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Small Chest Freezer: An Ultimate Buying Guide

small chest freezer

A small chest freezer is a compact freezer that has a top lid that opens like a chest. This type of freezer is the economical variant of freezers and comes in a lightweight design. It usually comes in a capacity of 5 to 9 cubic feet. Top-rated small chest freezers are popular among their users because they consume less electricity and offer a convenient space to store extra groceries and eatables. Choosing the right small chest freezer can be tough. It is good to consider a few important points before buying.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Chest Freezer 

Capacity 

It is important to consider what size will suit your needs the best. There are a few common sizes to go for household as well as commercial needs. The capacity of the chest freezer can vary between 18 liters to 400 liters. Choose the size wisely before buying any freezer. 

Size of a Small Chest Refrigerator 

They are usually three major sizes available for small chest freezers. The most common ones are 3.5 cubic feet, 5 cubic feet, and 7 cubic feet. The 7 cubic feet size is seen more commonly in commercial spaces while 3.5 and 7 cu. ft is majorly preferred for household use. 

Outside Storage 

Many chest freezers have an in-build insulated lining. You can store such models in the outdoor space. Go for freezers that can be stored outside in unheated rooms. This will allow you to store them in garages and basements easily.  

Safety Features 

It is important to keep safety factors in mind before buying freezers. Go for models that come with improved safety features like door locks and overheating indicators.

Counterbalance Lid 

Go for freezers that come with a counterbalance lid. This will allow you to easily unload the items without holding the lid above. Many models also come with a 2-way counterbalance lid, allowing you to open the freezer from both ends. It is advised to check the product description on the material of the lid.

Energy Efficiency 

Always go for chest freezers that come with an energy star rating. This will allow you to save money on electricity consumption. We recommend you go with the ones, that come with efficient insulation for uniform cooling.  

Price 

You should consider the price of the freezer before purchasing it. The price of the freezers varies depending on size, model, and features. The usual price stays between $211 to $2500 approximately.  

Warranty 

It is important to check the warranty of the product before the purchase. All freezers come with a standard annual warranty. Some brands also offer 2-3 years of an extended warranty.  

Benefits of Small Chest Freezers 

Offers a Convenient Storage 

Chest freezers offer convenient space for storing extra groceries and eatables. The best part about freezers is that you can use the entire space to store groceries. It also allows you to store more.

Energy Savers 

Most freezers save a considerable amount of energy by using the incoming power to freeze all the consumables at once. Many new models, in fact, consists of an energy monitoring mechanism that indicates the utilization of energy by the freezer. 

Compact and Lightweight 

Chest freezers are compact appliances that cover less space and can also be stored easily. The lightweight feature allows you to carry them around with you during your travels to store beverages and food.  

Safe and Easy to Use 

Chest freezers come with simple and easy-to-use features. Most of them come with a simple plug-in mechanism while some of them have their wire covered with a shockproof plastic coating. This makes them safe and convenient to use.  

Added Features 

Generally, all the traditional models of small chest freezers come with a built-in thermostat. The newer models come with added features like storage baskets, thermostats, lids, internal light, temperature control buttons, etc. You can check a model like Koolatron KTCF99 Chest Freezer that has reliable and efficient temperature management that keeps the food temperature for a longer duration.

Best Small Chest Freezer

Midea WHS-129C1 Freezer

The Midea WHS-129C1 Freezer offers a storage capacity of 3.5 cu. Ft. and comes in an eternal white finish. This handy appliance features a hanging and removable storage basket, adjustable temperature settings, mechanical control, efficient insulation, and a convenient hinge-style door. This freezer can act as suitable storage for your homes or offices.

Kismile Chest Freezer

The Kismile Chest Freezer is a single-door freezer that offers a compact way of storing consumables safely for a longer duration. It is equipped with removable shelves, a standing mini freezer, an adjustable thermostat, a sleek design, and an excellent freezing mechanism. Reviews show that this freezer is indeed a worthy purchase. 

Midea MRC050S0AWW Chest Freezer

The Midea MRC050S0AWW Chest Freezer is an energy-efficient appliance that is perfect for your household usage. This 5 cu. ft, freezer comes with a mechanical control for convenient usage. It is equipped with an adjustable thermostat, removable basket, contemporary design, balanced hinged lid and a convenient defrost drain. This affordable appliance could be a great addition to your kitchen. 

Kismile 5.0 Cubic Feet Chest Freezer

The reviews of Kismile 5.0 Cubic Feet Chest Freezer are positive for its space-saving and energy-efficient design. You can easily install this freezer in your compact dorm space or upright apartment. The adjustable thermostat allows you to set your preferred temperature before you load your food items. This sleek appliance is popular for its contemporary finish, ergonomic design, and removable trays. 

hOmeLabs Feet Chest Freezer

Reviews of hOmeLabs Feet Chest Freezer show that this is one of the top-selling small freezers in the market. This 3.5  Cu. Ft. freezer comes with a compact and lightweight design. It also has removable baskets, an adjustable thermostat, and a reversible door. This freezer is a great appliance to bring home because of its stainless steel build-up that provides you with long-lasting usage.

Conclusion 

A small chest freezer is an invaluable addition to your kitchen space. It offers you convenient storage to keep your foods and eatables fresh for a long time. The above-mentioned factors are some of the general ones, that you can consider while finding an ideal chest refrigerator for yourself. You can read through our blog to get garage-ready chest freezer options.

BestViewsReviews rates and reviews the best freezers based on quality, convenience, and durability.

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Stocking the Stand Up Freezer: Tips and Hacks

stand up freezer

A freezer is a kitchen appliance that you can use to stock up your food items to keep them, fresh for a long. Stocking your stand-up freezer just right is a great way to preserve your consumables and groceries. Just like a well-stocked pantry, a well-stocked freezer helps with easy meal prep in a jiffy. Stocking can get cumbersome if you do not know the right tips. That is why make sure you are following the right way of stocking the freezer. Read our blog to know all about the small chest freezers.

Tips on Stocking the Stand Up Freezer

Check the Temperature 

It is good to check the temperature of your freezer before stocking. You should keep the temperature of your freezer at 0 degrees F or lower as per the standard. You can buy an inexpensive thermometer for this purpose. The top-selling Midea MRU03M2ABB has a temperature rating of 11.2ᵒ F to 10.4ᵒ F. You can read through our blog to know what is the ideal freezer temperature.

Buy Wraps

You should go with wraps, plastic bags, or containers that can withstand the low temperature and keep your food sealed and away from moisture. Most of these wraps come with a freezer-safe label. 

Choose Jars With Tempered Glass 

Choose jars that are tempered and freezer safe if you’re storing your food items in glassware. Make sure you also leave an inch gap from the top to avoid spills by expansion. The tempered glass lets you see your frozen foods without having to take them out.

Divide Your Meal Into Portions

You can make portions of 2 if you’ve 10 packs of meat or chicken and only consume is 5 at a time. Consider storing them in the same manner to save space. Smaller portions are also easier to defrost.  

Don’t Stock Thawed Food 

Thawed food can get introduced to bacteria if you try to freeze it. The taste may turn stale and items like meat also become unfit for consumption. 

Save Time By Combining Prep

You can save your time by storing all-in-one meals, instead of buying separate groceries for different meals. Combining meal prep can help you in budget bulk buys. Look for food items that you can use in double recipes. This will reduce your prep time.

Items You Can Store While Stocking the Stand Up Freezer

You should stock your freezer according to the drawer type. The bottom drawer is the best place to keep meat, poultry, and seafood in the freezer-safe paper. This is because they are heavy food items, and keeping them at the bottom will give you easy access. You can additionally add a layer of aluminum foil as well.

Fruits, vegetables, grains, garlic, herbs, broth, bread loaves, and baked goods are some other items that you can stock up in the middle drawer. All these items stay fresh provided they’re packed nicely. The top drawer is for storing ice creams, desserts, frozen foods, and prepared meals. Following this stocking tip will help you keep your food items organized.

Reviews of Kismile Chest Freezer are positive for its compact size and removable baskets. The compartments are easy to access which allows you to keep smaller items readily available.

Mistakes to Avoid While Stocking the Stand Up Freezer

Improper Food Packaging

Food packaging is an important step to keep in mind before stocking up your freezers. Improper food packaging can lead to food damage or freezer burns. That is why you should pack your foods in a proper glass container or other vessels depending on the available space in your freezer. The reviews of Frigidaire FFFU16F2VW 28″ show that this model has a large space and comes with a capacity of 15.5 cu. ft.

Not Labeling Your Food

You may not remember what you placed in the containers after some time. Your food items can get lost in the freezer like high-quality Midea MRU01M3ASL Freezer if they have no label. You should always label your food on the container, along with the date and other brief instructions. It will help you find your food easily.

Leaving Food in the Freezer Too Long

Leaving food in the freezer for a long time can affect the taste and flavor of your foods. That is why we recommend you not need your food items for more than 3-4 months if you want to enjoy the delicious taste of your meals. The right freezing time also depends on the food type.

Conclusion 

A well-stocked freezer can turn out to be the most convenient solution to easy food prep. A freezer can help you immensely whether you’re cooking for your guests or storing food for a hectic week ahead. Deciding between chest vs upright freezers can be confusing. Read our blog to know which one to pick.

BestViewsReviews rates and reviews the best chest freezers on the basis of quality, durability, and convenience.