At a Glance
Benefits of Bottom Freezer Refrigerators
Most Recommended Bottom Freezer Refrigerators
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator: Pros and Cons
In most kitchens, the refrigerator is most frequently used, while the freezer often plays a secondary role. Constantly bending down to access a traditional top-freezer fridge can be inconvenient, prompting many customers to discover the advantages of bottom freezer refrigerators.
Recognizing this inconvenience, many customers are now discovering the advantages of bottom freezer refrigerators.
In this article, we explore the benefits of these convenient bottom freezer refrigerators and explore whether they are more prone to issues than standard models.
Discover Bottom Freezer Refrigerators
Experience the convenience of a bottom freezer refrigerator with easy access to fresh foods and ample freezer space. Shop at Slager Appliances for unbeatable prices and exceptional service!
Shop GE Profile Laundry PairsBenefits of Bottom Freezer Refrigerators
Despite having a reputation for smaller capacities and potential problems, bottom freezer refrigerators have many benefits, making them a popular choice with homeowners, including:
- Easy Access to the Fridge: Traditional freezer-top refrigerators require bending to see inside your fridge and even crouching to open crisper drawers. A double-door freezer refrigerator helps keep your groceries within your sight line.
- Wide Shelving: This style offers full-width shelving in your fridge, which offers wider storage space than a side-by-side model.
- Freezer Organization: A drawer design for freezer space makes your stored food easy to access and organize.
Common Problems Reported
The design of bottom freezer refrigerators can concern shoppers, who worry their fridge may suffer from issues such as:
- Overheated Compressor: As a fridge compressor is built into the bottom of a unit, the proximity of the freezer can create concern about it working harder and overheating.
- Blocked Drain Hoses Causing Leaks: A complicated system of drain hoses keeps every fridge freezer free of ice, whether you have a KitchenAid bottom freezer refrigerator or a fancy Monogram model. When these lines become clogged, leakage and ice build up can follow.
- Broken Seals: If the seals around your bottom freezer fail, warm air can quickly enter your freezer drawer and cause the compressor to work hard.
Tips to Keep Your Bottom Freezer Refrigerator in Top Condition
These concerns can be mitigated by following simple guidelines and regular maintenance. Whether you own a high-end Sub Zero model or an affordable Maytag bottom freezer refrigerator, keeping your fridge in good condition is easy with these tips:
Avoid Overloading: Don’t add excess weight inside your fridge to prevent the compressor from overworking.
Maintain Drain Hoses: Keep drain hoses clear and adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for scheduled maintenance.
Inspect Seals Regularly: Regularly check your fridge and freezer seals for signs of wear to ensure they function properly.
Comparison with other Refrigerator Types
A bottom freezer fridge doesn't offer as much storage space as a side-by-side model or a larger French door-style freezer, but customers love the organization of the freezer drawers.
Often slimline and counter depth, this style of fridge is perfect for people who need a smaller capacity fridge, or want to upgrade to a luxury brand.
Most Recommended Bottom Freezer Refrigerators
Below, we highlight a selection of top-rated and luxury bottom freezer refrigerators to add stylish organization to your kitchen.
GE 11.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Model #: (GLE12HSPSS)
Shop GE 11.9 Cu. Ft. Counter Depth Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
This EnergyStar-certified stainless steel bottom freezer refrigerator from GE is an organizer’s dream because it is slimline and counter-depth for an elegant, built-in look.
Neatly designed for convenience, this stainless fridge has two separate bottom freezer drawers for easy access to frozen foods. A slide-out tray in the bottom freezer drawer helps to separate foods further so nothing gets forgotten in the bottom.
Featuring the GE QuickShelf system, the fridge interior can accommodate tall bottles and large pots, for real-life storage solutions. Offering edge-to-edge shelves to make the most of a smaller capacity, this model also features:
- Clear door shelves for full viewing of everything in your fridge
- ADA compliance for and accessible experience
- A 24 inch width, ideal for smaller kitchens and tight spaces
⭐Featured GE #GLE12HSPSS Review:
"Fits in my small kitchen and there is ample space for my food. The freezer section is quite large more than enough room for my needs. The fridge runs quiet and has a lot of nice features like a fold down wine rack and lighting in the freezer section."
➝ Learn More: 8 Best Counter Depth Refrigerators for Small Kitchens
Café 20.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
MODEL #: (CIC36LP2VS1)
Shop Café 20.2 Cu. Ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
A luxury, built-in fridge with customizable design features to match your kitchen, this pro-style Café bottom freezer fridge has clean lines and a truly flush installation. A convertible climate drawer offers temperature 4 settings, letting you choose how to use your extra space. Create extra space for meat, deli, drinks, or frozen foods.
The organized bottom freezer includes an automatic icemaker, so you’ll have filtered ice ready to go at any time! Bright LED lighting shines down on your groceries, while the adjustable glass shelves and door bins are trimmed with sophisticated glass copper metal detailing.
Wi-Fi enabled for smart control with your cell phone, this high-end refrigerator also includes:
- Soft close freezer drawer, reducing unnecessary noise in your kitchen
- Enhanced sabbath modes
- Professional style handles
➝ Learn More: 2 Stainless Steel Refrigerator Styles You'll Love
Monogram 20.2 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Counter Depth Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Model #: (ZIC363NBVRH)
Shop Monogram 20.2 Cu. Ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Experience the pinnacle of GE’s appliance suite with the Monogram bottom freezer refrigerator, a testament to premium craftsmanship and innovative design. Its counter-depth configuration provides a sleek, built-in appearance, while its slimline profile belies a surprisingly generous capacity.
The versatile middle drawer, featuring six customizable settings, allows you to store your favorites at their ideal temperatures. Whether you’re chilling wine, using it as a beverage fridge, or expanding your freezer space, this convenient drawer enhances efficiency by reducing the need to open the main fridge door frequently.
Stay connected with Wi-Fi capability, enabling remote control for added convenience. Plus, Monogram's exclusive concierge service program ensures any service issues are addressed promptly and efficiently. Designed with a minimal, professional style look, this upscale appliance also features:
- Edge-to-edge shelving to maximize capacity
- A factory installed icemaker
- Humidity controlled drawers to keep your vegetables fresh.
➝ Learn More: Which GE Monogram Refrigerator models Are Worth The Price?
Sub-Zero Classic Series 17.0 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Model #: (CL3050UG/O/R)
Shop Sub-Zero 17.0 Cu. Ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
An industry leader in luxury refrigeration, Sub Zero uses an intelligent cooling system to keep your food fresh for longer than you ever imagined. The details matter with upscale appliances. Features like Night Mode, which offers reduced lighting after dark, and a simple one-touch control panel set this high-end fridge apart.
Using a NASA-inspired air filtration system, the Sub-Zero bottom freezer fridge keeps odors at bay and prevents early produce spoilage. It is expected to last 20 years, and superior materials and extensive testing make this slimline fridge an investment for the future.
Wi-Fi enabled for easy remote access, this premium fridge also includes:
- Filtered ice on demand, with Ice Max option for quickly increasing production
- Adjustable shelving for a custom experience
- Full illumination with bright LED lighting
Sub-Zero Designer Series 19.6 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Counter Depth Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Model #: (DET3650CIID/R)
Shop Sub-Zero 19.6 Cu. Ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
This Sub-Zero bottom freezer fridge is the height of minimalist sophistication for your kitchen. It uses the Split Climate intelligent cooling system to prolong grocery freshness and create an environment with no warm spots.
A slimline Sub Zero is one of the best bottom freezer refrigerator options, ready for a fully custom experience.
Using ambient lighting for night time, the bright daytime LED illumination won’t startle you while you’re sleepy. Each spill-resistant shelf is treated with a special nano-coating to contain spills for easy cleanup. This top class model also features:
- NASA inspired air purification system to eliminate odors and slow the spoiling of produce
- An in-freezer ice maker with Max Ice Mode to quickly speed up ice production for entertaining
- Internal dispenser for fresh, purified water
Thermador Freedom16.0 Cu. Ft. Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Model #: (T30IB905SP)
Shop Thermador 16.0 Cu. Ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Another luxury bottom freezer refrigerator with an ice maker, this premium model from Thermador creates uniquely shaped Diamond Ice to impress your guests and add a little sophistication to your everyday routine.
Quick Chill mode distributes air evenly and eliminates warm areas in the fridge, rapidly bringing new groceries to the correct temperature.
Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity offers remote control via smartphone app, while the advanced water dispenser offers pure hydration with 99.9% of sediment eliminated. Slimline and built-in for the most elegant kitchen style, this small refrigerator with freezer on the bottom also includes:
- Automatic ice making for a constant supply
- Leg leveling technology to help installation go smoothly
- EnergyStar® certification with excellent efficiency
- Stainless steel interior for superior chilling
What to Look for When Buying a Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Like other refrigerator styles, bottom freezer refrigerators offer different features that may be a priority for your home. Some features to consider for your fridge include:
- Ice Making: If ice is a priority for your kitchen, make sure the model you select has an ice maker.
- Capacity: Many bottom freezer refrigerators are slimline by design, but capacities vary, and larger capacities are available.
- Single or Double Drawer Freezer: A great feature of bottom freezer refrigerators is the variety of freezer sizes available. If you like to have a lot of frozen food on hand, a model with two freezer drawers may better suit your needs.
- Depth: For a sophisticated built-in look, a counter depth refrigerator can add a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Standard depth fridges need a little more room but often offer a larger capacity.
- Finish: Stainless steel is a popular choice for refrigerator finishes, but many customers also prefer classic white refrigerators with bottom freezer, or even contemporary matte options.
- Built-in vs. Freestanding: Some premium models have a built-in design that may not be appropriate for your space. Similarly, if you want a fully built-in kitchen, ask your sales associate about built-in and panel-ready options.
Bottom Freezer Refrigerator: Pros and Cons
All appliances have pros and cons, depending on your priorities, household size, and preferences. Below, we examine some of the pros and cons of this type of refrigerator.
✅ Pros
- Easy Access to the Fridge: With your frozen food tucked away at the bottom of the unit, your fresh groceries take center stage at eye level when you open your fridge door.
- Well-organized Freezer Drawers: Bottom freezer refrigerators use a freezer drawer format, which makes them easy to keep organized and provides easy access to stored food.
- In-freezer Ice Maker: Lots of homeowners want ice on demand, without an ice maker taking up space in their fridge. Freezer drawers on the bottom can provide convenient access to an icemaker without losing any fridge space or using an external door dispenser.
❎ Cons
- Limited Freezer Space: If you like storing a large amount of food in your freezer, a drawer at the bottom of your fridge probably won’t have enough space for your needs.
- Increased Cost: Bottom freezer refrigerators provide many benefits, but they do come at a higher price point than options with the freezer on top. If budget-friendly options are your main priority while appliance shopping, a different style may be better.
Experience the Benefits of Bottom Freezer Refrigerators
At Slager, we've introduced countless customers to the benefits of bottom freezer refrigerators and helped them discover the perfect design for their needs.
Our range includes slimline models, luxurious craftsmanship options, and panel-ready choices for minimalists. Homeowners appreciate the convenient access these refrigerators provide, and their backs thank them for eliminating the need to bend multiple times a day.
With over 75 years of experience matching our neighbors with the right appliances for their homes, Slager Appliances is your go-to source for the most extensive selection and unbeatable deals in town.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about bottom freezer refrigerators:
What is a bottom freezer refrigerator?
A bottom freezer refrigerator is a type of refrigerator with a freezer compartment at the bottom. This design allows easier access to fresh food items at eye level, making it more convenient to retrieve frequently used items.
What are the advantages of a bottom freezer refrigerator?
The primary advantages include easier access to fresh food items, less bending to reach commonly used refrigerator sections and typically larger freezer storage capacity.
Do bottom freezer refrigerators come in different styles and finishes?
Absolutely. Bottom freezer refrigerators are available in various styles, including slimline designs, models with luxurious craftsmanship, and panel-ready options for a minimalist look. You can choose from finishes like stainless steel, black stainless steel, and custom panels to match your kitchen décor.
How long do bottom freezer refrigerators last?
Proper maintenance ensures that a bottom freezer refrigerator lasts 10 to 15 years. Regular cleaning, prompt repairs, and proper usage can extend the lifespan of your appliance.
Why Trust Slager Appliances?
Founded over 70 years ago, Slager Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Iowa City, IA. Slager has competitive prices and industry knowledge in delivering and installing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
Whether you need to replace an old appliance, or if you’re remodeling and need an entire kitchen full of new brand-name products we are with you all the way. We will work with you to find a product that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Shop Bottom Freezer Refrigerators at Slager Appliances
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop refrigerators online at Slager Appliances. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the best bottom freezer refrigerator for your kitchen — whether you call us at 319-337-3833, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Slager Appliances in Iowa City, IA. Visit us today!