GE Profile 4 Door Refrigerator

Refrigerator wattage varies a bit depending on the size and age of your model, but generally, a standard refrigerator uses between 300 and 800 watts while it’s running. Think of it this way: modern fridges are incredibly efficient—especially if you look for the ENERGY STAR® label. While older models used to be energy hogs, today’s fridges use about as much electricity as a 60-watt lightbulb left on continuously.

The sweet spot for keeping your food fresh and your drinks crisp is 37°F. Anything between 35°F and 38°F is safe, but 37°F is the gold standard to prevent freezing your lettuce while keeping bacteria at bay. For the freezer, you want to aim for 0°F to keep ice cream perfectly scoopable.

We build them to be a long-term part of the family! generally speaking, you can expect a refrigerator to last about 10 to 13 years. Of course, regular maintenance—like vacuuming those condenser coils underneath or behind the unit every once in a while, and not overpacking your fridge with containers—can help you get the most mileage out of your appliance.

Most household refrigerators pull anywhere from 3 to 6 amps while they are running. However, when the compressor first kicks on, there is a momentary surge that requires a bit more power. That’s why we always recommend plugging your fridge into its own dedicated 15-20 amp circuit. It keeps things running smoothly without tripping any breakers.

The weight of a fridge depends heavily on the style:

• Top-Freezer models usually weigh between 160 and 200 pounds.
• Side-by-Side and French Door models: are the heavyweights, often ranging from 250 to 350+ pounds. NOTE: If you’re moving a refrigerator, measure your doorways and grab an appliance dolly (and a strong friend). And make sure you lift with your legs.

A counter-depth refrigerator is shallower than a standard model, meaning the body of the fridge sits nearly flush with your countertops. Standard fridges might stick out 6 inches or more past the counter, but a counter-depth model gives you that sleek, custom "built-in" look without the cost (or construction) of a true built-in unit. You lose a tiny bit of depth inside, but you gain a whole lot of style in the kitchen flow.

Nobody likes seeing those dark spots on the gasket, but it’s an easy fix.

1. Mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts warm water.
2. Use a soft cloth or a sponge to wipe down the seal. And for those tricky accordion folds in the gasket, a designated toothbrush is your best friend—it gets right into the crevices.
3. Wipe it dry with a clean cloth when you're done scrubbing. Pro tip: Rub a little petroleum jelly on the seal afterwards to keep it supple and sealing tight.