1. Upright Freezers
The most economical freezer is the chest freezer. It is called a chest freezer because it is usually shaped like a large box or crate with a hinged lid that opens upward. Because of the lid, chest freezers require ample space and plenty of headroom.
Upright freezers range in size from small 2.1 cubic feet models to commercial models that are over 40 cubic feet. The most common place to find an upright freezer is in a garage, utility room, or house basement, as it tends to be a large piece of equipment. The large, boxy size of an upright freezer is perfect for storing bulky items that wouldn't normally fit in a refrigerator freezer. This space-saving option frees up space in the refrigerator freezer for convenience foods.
Chest freezers don't have fans, which can restrict air circulation and cause unstable temperatures, but as long as it can maintain sub-zero temperatures, it won't have a negative impact on food. Because warm air rises and cold air sinks, people often store meat and other larger items in the lower part of the freezer so they stay firmly frozen and preserved for months. Most chest freezers have baskets to provide a more organized division of space. Smaller items, such as bagged frozen vegetables and pre-cooked foods, can be stored in them for easy access.
2. Drawer freezers
Drawer freezers are often used in larger kitchens or gourmet kitchens, providing convenience for cooks who need to have certain items on hand when preparing food.
Drawer freezers come in a variety of finishes, such as stainless steel finishes to match other appliances, or can be customized to blend in with cabinets.
Many drawer freezers have cabinet heights to fit seamlessly into existing cabinets, and some even have finished tops to expand countertop space in any room they are being used in.
3. Upright freezers
Upright freezers may cost a little more than chest freezers, but the convenience they offer makes the extra cost well worth it.
Whether placed in the main kitchen or in the garage, utility, or basement, upright freezers are great for freezing foods that need to be easily accessible. With an upright freezer, there is no need to bend over to rummage through piles of frozen food. Since the style of the freezer is more like a refrigerator, it's easy to spend more time opening the door and browsing the shelves, which can waste energy, but the potential for organization of the shelves can reduce this.
Upright freezers often have automatic defrost features, which makes them easier to maintain than upright freezers, and they are also easier to clean.
4. Portable Freezers
The advent of small portable freezers makes it possible to transport perishable items without the mess and inconvenience of filling the cooler with ice.
Portable freezers can run on AC or DC power, or both, and some even come with a cord that can be powered by a car cigarette lighter socket. This makes food storage for picnics, boating, tailgating parties, and other outdoor activities safer, more convenient, and less likely to spoil.
With a wide variety of freezer sizes and styles available today, it's easy to find the best freezer for your needs. Whether you're looking for a place to store meat and other food you buy in bulk or want to transport frozen food on camping trips, there's a freezer that will meet your needs.
