A refrigerator has to fit your kitchen, the way you shop and your electricity budget. Check all three before you choose a model.
Measure the delivery route and the kitchen
Measure the narrowest doorway, lift and stair landing, then compare them with the packaged dimensions. At the installation spot, use the manufacturer’s clearance requirements for ventilation and check that the doors can open far enough to remove shelves and drawers. Check the socket position and allow space for the plug. For a model with a plumbed dispenser, confirm water supply requirements before ordering.
Choose capacity by what you store
Look at the internal layout with your largest containers in mind. Wide shelves help if you store pots or meal-prep boxes. A larger freezer makes sense if you batch-cook or stock frozen food. Check the split between fresh-food and freezer space and whether the shelves can move. Direct-cool models generally require manual defrosting. Frost-free designs automate defrosting, which may be worth paying for if the freezer sees frequent use.
Read the annual units on the BEE label
Compare models of similar size and type, and check the label period and model number. Use the annual energy consumption in kWh to estimate running costs. For example, a difference of 50 kWh per year at ₹8 per unit is about ₹400 per year. Actual use depends on room temperature, settings and door openings. Compare the estimated savings over the years you expect to keep the fridge with the upfront price difference.
Check power requirements and after-sales service
Read the model’s rated voltage range and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. If your home uses an inverter backup, ask the appliance and inverter manufacturers about compatibility. Check service coverage for your PIN code and read the warranty for the whole appliance. A longer compressor warranty can have separate terms for labour, visits and other components.
Confirm delivery, installation and returns
Check whether delivery includes carrying the fridge up stairs and whether installation or a demo needs a separate booking. Check the seller’s policy for transit damage before paying. At delivery, inspect the cabinet, handles and door seals, and match the model code and label to the invoice. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for when to switch it on after transport.
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