How Freezers For Outbuildings Altered My Life For The Better
Chest Freezers For Outbuildings
A chest freezer allows you to keep food items that you don't use all year round and help reduce trips to the supermarket. It also makes cooking in batches more convenient.
Find models that are specifically designed for this kind of setting. Also, choose one that has wire storage baskets to keep your food organized.
Size
Most often located in outbuildings and garages, chest freezers are ideal for those who love to stockpile bargains that can be frozen. They are usually cheaper than upright freezers, and offer more storage (around 5 bags) for a lesser cost. This Currys own-brand model, for example is a good value, with a a counterbalanced lid that is easier to open than most. It also has an A+ rating for energy efficiency which means it's cheap to run.
For those who wish to make use of a chest freezer in their outbuildings, search for models that have wire storage baskets that hang over the rim. These baskets will keep everyday items, like chopped vegetables, out of the mess of frozen food. They are especially helpful if you're freezing a lot of meat, because they can be difficult to reach when placed on the top of the freezer.
Because of their size and footprint, many chest freezers are put in the garage or basement to conserve kitchen space. However, more and more manufacturers are producing freezers specifically designed to withstand the extreme temperature fluctuations of an outbuilding or garage. These models are advertised as "garage ready" and can withstand temperatures as low as -22degC.
The size of freezer you buy will also be determined by the space you have available, as well as budget. There are plenty of fantastic freezer deals available however it is essential that you select the right one for your requirements.
Consider buying a freezer with the high temperature alarm in the event that you intend to store it in an outbuilding or garage. This feature will notify you if your freezer has exceeded the safe temperature range. This can occur if, for instance, you forget to shut the door after you've filled it with food items. Also, if it becomes warmer in the course of defrosting process. A lock on the freezer will prevent unauthorized access. These features may seem like a small consideration, but they can make all the difference in the end.
Convenience
Addition of an extra freezer in your home can help you save money on groceries Buy up items that are on sale and cook meals in large quantities to use later. Despite their size, chest freezers can be tucked away in small spaces in the garage or outbuilding, and are ideal for those who have limited storage.
Many people are reluctant to invest in chest freezers, fearing that it will be too big and difficult to get into or manage. However, there are many options that are designed with user-friendly features, and come in different sizes. This Northair chest-freezer is one of the smallest on our list, but it can hold plenty of food items. It also has an easy lid to open and counterbalanced so you aren't tempted to close it accidentally as you go through its contents.
This GE model is another excellent option. It can withstand temperatures that exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, it offers the most storage of any freezer in this list. The door can be opened wide and locked. The LED light inside assists you in finding your frozen treats.
They are simpler to arrange and look like refrigerators, but may not be able handle external temperatures and chest freezers. Certain models, like this one from Whynter, have bins that help with organization and allow you to customize the storage of your food items to maximize capacity.
If you're considering a standing freezer, consider one that comes with removable wire storage baskets to take everyday items out of the way of more bulky items, such as open bags of frozen vegetables or oven chips. Basket-freezers are simpler to locate and can handle external temperatures better than freezers that have shelves. Certain brands, such as Beko and Russell Hobbs, (a Currys brand) have freezers that are safe to use down to -15C, making them ideal for cold garages or outbuildings. It is crucial to confirm the warranty of the manufacturer since it might not cover freezers kept in areas that are not heated.
Energy efficiency
A chest freezer is the most energy efficient option of all freezer types. Its airtight seal helps preserve cold air and lowers utility bills. In contrast, single-door freezers suffer from leakage that causes their compressors to work harder to keep an even temperature. Many chest freezers have low-frost technology which reduces the frequency of defrosting and reduces the cost of energy.
A chest freezer can also help you save energy by being better insulated than upright models. This is crucial especially if it's stored in a garage or in another location that could be very hot.
Chest freezers are just as practical and accessible as upright models in terms of storage. Be aware that you'll need to bend and reach inside them to get food items out, so these appliances aren't ideal for those who have mobility problems. The majority of chest freezers have to be manually defrosted. It is necessary to unplug it, open it, and let the ice melt. If that sounds like an inconvenience then you should look for models equipped with wheels or drains built-in.
It's wise to choose an appliance that uses less energy, like chest freezers, since freezers are known to be high-energy consumers. There is an annual consumption amount, usually expressed in kWh, for the majority of models on their energy labels or product manuals.
It is important to know the climate class of a chest freezer before you purchase. For instance, a freezer that is classified as class SN can store frozen food with temperatures of up to -10 degrees Celsius. This makes it a great choice for a garage, or an outbuilding.
It's worth exploring the many options available for a chest freezer for your outbuilding. You're bound to find one that suits your needs, no matter whether you need to store ice cream in the summer or even freeze meals in advance for a busy family. Also, with a energy-efficient design and plenty of space in the freezer, a chest freezer is an investment worth it.
Maintenance
It doesn't matter which freezer you pick. It is essential that it is placed in a place where it is easily accessible. The garage or the outbuilding are great options. Be aware that chest freezers could suffer damage if exposed to temperatures that fall outside of their recommended range.
It's a good thing to know that more and more manufacturers are becoming aware of this issue and are making their products more suited to garages and outbuildings. Look for models that are "garage optimized." These freezers are built with specialized compressors, thick insulation and triple-sealed gaskets, which aid in maintaining a perfect internal temperature, even in extreme cold or extreme heat. They usually include "garage ready" in the product name or list it as an option in their specifications.
Both upright and chest freezers require maintenance in order to continue working properly. If you decide on a chest freezer that requires manual defrost, it's going to require regular cleaning of ice in order to prevent the appliance from frozing over. Upright freezers on the contrary, are typically self-defrosting. They also have fewer parts that require maintenance over time.
To allow adequate ventilation, freezers must be at least six inches away from other appliances or walls. Additionally, they require an inch clearance behind them to be swept or cleaned if needed. All freezers must be checked regularly to ensure that the door seal is intact and does not show signs of wear and tear.
It is also recommended to clean the condenser coils of your freezer freestanding as well as its cooling fan on a regular basis. This will prevent dust hair, pet hair and lint accumulation on the freezer, which may cause it to work harder. Be sure to disconnect the freezer prior to cleaning, and always make use of a long-handled bristle broom and vacuum cleaner that is compatible with freezers. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives, or household cleaners that could harm the freezer's interior. Before performing any maintenance on a freezer, make sure you read the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
