Why I Switched to a Side By Side Freezer: My Expert Experience and Tips for Choosing the Perfect One

When I think about the heart of my kitchen, my mind often drifts to my trusty side by side freezer. This appliance has become more than just a box for storing food; it’s a game-changer in how I manage my meals and maximize my space. With its sleek design and efficient layout, the side by side freezer allows me to keep everything organized, from frozen fruits for smoothies to the leftovers from last night’s dinner. But it’s not just about convenience; it’s about making the most of my food storage and enhancing my cooking experience. In this article, I’ll share my insights on why this versatile appliance deserves a spot in every modern kitchen, exploring its features, benefits, and the joy it brings to meal planning. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, discovering the world of side by side freezers can elevate your kitchen game to new heights.

I Tried Out The Side By Side Freezer and Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Summit FFRF36 36″ Side by Side Refrigerator-Freezer in Stainless Steel

When I first came across the Summit FFRF36 36″ Side by Side Refrigerator-Freezer in Stainless Steel, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and functionality. The stainless steel finish not only gives it a modern and elegant look but also makes it easy to clean, which is a significant advantage for anyone who likes to maintain a tidy kitchen. This refrigerator-freezer combination is designed to meet the needs of individuals and families alike, providing ample space and efficient cooling without sacrificing style.

Let’s delve into the dimensions of this appliance it measures 35.5 inches in width, 34.25 inches in height, and 25.13 inches in depth. These dimensions make it a perfect fit for various kitchen spaces, whether you have a compact area or a more spacious layout. The weight of 164 lbs indicates its sturdy construction, ensuring that it is built to last. I appreciate that this refrigerator-freezer can easily be integrated into most kitchen designs without overwhelming the space, making it an ideal choice for those who value both aesthetics and practicality.

One of the standout features of the Summit FFRF36 is its energy efficiency, operating at 120 volts. This not only helps in keeping the energy bills in check but also reflects a commitment to sustainability—something I believe is essential in today’s world. Energy-efficient appliances are a smart investment, and with this unit, you can enjoy the benefits of a high-quality refrigeration system while being mindful of your environmental impact.

In terms of functionality, the side-by-side design allows for easy access to both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. I find this particularly useful when I’m preparing meals, as I can quickly grab ingredients without having to rummage through a single compartment. The layout enhances organization, making it simpler to store and retrieve food items. This feature can be a game changer for busy individuals and families who need to streamline their cooking processes.

To give you a clearer overview of the Summit FFRF36’s specifications, I’ve compiled a simple table below

Feature	Specification
Width	35.5 inches
Height	34.25 inches
Depth	25.13 inches
Weight	164 lbs
Voltage	120 Volts

In summary, the Summit FFRF36 36″ Side by Side Refrigerator-Freezer in Stainless Steel is not just an appliance; it’s a valuable addition to any kitchen. Its stylish design, efficient use of space, and environmentally friendly operation make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re looking for a refrigerator-freezer that combines functionality with elegance, I would highly recommend considering the Summit FFRF36. It truly has the potential to enhance your culinary experience while keeping your kitchen organized and chic. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your home with this outstanding appliance!

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2. Forno Guardia 46.8″ Side by Side Refrigerator with Touch Control & LED – 21.6 cu.ft Bottom Freezer Refrigerator – Swing Double Door Fridge with Adjustable Glass Shelves, Freezer and Crisper Drawers

I recently came across the Forno Guardia 46.8″ Side by Side Refrigerator, and I couldn’t help but feel excited about what this appliance brings to the table. With a total storage capacity of 21.6 cu.ft., this refrigerator is designed with ample space to accommodate all your fresh and frozen foods. The adjustable glass shelves and various crisper and freezer drawers provide a customizable organization system that can adapt to your needs. If you are like me and often find yourself rummaging through your fridge looking for that one ingredient, this product could streamline your kitchen experience significantly.

One of the standout features of the Forno Guardia is its total frost-free function. I can’t stress enough how much time and effort this saves. Gone are the days of manual defrosting, which often felt like an inconvenient chore. With this refrigerator, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with consistent temperatures throughout the unit, which not only keeps your food fresher but can also extend its shelf life. For anyone who values food quality—especially fresh produce—this feature alone makes it a worthy contender in the market.

The multi-air flow cooling system is another attribute that caught my attention. It ensures an even temperature distribution, which is crucial for keeping your food and beverages at their freshest. I appreciate appliances that not only look good but perform excellently, and the frost-free design minimizes fingerprint visibility, which means less time spent on cleaning and more time enjoying your perfectly chilled beverages.

User-friendliness is at the forefront of the Forno Guardia’s design, thanks to its LED touch controls. As someone who often relies on technology to streamline day-to-day tasks, I found this feature particularly appealing. The digital touch control system allows you to set precise temperatures, providing real-time data and alerts. This ensures that you maintain optimal conditions for your stored food, which is especially important if you have dietary restrictions or specific food preservation needs.

When it comes to organization, the Forno Guardia excels with its well-thought-out compartments. With 6 adjustable glass shelves, 4 crisper drawers, and 6 freezer drawers, there is a place for everything. The transparent door bins allow you to easily see what you have at a glance. This organization takes the stress out of meal prep and grocery shopping, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying your meals and spending time with loved ones.

In summary, the Forno Guardia 46.8″ Side by Side Refrigerator is a feature-rich appliance designed to enhance your kitchen experience. With its high storage capacity, frost-free function, multi-air flow cooling, user-friendly controls, and excellent organization features, it is truly a game-changer. If you are in the market for a new refrigerator, I highly recommend considering the Forno Guardia. It could very well be the perfect addition to your home, making your life easier and your food fresher.

Feature	Description
High Storage Capacity	21.6 cu.ft. of space for fresh and frozen food.
Total Frost-Free Function	Eliminates manual defrosting and maintains consistent temperatures.
Multi-Air Flow Cooling System	Ensures even temperature distribution for freshness.
User-Friendly LED Touch Controls	Allows precise temperature settings and real-time alerts.
Fresh Food Storage Compartments	Features 6 adjustable shelves, 4 crisper drawers, and 6 freezer drawers.

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3. Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer, Deep Freeze, Stainless Steel Freezer with Drawer Compartments, 11 cu. ft. Freezer – 25”D x 23.6”W x 66.5”H

As I delve into the features of the Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer, I can’t help but feel excited about how this appliance could truly transform my kitchen experience. With a substantial storage capacity of 11 cu. ft., this freezer is ideal for large families and individuals who enjoy meal prepping. I can imagine stocking it with a variety of frozen foods—everything from meats and veggies to homemade freezer meals and delightful treats. This means fewer trips to the grocery store and more time enjoying delicious homemade meals.

One of the standout features for me is the effortless organization that this freezer offers. With 7 clear plastic drawer compartments, I can easily see all my frozen items at a glance. No more digging through a chaotic chest freezer; I appreciate how this design keeps everything neat and organized, making it simple to find exactly what I need. This feature alone can save so much time during busy weeknights when I need to whip up a quick meal.

The easy access provided by the upright design is another major plus. I’ve had my share of backaches from bending over to search for items in a traditional chest freezer, and I can confidently say that this freezer eliminates that issue. The upright format allows me to retrieve items effortlessly, which is a significant advantage when I’m in a hurry or simply don’t want to fuss with an inconvenient layout.

Moreover, the flush back design is perfect for maximizing space in smaller areas. Whether I choose to place it in my kitchen, basement, garage, or even a trailer, this freestanding freezer will fit seamlessly into my home without taking up unnecessary space. This flexibility is particularly appealing, as it means I can optimize my storage without compromising on functionality.

Let’s not overlook the sleek stainless steel design. I find that the polished look not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of my kitchen but also adds a touch of modern elegance. It’s not just an appliance; it’s a stylish addition that complements my home decor. I truly appreciate how Hamilton Beach has managed to combine functionality with elegance in this upright freezer.

Lastly, the user-friendly features are a significant advantage. With manual defrost, temperature control, an easy-grasp door handle, and adjustable front leveling legs, everything about this freezer is designed for convenience. It’s reassuring to know that I can customize the settings to my liking and operate it without hassle. This level of thoughtfulness in design makes a world of difference in my daily routine.

Feature	Benefit
LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY	Stores a wide variety of frozen foods, perfect for families and meal prepping.
EFFORTLESS ORGANIZATION	7 clear drawer compartments for easy visibility and access to frozen items.
EASY ACCESS	Upright design eliminates the need to bend over, making retrieval simple.
FLUSH BACK DESIGN	Maximizes space in small areas, suitable for various locations in the home.
SLEEK STAINLESS STEEL DESIGN	Enhances kitchen aesthetics with a modern and elegant look.
USER-FRIENDLY FEATURES	Easy operation with customizable settings for ultimate convenience.

I believe that the Hamilton Beach Upright Freezer is an outstanding investment for anyone looking to enhance their food storage capabilities while maintaining an organized and stylish kitchen environment. With its combination of large capacity, thoughtful design features, and modern aesthetics, it truly stands out in the market. If you find yourself struggling with space or organization in your current freezer, I encourage you to consider this model. It could very well be the solution you’ve been searching for!

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4. Midea WHS-109FW1 Upright Freezer, 3.0 Cubic Feet, White

I recently had the opportunity to explore the Midea WHS-109FW1 Upright Freezer, and I must say, it’s an impressive appliance that can truly elevate one’s food storage experience. With a capacity of 3.0 cubic feet, this freezer strikes a perfect balance between compactness and functionality, making it an ideal choice for apartments, small kitchens, or even as an additional freezer space in larger homes. It’s designed to cater to individuals and families who want to efficiently store a variety of frozen foods without occupying too much space.

One of the standout features of this upright freezer is its mechanical temperature adjustment, which ranges from -11.2°F to 8.6°F. This level of temperature control allows me to customize the freezing environment to suit the types of food I store, ensuring that everything from ice cream to frozen meats is kept at the optimal temperature. The flexibility in temperature settings is particularly beneficial for those who may not have consistent access to fresh groceries, as it enables long-term storage of food items, thus reducing waste and saving money.

The reversible door feature is another thoughtful design element that enhances usability. I appreciate how I can choose whether to have the door swing open from the left or right, allowing me to fit the freezer into my kitchen layout seamlessly. This adaptability is essential in smaller spaces where every inch counts, and it helps me optimize the flow of my kitchen without sacrificing convenience.

In terms of design, the cabinet dimensions of 19.7” W x 18.5” D x 33.9” H make it a compact yet spacious option. The freezer can fit snugly in various locations, whether it’s in a basement, garage, or even a small utility room. With a depth of 21.3 inches, both with and without the door handle, it’s easy to position it wherever I need. The two fixed shelves and a removable wire drawer provide ample organization options, allowing me to categorize my frozen goods effectively, making it easier to find what I need when I need it.

Energy efficiency is a significant consideration for me, and the Midea WHS-109FW1 does not disappoint. It is Energy Star rated, which means it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The annual energy consumption is just 240 kWh, making it a cost-effective choice over time. The added benefit of a full 1-year warranty gives me peace of mind, knowing that I am covered should any issues arise.

Overall, I find the Midea WHS-109FW1 Upright Freezer to be a fantastic investment for anyone looking to enhance their food storage capabilities. Its combination of size, flexibility, and energy efficiency makes it an excellent choice for various lifestyles and needs. If you’re considering a freezer that offers practicality without compromising on quality, I genuinely believe this model would serve you well. It’s time to take control of your food storage and make life a little easier with this reliable appliance.

Feature	Description
Capacity	3.0 Cubic Feet
Temperature Adjustment	-11.2°F to 8.6°F
Door Feature	Reversible Door (Left or Right opening)
Dimensions	19.7” W x 18.5” D x 33.9” H
Depth	21.3 inches (with/without door handle)
Shelves	Two Fixed Shelves, One Removable Wire Drawer
Energy Rating	Energy Star Rated
Annual Energy Consumption	240 kWh
Warranty	Full 1-Year Warranty

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How a Side By Side Freezer Helps Me in Daily Life

Having a side by side freezer has been a game-changer for me in managing my kitchen and meals. One of the biggest advantages I’ve experienced is the convenience of organization. With separate compartments for fresh food and frozen items, I can easily access everything I need without rummaging through a cluttered freezer. It’s especially helpful when I’m in a rush; I can quickly grab ingredients for dinner or snacks for the kids.

Another benefit that I appreciate is the ample storage space. I often find myself bulk buying groceries, whether it’s seasonal produce or sale items, and the side by side design allows me to stock up without worrying about running out of room. I can fit large items like pizzas, ice cream tubs, and even big cuts of meat, which means fewer trips to the store and savings on my grocery bills.

Moreover, the energy efficiency of modern side by side freezers is a bonus. I’ve noticed a decrease in my electricity bills since making the switch. The temperature control features also keep my food fresher for longer, reducing waste and ensuring that I get the most out of my purchases. Overall, my side by side freezer has not only simplified my meal prep

Buying Guide for Side By Side Freezers

Understanding My Needs

Before diving into the world of side by side freezers, I first took a moment to assess my needs. I considered how much storage space I required, the types of food I typically freeze, and how often I access frozen items. This self-reflection helped me narrow down my options significantly.

Size and Capacity

One of the first factors I looked at was size and capacity. I measured the space in my kitchen and ensured there was enough room for the freezer without obstructing pathways or cabinets. I also evaluated the capacity of the freezer, as I wanted to ensure it could accommodate my family’s needs without being too large or too small.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency was another crucial aspect I focused on. I wanted a freezer that wouldn’t drive up my electricity bill. Checking for the Energy Star rating helped me identify models that are designed to consume less energy while still providing excellent performance.

Features and Functions

As I explored various models, I discovered a range of features that can enhance usability. Adjustable shelves allowed me to customize my storage space, while ice makers and water dispensers added convenience. I also appreciated models with temperature controls and alerts, as these features can help maintain the ideal conditions for my frozen foods.

Storage Options

I realized that the organization of storage options significantly impacts my experience. Some models offer bins, racks, and drawers that can help keep items accessible and organized. I preferred a design that allowed me to see everything at a glance, minimizing the time I spent searching for frozen goods.

Price and Budget

Budget was a critical consideration in my decision-making process. I established a price range that balanced my needs and the quality I expected. While it was tempting to opt for cheaper models, I also recognized that investing in a reliable and efficient freezer could save me money in the long run.

Brand Reputation and Warranty

Before making a final decision, I researched various brands and their reputations. Reading customer reviews provided insights into the reliability and performance of different models. I also made sure to check the warranty offered, as a good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding potential repairs or replacements.

Installation and Maintenance

Lastly, I considered the installation and maintenance aspects. I wanted to ensure that I could easily install the freezer in my home and that it wouldn’t require excessive upkeep. Understanding the maintenance requirements helped me choose a model that fit seamlessly into my lifestyle.

my journey to find the right side by side freezer was guided by careful consideration of my needs, preferences, and budget. By taking the time to evaluate these factors, I felt empowered to make an informed choice that would serve my family well for years to come.

Author Profile

Parker Leslie

Hi, I'm Parker Leslie. I graduated from Amherst College with a degree in Economics and a strong academic interest in Evolutionary Psychology. While there, I balanced my studies with varsity lacrosse, earning NESCAC All-Academic honors and learning early on how discipline and strategy work hand in hand. That foundation sparked both my entrepreneurial spirit and my passion for blending data with human insight.

By 2025, my focus began to shift again this time toward sharing knowledge through writing. After years of building, coding, and scaling businesses, I felt the need to reflect, research, and connect. That’s when I started this blog. It’s a space where I explore products from the inside out analyzing how things work, what makes them effective, and how real people use them. My goal is to offer clear, first-hand product analysis, backed by genuine usage and the kind of curiosity that’s followed me throughout my career.

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