Stainless steel French door refrigerators are the hot trend in kitchen appliances, offering both style and outstanding functionality. With their aesthetically pleasing exteriors and expansive storage capacity, these refrigerators are ideal if you meal prep, entertain often, or simply need ample space for your family’s food storage.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide the inside scoop on the top stainless steel French door refrigerator models on the market, what features to look for when selecting one, how to care for it properly, answers to frequently asked questions, and expert tips for maximizing your refrigerator’s performance.
Size Matters – Choosing the Right Capacity
When deciding which stainless steel French door refrigerator is right for your needs, the first factor to consider is capacity. These refrigerators are available in a range of sizes, from compact units with around 25 cubic feet of space to massive builds with 36+ cubic feet.
So how do you determine the right capacity for your household? Here are some general guidelines:
- 25-30 cubic feet – Ideal for smaller families or if you have limited space. Provides ample storage for 1-2 people.
- 30-36 cubic feet – Perfect for average-sized families of 3-5 people. Allows for extra space needed for leftovers and bigger shops.
- 36+ cubic feet – For large families or those who entertain frequently. The extra capacity gives you plenty of room to store party platters, sheet cakes, overflow groceries.
Take measurements of the space you have available for the refrigerator, while accounting for some extra clearance. Also consider your typical grocery hauls and storage needs when choosing the right size.
Configuration is Key
In addition to overall capacity, the configuration and layout of your French door fridge are important factors to weigh.
- Full versus counter depth – Counter depth models don’t extend as far into your kitchen but have less interior room. Full depth has maximum storage but protrudes further from cabinets.
- Door swing – Which direction will the doors open most conveniently in your kitchen layout? Measure to ensure the swing allows for easy access.
- Through-the-door dispensers – Built-in water/ice dispensers provide easy access but often require hookup to your home’s water line. Dispenser-free models offer flexibility.
- Drawer placement – Many models have bottom freezer drawers, while some have top freezer. Decide which you’d prefer based on frequency of access.
Outfitting Your Fridge with Convenient Features
Now let’s explore some of the stand-out features of today’s stainless steel French door fridges that enhance functionality.
- Auto defrost – Models with auto (or frost-free) defrost are convenient since the fridge defrosts itself, no manual chipping of ice required!
- Interior ice and water dispenser – Some models have built-in dispensers inside the refrigerator compartment, eliminating the need for plumbing hookup.
- Humidity controlled crispers – Designed to keep produce fresh and crunchy by regulating airflow and trapping moisture.
- Temperature controlled zones – Enjoy features like beverage chillers that allow you to fine tune temps for specific foods’ needs.
- Adjustable shelving and storage – Look for models with shelves and drawers that can be shifted around or removed to accommodate all your food items.
- Smart apps – High end models offer app control, notifications and diagnostics through wifi connectivity. Look into compatible smart features if desired.
Maintaining Ideal Temperature Settings
A key aspect of any fridge is keeping your food properly chilled or frozen. Here’s an overview of temperature considerations:
- Dual evaporators – These prevent flavor transfer by using separate systems to cool the refrigerator and freezer compartments.
- Precise digital controls – Allow you to set exact temp settings and make quick adjustments as needed.
- Fast cooling modes – When you’re adding a large grocery haul or warm dishes, you can quick chill the fridge with fast cool settings.
- Sabbath or vacation modes – Custom modes that keep the lights off/on and maintain ideal temps when you are away or have specialty needs.
- Temperature zones – Multiple cool zones within the fridge and freezer offer independent control for optimizing storage.
Evaluating Noise Level
Due to their size and powerful cooling systems, stainless French door fridges do create some operational noise. Here are tips for minimizing sound:
- Compare noise ratings between models to identify quieter compressors.
- Look for refrigerators advertised as having “silent” or “quiet” cooling technologies.
- Choose models with noise-reducing insulation around the compressors and condensers.
- Install the refrigerator on a solid, level floor away from high traffic areas to dampen vibrations.
- Avoid placing items directly on top of the refrigerator which can magnify sounds.
Following proper installation and maintenance will also keep your French door refrigerator running as quietly as possible.
The Top Brands and Models
Now that we’ve covered what to look for, let’s look at some of the highest rated stainless French door refrigerators across leading appliance brands:
- The Samsung RF27T5501SR is lauded for its spacious 27 cubic feet capacity and contemporary glass shelving. Owners love the recessed handles, fingerprint resistant finish, and quiet operation. MSRP: $2,499
- Whirlpool’s WRX735SDHZ has cool features like an interior water dispenser, humidity controlled crisper drawers for produce, and a handy pizza pocket. Its 36 inch width fits nicely in most kitchens. MSRP: $2,625
- KitchenAid KRFC704FPS wins praise for the adjustable spillproof glass shelving that slides and lifts out with ease. The bright LED lighting makes finding your favorites quick and easy. MSRP: $3,399
- LG LMXS28626S is highly rated for its door-in-door design that reduces cold air loss while providing quick access to frequently grabbed items. MSRP: $2,199
- The GE GNE25JSKSS is a smart option with wifi connectivity to allow remote monitoring and control from your smartphone. Owners love the stainless steel wrapped doors and illuminated controls. MSRP: $2,499
Be sure to also consider warranties when comparing models, as better brands offer longer warranties on parts like the compressor and condenser.
Expert Tips for Caring for Your French Door Fridge
To keep your stainless steel French door refrigerator looking and running like new for years to come, be sure to follow these pro tips:
- Use a stainless steel cleaner/polish monthly to keep exterior free of fingerprints and water spots that can corrode the beautiful finish.
- Replace air filters every 6 months to improve efficiency and prevent dust buildup on condenser coils. Clogged coils force the compressor to work harder.
- Keep the doors organized using storage bins and organizers designed for refrigerator use to prevent spills and clutter.
- Allow air circulation behind the fridge and leave adequate space between wall for ventilation. This allows the compressor to dissipate heat properly.
- Level the refrigerator using the front leveling legs during installation. Keeping it slightly elevated in front allows doors to close and seal tightly.
- Keep the condenser coils clean using a long handled brush to gently remove dust and debris which reduces cooling performance.
Following a diligent cleaning and maintenance routine will keep your fridge in top working order for the long haul.
Answers to the Most Common French Door Refrigerator Questions
When investing in a new stainless steel French door refrigerator, it’s natural to have some questions arise during your research. Here we’ll address some of the most frequently asked queries:
What are the benefits of a French door model versus a standard top freezer refrigerator?
The compartmentalized layout provides better organization options, the double doors allow multiple people to access items simultaneously, and the bottom freezer drawer keeps items colder with less temperature fluctuation when doors are opened frequently. They also have an attractive, built-in look popular for today’s kitchens.
How much electricity does a 36 cubic foot French door refrigerator use?
On average, a larger 36 cubic foot model uses about 500-600 kWh per year. This is more than a standard 18 cubic foot refrigerator but the tradeoff for increased capacity may be worth it for large households.
Do I need a water line hookup for the through-the-door ice and water dispenser to work?
Most models with built-in dispensers do require a water line installation for the ice maker and dispenser functions to operate. However, there are some models with enclosed dispensers inside the fridge that don’t require a hookup.
What are the most important dimensions to measure when picking out a refrigerator?
Be sure to measure the overall height, width and depth of the available space to ensure proper fit. Door swing clearance and depth with doors fully open are also key to allow easy access without collisions.
Should I get a standard or counter-depth French door refrigerator for my kitchen?
Counter-depth fridges don’t protrude as far from your cabinets for a built-in, flush look but their storage capacity is significantly reduced. Standard depth models hold a lot more food but stick out much further into your kitchen space.
What temperature should the refrigerator and freezer be set at?
The refrigerator compartment should be set between 37-40°F. For the freezer, the ideal temperature is at or below 0°F. Investing in a model with separate temperature controls for each section allows you to customize.
How long can I expect a high-end French door refrigerator to last?
With proper care and maintenance, the average lifespan is 10-15 years. Higher end models from reputable brands tend to have longer lifespans closer to the 15 year mark due to higher quality materials and craftsmanship.
Tips for Maximizing Your French Door Refrigerator
To get the most out of your investment in a gorgeous new stainless steel French door refrigerator, be sure to keep these food storage tips in mind:
- Allow hot foods to fully cool down before placing in the fridge to avoid temperature spikes.
- Freeze any leftovers you don’t plan to eat in the next 3-4 days to prevent spoilage.
- Organize your refrigerator compartments by food groups for quicker meal prep. Keep produce visible and accessible.
- Wrap or seal foods well in airtight containers to retain moisture and prevent odor transfer between foods.
- Adjust shelf positions and use door bins to accommodate taller or oddly shaped items. Maximizing vertical space allows you to fit more in.
- Avoid overcrowding shelves or blocking vents as ample airflow is key for temperature regulation.
Taking a bit of time to organize your refrigerator and employ smart storage habits will help your food stay fresh longer and reduce waste. Your French door fridge will become the perfect environment for keeping groceries neat, visible and chilled.
Conclusion
With their ample storage capacities, flexible organization options and gorgeous stainless finishes, stainless steel French door refrigerators are must-have kitchen appliances for those seeking both form and serious function.
Using the insights in this guide, you can determine the perfect size, layout and features for your household. Be sure to keep your fridge fully stocked and running optimally with proper cleaning, maintenance and food storage habits.
Your French door refrigerator is more than just a stylish appliance – treat it right and it will be the hardworking hero of your kitchen for years of food freshness.