is illuminated by LED lighting, ensuring that every item is easily visible and accessible.

    Reviews

    One Review States:

    "Nothing beats having a brand new appliance! It's bright, spacious, and we love the ice dispenser. The cubes are cute and smaller than the average cube size which is great. All the shelves have plenty of space between."

    How to Organize Side by Side Refrigerators

    fridge organization infographic

    Arranging your groceries, leftovers, snacks, and drink doesn’t have to be a hassle; instead, check out these tips for side by side fridge organization.

    1. Start with a Clean Slate

    The first step in organizing your side by side refrigerator is to start with a clean slate. Wipe down all the shelves and drawers thoroughly with warm soapy water before replacing everything. This will help eliminate any unpleasant odors and simplify organizing your fridge.

    2. Use Clear Containers

    Using clear containers or bins can help you keep your side by side refrigerator tidy. They make it easy to group items together, and you can easily see what’s inside without having to dig through the entire fridge. Additionally, using labeled containers can help remind you of what items you have and when they need to be consumed.

    3. Utilize the Door

    The door of a side by side refrigerator is often overlooked, but it can be a great place to store items that don’t need to be kept cold.

    4. Store by Temperature

    It’s important to store your food at the appropriate temperature to ensure it stays fresh. In a side by side refrigerator, the top shelves are typically warmer than the bottom shelves. You can store items like meat, fish, and poultry on the bottom shelf, which need a colder temperature.

    Tips About How to Find the Right Refrigerator

    To find your ideal refrigerator, take a look below at a few things to consider before buying.  

    Tip 1: Consider the Size of Your Kitchen

    Measure the space available in your kitchen and consider the width, depth, and height required for the refrigerator. Don’t forget to check if the fridge door opens in the right direction.

    Tip 2: Determine Your Storage Needs

     If you frequently buy in bulk, you may need a freezer with more space. If you entertain guests often, a fridge with a built-in ice maker and water dispenser may be a good addition.

    Tip 3: Look for Energy Efficiency

    Refrigerators can be big energy consumers, so it is essential to look for energy-efficient models. The Energy Star rating system can help you identify efficient refrigerators.

    Tip 4: Consider the Features You Need

    Refrigerators come with a variety of features, from smart capabilities to adjustable shelves. Some models have a door-in-door feature, allowing quick access to frequently used items.

    Side-by-side fridges are a fantastic choice for modern households. The spacious design, convenient organization, and advanced features make storing and accessing food a breeze.

    Explore Idler’s Home for a wide selection of high-quality side-by-side fridges. Upgrade your kitchen and enjoy the convenience they bring. Shop at Idler’s Home today for a one-of-a-kind refrigerator shopping experience.

    Why Trust Idler’s Home?

    At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and with five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to help you make the vision you have for your home a reality.

    Shop Side By Side Refrigerators at Idler’s

    Envision the possibilities for your home and shop side by side refrigerators online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you find your side by side refrigerator — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!

    Learn More:4 Best GE Cafe Refrigerators + Reviews