At a Glance
Is it just us, or does it seem like the days continue to get busier and busier? Throw in current events, and even the simplest errands feel like they require extra planning. Frankly, there’s not enough time in the world to give everything the attention it deserves, so when it’s time for you to update or replace your current refrigerator, it can easily become a game of wants-versus-needs.
On one hand, you could spend weeks researching to find a refrigerator you’ve always dreamed of having in your kitchen. Then again, when you have food on the verge of spoiling, plus a family of hungry kids (that includes you, too, dad), choosing the best option given the circumstances is not a bad idea, either.
Of course, once you learn how to shop for refrigerators online, you can instantly convert those 15 minutes into an immersive refrigerator shopping experience right from the convenience of your home. While you’re most likely already fluent in online shopping, we’d like to make your shopping experience as hassle-free with our tips on how to shop for a fridge using our interactive online platform.
Explore Refrigerators
Browse refrigerators from leading brands like Monogram, Sub-Zero, Thermador, and more at Friedmans Appliance, today!
Shop RefrigeratorsIf you’re still new to our page, take a moment to learn about all our on-page features we’ve conveniently listed for you in our blog on how to shop for appliances online. There, you’ll learn how to navigate our page to find just what you’re looking for along with some bonuses!
1. Make Measurements
When it comes to configuration and size, refrigerators are the most diverse kitchen appliance, available in a range of dimensions that suit your design demands and kitchen layout. That’s why it’s essential to know how much space you have available in your kitchen, especially if you plan to buy a refrigerator online.
Follow these steps to measure your refrigerator space; for the most accurate results, we recommend performing these measurements at least three times.
Using a tape measure:
- Measure the height from the floor of the space to overhead cabinetry (when necessary); make sure to compare these results to a refrigerator’s “height with hinges”
- Measure the width from the one end of cabinetry or a countertop to the next
- Measure the depth from the back wall to the end of nearby cabinetry or countertops
- If your kitchen has an island, make sure to measure the clearance starting from the end of a cabinetry or countertops to the start of the island; compare the results with “depth of door open 90 degrees”
Once you’ve gathered the measurements from your kitchen, measure the width and height of every entryway where you plan to receive your refrigerator delivery. Keep in mind, deliveries often arrive with appliances still in their original boxes (this helps prevent any potential damage). Make sure to compare the size of your home’s entryways according to the dimensions of the box.
Other considerations include:
- A working 110/120-volt electric outlet
- For refrigerators with a water and ice dispenser, a proper water line
2. Choose a Refrigerator Style
A refrigerator’s style can be an expression of your personal taste, but it also plays a role in how much storage capacity a refrigerator will have. While we encourage you to explore all the different refrigerator styles, we also suggest keeping in mind the overall space that’s available to work with in your kitchen. To help narrow your choices down, become familiar with what each refrigerator style has to offer below.
Top-Freezer Refrigerators
The classic top-freezer refrigerator may seem humble, but its simple design is easy to use, and is often only matched in usable freezer space by side-by-side refrigerators. However, unlike their counterparts, top-freezer refrigerators have wider freezer storage for more flexibility when it comes to freezing large, boxy, and odd-shape containers.
Additionally, thanks their practicality and popularity, most brands carry top-freezer fridges in various finishes comparable to high-end refrigerators, like this GE top-freezer fridge.
Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators
If you like the value and practicality of a top-freezer refrigerator but prefer something with a little more visual appeal, the next best option is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. By flipping the configuration and using a pull-out drawer, you get easier access to freezer items. However, the available freezer space is often less than top-freezer refrigerators since they use storage baskets and bins since you cannot access the freezer face-on like you typically would on a standard refrigerator.
But with the LG LRDCS2603S bottom-freezer refrigerator — LG’s largest bottom-freezer fridge in the 33-inch class — storing frozen items is a breeze.
Side-by-Side Refrigerators
As mentioned above, side-by-side refrigerators boast some of the most freezer space amongst refrigerator styles. The parallel doors also mean there is less swing clearance, making this refrigerator style ideal for tighter spaces. With a slim, 33-inch width, the Frigidaire FFSS2315TS is a prime selection for kitchens that are tight on space, but enjoy the practicality of ample storage and the perk of an in-door ice and water dispenser.
Keep in mind, though, boxier and wider containers require a little more thinking when it comes to storing.
French Door Refrigerators
Featuring two side-by-side doors on top and a pull-out freezer below, French door refrigerators provide a unique combination of storage with wide shelving that’s practical for storing large platters and to easily access foods. For even more flexibility, consider a four-door French door refrigerator with a temperature-adaptable middle drawer zone, like the Bosch B36CL80ENS with a top-rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 202 reviews!
Learn more: Best French Door Refrigerator Brands for Bay Area Kitchens
What are Counter-Depth and Built-In Refrigerators?
During your exploring, you’re likely to come across built-in refrigerators and counter-depth refrigerators. The terms are used often in online refrigerator shopping, but what is the difference?
Counter-depth refrigerators offer a sleeker installation than freestanding refrigerators and are designed to sit flush against nearby cabinetry. Typically, a counter-depth fridge protrudes only a few inches beyond the counter, whereas a freestanding fridge can jut out six inches or even more.
However, for a truly seamless installation, consider a built-in refrigerator. This style of refrigeration is built directly into your kitchen’s cabinetry, providing a completely integrated look. Built-in refrigerator options include, all-freezer column units, freezerless column refrigerators and all-in-one built-in refrigerators.
3. Select a Finish
Nowadays, refrigerators come in a variety of finishes that not only add visual appeal to a kitchen, but also make maintenance easier, such as refrigerators with fingerprint-resistant stainless-steel. This is your chance to get creative with a refrigerator finish that makes a statement!
Other popular styles include:
- White refrigerators for a classic look at a value
- Panel-ready refrigerators that virtually disappear into their surroundings
- Black stainless-steel refrigerators for an extra layer of visual interest
- Slate refrigerators for something trendy and a little different
4. Explore Refrigerator Brands
Do you already have a preferred brand in your kitchen, such as GE, Samsung, or LG? Then it might be best to begin your search with that brand. This will create a more consistent user experience from one appliance to the next.
If you prefer to step out of your current range, then try checking out all the brands we carry at Friedmans, from affordable refrigerator brands like Electrolux and Frigidaire, to luxury brand refrigerators, including brands like Miele, Sub-Zero, Fisher & Paykel and Signature!
5. Consider Refrigerator Features
Make sure to keep an eye on special banners with useful information, such as refrigerators that are in-stock and best-selling refrigerators. These often indicate which refrigerator meets the demands of various buyers. To make sure your selection is up to your standards, consider the following:
- In-door water and ice dispensers save energy costs by allowing you to access water and ice without opening the refrigerator door
- Hidden water and ice dispensers located inside the refrigerator keep the exterior looking sleek and modern
- Dual ice makers
- Energy Star qualifications help ensure your new refrigerator won’t run up costs
- Simple temperature and humidity controls
- Flexible drawer zones
- Wi-Fi connectivity
Additionally, make sure to account for exclusive features that provide even more convenience, such as LG refrigerators with InstaView™ Door-in-Door® technology, or Samsung refrigerators with Family Hub™ panels on the door.
6. How to Checkout
That moment when you’ve selected the perfect refrigerator that will match the look and flow of your kitchen and you’re one step closer to having your online refrigerator purchase delivered right to your door—winning! Now what? If you’d like to finish your online refrigerator purchase, follow these steps.
- Select the “Add to Cart” button located on the right-hand side of the page; this will be below the “At a Glance” section immediately next to the product image.
- Next, select the “Go to Cart” button. This will direct you to a page where you can include add-ons to your purchase, such as a warranty or refrigerator accessories.
- Finalize your purchase by selecting “Proceed to Checkout” and filling out all the information.
- After reviewing the info, confirm your online refrigerator purchase by selecting “Place Order”.
Want to continue browsing refrigerators? No problem! Just select the “Wishlist” located below “Request More Info” and add your choice to a list. Later, you can select the “Compare” function to get a side-by-side look at all your final options.
Simple Purchasing In-Store or Online
With this new information, we hope shopping for a new refrigerator online will be easier, faster, and maybe even a little bit fun. Want to take a look at your potential winner in-person? Visit us at our Pleasant Hill showroom conveniently located off I-680 in the Crossroads Shopping center next to Kohl’s! Our team of experts are glad to help show you why we’ve been the Trusted Name in Bay Since 1922™ by matching you with a refrigerator that meet the needs of you and your home. Shop today!
FAQ
Both have their perks! Shopping online offers convenience and lets you compare features, models, and prices from the comfort of home. With Friedmans detailed product pages and expert support just a call away, you can confidently shop online or visit our showroom if you want to see models in person.
Start by measuring the width, height, and depth of your available space—don’t forget to leave room for ventilation and door clearance. Our online filters at make it easy to narrow down models by size, style, and features that fit your kitchen perfectly.
Think about what matters most to your lifestyle. French door models offer spacious organization, while counter-depth designs provide a built-in look. Popular features include dual evaporators, adjustable shelving, smart tech, and built-in water and ice dispensers. Friedmans’ product listings highlight these features to make your decision easier.
If you're in the Bay Area and want a trusted source for quality refrigerators, shop online with Friedmans Appliance. Our selection includes top brands, detailed specs, and local delivery you can count on.
Why Trust Us?
Established in 1922, Friedmans Appliance has been the most trusted name in the Bay Area for over 100 years. What started as a small appliance store in Oakland has expanded to include every appliance you need for your home. Our commitment to value, inspiration, and character has only grown, creating an unbeatable reputation for top-notch appliances. At Friedmans, we strive to give our customers the best of the best, including our selection of top appliance brands and our exceptional customer service. Speaking of which, we offer a 100-day price guarantee on all our products — the longest in the industry!
Our wide selection of appliances is just one of the reasons we’re the best Bay Area appliance store. We carry refrigerators in every style, every cooking appliance to show off your chef skills, and every dish care and laundry appliance you need for cleanup.
Shop Refrigerators at Friedmans
See for yourself why Friedmans is a trusted name in the Bay Area and shop refrigerators online. While we are located in Pleasant Hill, we deliver to all of Northern California — even Reno! If you have any questions, our team is always happy to help you find perfect GE Monogram appliances for your home, whether you call us at 925-808-2950, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our appliance store in Pleasant Hill to experience the quality in person. Visit us today!
Learn more: 6 Reasons to Shop Refrigerator Clearance Sales