Installing a refrigerator is a major project that requires a lot of planning, budgeting, and foresight. You need to have a clear idea of what you are getting into before starting. If you’re not sure about how your new appliance will fit in your space or what kind of impact it will have on the aesthetics of your home, then you might want to slow down and consider looking at other options. If you're having problems with your current fridge, chances are there's probably something you could be doing better. Overly complicated designs, cheap materials, and poorly designed features can collectively result in one dissatisfied customer or too many unhappy neighbors. Installing a new refrigerator is no different; here are some common mistakes that should never be made when installing a fridge.
Not doing your research first
This is a mistake that both seasoned and new refrigerator installers alike have made. You need to understand your local building codes and the current safety regulations in your area before you begin the project. It is important to research the manufacturer’s recommended features and specs ( Dimensions, Weight, etc.) to make sure they are accurate. Many times there is no right answer to this question; it is just a matter of you not knowing where to start. If you are unclear about what your local building codes will allow, or if you want to make sure to include every possible feature that is allowed, then you will need to contact your local building department. You may want to hire a professional to help you with this, or you can do it yourself using the online Building & Safety’s Consumer Guide to Refrigerators and Freezers. You should also read local newspaper articles or visit several refrigerator installers in your area to get a sense of what is popular.
Deficient specifications
Deficient specifications are the root of many problems when it comes to installing a refrigerator. A defective refrigerator will likely not run properly, have the proper temperature, or be quiet when it is needed. Make sure you understand the specifications of the model you plan to purchase and make sure that it meets or exceeds them. If you are uncertain about the regulations in your area, call your local code enforcement agency. They can tell you what is and is not allowed in your area and can also help you find a qualified engineer who can help you with your project. The frequency of checks and balances in the construction of today’s refrigerators is unprecedented. This, coupled with the lack of regulation and oversight, has led to a huge number of “bad” designs and materials being used in many modern refrigerators. If you are unsure about the regulations in your area, or if you want to make sure to include every possible feature that is allowed, then you will need to contact your local building department. You may want to hire a professional to help you with this, or you can do it yourself using the online Building & Safety’s Consumer Guide to Refrigerators and Freezers. You should also read local newspaper articles or visit several refrigerator installers in your area to get a sense of what is popular.
Deficient specifications for operators
Operators of today’s refrigerators are very different from previous generations. They are often smaller, more sophisticated, and require more monitoring and control. It is important to understand the specifications for the operator to make the right choice for your application. Some refrigerators only allow for three possible states: cold, cold cong, and coldest. This is great for cold weather applications, but if you want to store food that is not at its coldest for long periods, you will need to find an alternative model. The best way to ensure that you get a correct reading is to use an app such as the ones available at refrigerators.com. These apps let you enter specific information such as the temperature you want to read, the time of the day you want to conduct the reading, and the purpose of the reading.