Fridges

Buy fridges online now at Cromwell. We stock a comprehensive selection of fridges to suit your needs, including table-top fridges, larder fridges and under counter fridges, all given an A+ energy rating. We only choose quality products from reliable brands, like Igenix® and Premi®, so you can shop worry-free.

What is a fridge?

Short for refrigerator, a fridge is an insulated cabinet which uses electricity to maintain a low internal temperature and preserve food for longer than if it was left at room temperature. They're a feature of almost every home and are also used commercially and appear in most canteens and staff kitchen spaces.

Why a fridge?

A fridge will slow down the growth of bacteria on fresh food and produce to prevent it from spoiling. This can prevent food wastage and maintain Food Safety standards when used in a commercial kitchen.

Some woodworkers and workshops keep a small fridge in which to store glues and other similar adhesives. While plant nurseries store collected seeds in the fridge to prolong their life.

When to use a fridge?

Fridges can be used domestically, but are also invaluable in shared areas with a lot of personnel such as warehhouses, offices, schools and any highly staffed areas.

Fridge types

Fridges are available in a range of sizes and energy ratings. They all tend to be similar in design, with the biggest variants being colour and size...

• Fridge freezer   -   This type of fridge is available in a range of configurations, with a freezer section positioned at either the top or bottom, or side by side.

• Larder fridge   -   Just like an under counter fridge, this design doesn't lose space to a freezer section.

• Tabletop fridge   -   These small fridges are ideal when space is limited. Sometimes featuring a small freezer compartment at the top of the unit they are often used just for cold drinks.

• Under counter fridge   -   A common design, this type of fridge is incorporated into a larger kitchen under the counter and can be integrated or fitted with a kitchen cabinet door fixed to the front. It usually features a small freezer compartment and crisper drawers at the bottom.

Considerations when choosing a fridge

• Space - it's important to measure the space where you intend to store the fridge. Make sure there's easy access to a plug socket and be generous on the width to ensure there's enough room for fitting and opening the door.

• Capacity - the number of staff who will be using the fridge will make this decision a lot easier. Anything over five people dismisses the tabletop fridge.

• Additional features - the modern fridge offers a lot of useful features, such as auto defrost to reduce maintenance, a frost-free mode to prevent the formation of ice on food and an antibacterial coating to name but a few.

• Eco-credentials - look for an A+ energy rating and an adjustable thermostat.

Fridges jargon buster

We want to make it as easy for you as possible to shop our range of fridges, so we've outlined some key terminology to ensure you purchase the right product for your needs.

What is a compressor in a fridge and how does this help keep it cool?

The compressor's job is to recieve the low pressure gas and compress it into a high pressure gas. This is then moved along to the condenser which helps to lower the temperature of the gas by condensing it into a liquid refrigerant.

FAQs

Does an employer need to provide a fridge?

An employer must provide drinking water, the means to make hot drinks and to heat food. However, the provision of a fridge for the storage of employee lunches and drinks is not a legal requirement. If a new mother is returning to work however, and is still breastfeeding, she may request a fridge in which to store breast milk, which according to British employment law, must be provided.

What is the coldest part of a fridge?

Once a fridge door is closed and sealed, it maintains a consistent temperature throughout the unit. However, regular opening and closing of the fridge door allows for warm air to collect inside. While heat rises, cold air sinks, and so the coldest part of a fridge is the bottom shelf, right at the back.