Choosing a refrigerator for a summer residence: rating of high-quality and inexpensive models

The best compact refrigerators for the garden

Compact refrigerators are an ideal solution for a small country house where the owners stay for only a couple of days. Its volume is quite sufficient to fit a modest supply of food. The freezers in such models are quite small, but sufficient in this situation. Another advantage of compact refrigerators is minimal energy consumption. In addition to saving money, this has another advantage - in summer country houses the electrical network is often weak and cannot withstand heavy loads.

Rating of small refrigerators

The best two-chamber refrigerators for a summer residence

A full-fledged two-chamber refrigerator will be useful for owners of more serious country houses with a garden plot. Some city dwellers, if possible, move to their dachas for the entire summer period, so they choose spacious models for storing food supplies. The presence of a large freezer in this case will be an additional advantage, as it will allow you to freeze part of the harvest - berries, vegetables. Here it is worth giving preference to models that are large and modern, but are as simple in functionality as possible. Frequent power surges outside the city can damage sensitive electronics. So extremely simple units are much more reliable. Another important criterion is cost. For a summer residence, inexpensive options are usually chosen.

Biryusa R110CA

Our rating opens with an inexpensive refrigerator from the Biryusa company. The R110CA model is perfect if you plan to live in the country for at least one full month during the year. This mini-fridge has a total volume of 180 liters, which is an excellent indicator for devices of this class. At the same time, the R110CA has not only a spacious refrigerator compartment, but also a 27-liter freezer. Thus, if you are looking for a spacious refrigerator under 10,000 rubles, then this model from the Biryusa brand will be one of the best options. The annual energy consumption of this model is 175 kW/h, which corresponds to class A, and the noise level does not exceed 40 decibels.

Advantages:

• large total volume
• price-quality ratio
• low noise level

Flaws:

• none

Appearance is an important aspect when choosing a refrigerator

Modern refrigerators are manufactured in a variety of stylistic directions. This allows you to select the most suitable units in appearance that will fit perfectly into the design of the kitchen space. Stainless steel sheets and super-strong poured glass can be used as a coating. In addition, there are painted aggregates.

Tip: To avoid the appearance of fingerprints, which look so unpresentable and spoil the appearance of the refrigerator, you can opt for models with a coating made from coated glass.

To make the refrigerator a harmonious addition to the interior, pay attention to its color and style. This is especially true if you plan to install it in the kitchen.

Depending on how high-quality the compressor is, the noise level is determined, as well as the durability of the refrigerator. The optimal volume parameters are considered to be noise in the range of 21-56 dB. Analyzing which refrigerator is the quietest, experts came to the conclusion that it is optimal to opt for two-compressor models.

The best models according to buyers

According to store statistics, refrigerators with a separate, albeit small, freezer are in particular demand in stores. Manual defrosting does not scare consumers: the refrigerator is used seasonally, and it has to be cleaned no more than 2 times a year.

A much more important point is the price. For dachas, they choose models costing from 5,000 to 12,000 rubles, giving preference to trusted manufacturers. Such models last up to 10 years and do not require frequent repairs.

Midea MR1080W

Compact refrigerator with a height of 85 cm. There is no freezer compartment, the volume of the refrigerator compartment is 93 liters. The device is not suitable for freezing crops; its main purpose is to preserve food for several days.

Energy consumption class A+, which allows you not to overpay on the meter. The model is equipped with 1 compressor, manual defrosting. It works quietly, does not vibrate, and the body does not heat up.

Inside the refrigerator there are 3 convenient lattice shelves, the fastenings are quite reliable. The door can be hung. There are white and silver models on sale that easily fit into a country house interior. The manufacturer provides a two-year warranty, but buyers confirm that the refrigerator lasts much longer and does not require repairs.

Advantages:

• attractive appearance;
• low energy consumption;
• high-quality assembly;
• does not make noise;
• Stably low temperature inside; when set to minimum, you can store meat and other perishable foods.

Flaws:

• no internal lighting;
• If you are away for a long time, it is recommended to turn off the refrigerator after emptying it of food.

Kraft BC 50

A very compact model with a height of less than 50 cm. Weighs only 14.8 kg, is easy to move, and is quite stable. Ideal for people who rarely come to their country house. There are 2 glass shelves inside, 2 more are mounted on the door. Suitable for storing any food for several days.

A miniature refrigerator will fit even in the smallest room; it can be pushed under a table or placed on a work surface. The device looks modern and attractive, the coating is high-quality, the white plastic does not turn yellow over time.

You need to defrost the refrigerator manually. Energy consumption class A+, the device consumes about 106 kWh per year, and operates quite quietly. To prevent the device from vibrating, it must be installed on a completely flat surface.

Advantages:

• compact dimensions;
• very affordable price;
• Suitable for storing a small supply of food;
• saves energy.

Flaws:

• glass shelves are less reliable than metal ones;
• the door is not overhung;
• If you are away for a long time, you must turn it off.

Pozis RS-411

An original model that can decorate any country interior. Available in several colors: red, beige, graphite, white, silver. The refrigerator is made in Russia and has a three-year warranty. The total volume is 111 l, the freezer volume is 14 l. Suitable for storing a sufficient supply of food, does not require frequent shutdown.

The refrigerator door is metal and can be easily moved if necessary. The refrigerator compartment is illuminated by an incandescent lamp equipped with an indicator. Inside there are 2 glass and metal shelves that can withstand significant loads. The noise level is average, a lot depends on how smooth the floor is. The height of the device is 85 cm, it easily fits into any free corner.

Advantages:

• interesting design and color;
• the drip type of the refrigeration compartment does not require frequent defrosting;
• manufacturer's warranty 3 years;
• convenient internal equipment, high-quality shelves;
• there is internal lighting

Flaws:

• relatively high electricity consumption (up to 160 kWh per year);
• On uneven surfaces it may make noise and vibrate.

Shivaki SHRF-106

Stylish refrigerator from a reliable manufacturer. Compact dimensions are combined with good volume - 103 liters. There is a 10 liter freezer, 2 removable tempered glass shelves, 3 plastic holders on the door, which can also be rearranged. There are plastic containers for vegetables. Defrosts manually.

The refrigerator operates quite quietly and does not vibrate. In case of long-term absence, it is recommended to turn it off, having previously freed it from food.

The appearance corresponds to fashion trends: the device looks laconic and strict, the high-quality coating does not fade, and fingerprints are invisible on it.

Advantages:

• spectacular appearance;
• high-quality assembly;
• durable housing, resistant to mechanical stress;
• large internal volume;
• energy consumption class A+.

Flaws:

• small freezer;
• no internal lighting.

Indesit TT 85 T

An unusual model in a wood-effect case. Perfectly suits the country interior, can be installed both in the kitchen and in the living room. The refrigerator is small, mobile, and can be easily placed on a table or pushed under it. Convenient for frequent travel.

The total volume of the internal chamber is 119 liters, there is a 14 liter freezer. With its compact size, the refrigerator holds a sufficient supply of food. The shelves are lattice, metal, and can be easily rearranged to the desired level.

There are plastic containers for vegetables and eggs. According to user reviews, it can be noisy. The level of electricity consumption also raises doubts: the device consumes over 220 kWh per year. This is a lot for a small refrigerator.

Advantages:

• attractive design;
• decent volume, spacious freezer;
• excellent build quality;
• reliable housing coating.

Flaws:

• looks better in the picture in the catalog than in reality;
• consumes a lot of electricity;
• The noise level is higher than that of similar models.

Hansa FM 108

A small but quite spacious refrigerator in a classic white case. The total volume is 86 liters, the freezer accounts for only 7 liters.

The device is ideal for a small family that spends time at the dacha and does not want to create large food reserves.

The refrigerator is defrosted manually; this will have to be done often, otherwise a coat of snow will quickly build up in the freezer. Inside there are 2 tempered glass shelves and a compartment for vegetables. On the door there are 3 plastic stands for bottles, eggs and necessary small items.

The refrigerator is easy to move; if necessary, the door can be hung. Energy class A+, low noise level.

Advantages:

• compactness;
• affordable price;
• thoughtful interior equipment;
• high-quality assembly;
• decent appearance.

Flaws:

• no backlight;
• The freezer is very small.

When choosing a country refrigerator, you should pay attention not only to the price, but also to the level of energy consumption, chamber volume, and the presence of a freezer. In the category of small cooling devices there are many worthy models that will last at least 10 years.

Recommendations for selection

1. The most important thing is to fit into the dimensions. This is a particularly important point, since country houses often have a small area and compressed space.
2. An important indicator is the level of energy consumption. The refrigerator operates almost 24 hours a day and the higher its class, the more electricity it can save. Class “A” refrigerators with pluses are considered good options.
3. Not every unit is suitable for operation in certain climatic conditions. You should make sure that the chosen option is suitable for the climate zone in which it will work.
4. For a dacha, a refrigerator with electromechanical control is best suited, since there may be increased accumulation of moisture in the dacha.
5. When buying a refrigerator, you need to make sure that there is an autonomous defrosting system (preferably No Frost). In this case, the refrigerator can be left unattended for a long time.
6. If you plan to freeze fresh crops, it is better to purchase a freezer or a refrigerator with a large chamber.
7. High cost is not always a guarantee of high quality and satisfaction of all needs. A properly selected, high-quality and inexpensive domestic refrigerator can better fit into any interior and satisfy all needs.

Watch a video review of a refrigerator for a summer residence

How to choose a mini refrigerator

The reasons for purchasing a compact refrigerator may vary. Miniature models are purchased when there is no need to store a large amount of food, there are problems with free space in the kitchen and you need to use energy sparingly. They can be the best option for a country house, garage and small office or industrial premises.

Features of mini refrigerators

The category of small refrigerators usually includes units no higher than 130 cm.

Their distinctive features:

• small dimensions allowing installation inside a kitchen unit, under a countertop or on a bedside table;
• low noise level as a low-power compressor is required;
• low consumption of materials during manufacturing significantly reduces the cost and price of the product;
• the useful volume of most of these devices lies in the range from 50 to 250 liters;
• low power consumption.

Small dimensions do not prevent their developers from finding original technical solutions and boldly experimenting in the field of design.

How to decide on the size and volume of a mini-fridge

When choosing the size of a small refrigerator, it is important to consider two criteria:

• Dimensions of the niche in which the device is planned to be installed. Mini refrigerators can have a width or height of 45 centimeters.
• In the absence of restrictions on linear dimensions, the most important indicator is the useful volume. You should focus on it based on the expected number of products that you plan to store in the chamber.

Defrosting systems used in mini refrigerators

There is always some amount of water vapor in the air. When cooled, they begin to condense and crystallize, falling out in the form of frost. This leads to a decrease in useful volume and a slowdown in heat exchange processes. Periodic removal of ice is the most important technical operation to ensure normal operation of the unit.

The No Frost automatic defrosting system, implemented on most modern large-sized refrigerators, cannot be used on compact devices due to the rather impressive volumes and additional energy consumption of such equipment.

Therefore, manufacturers offer two alternative options for dealing with ice:

• drip defrosting system;
• manual defrosting system.

Drip defrosting system

The drip principle of ice removal is based on placing a special element in the chamber, on which moisture crystallizes under normal conditions. When the refrigerator reaches the set temperature, the compressor stops. The ice begins to melt, and drops of water collect in the compartment intended for this. The liquid periodically drains or evaporates outside the refrigerator compartment.

Manual defrosting system

Manual defrosting involves turning off the refrigerator, removing food from it and collecting melt water. It should be noted that due to the use of modern thermal insulation materials, this will not have to be done as often as in previous times.

Availability of a freezer

Depending on the purpose of the mini-refrigerator, it consists of one refrigeration compartment or is additionally equipped with a freezer. In the latter case, the space of the apparatus is divided by an internal partition. Often the freezer is located inside the refrigerator compartment. Access to the products is achieved by opening one common or two separate doors.

Mini fridge with freezer.

Features Available in Mini Refrigerators

Miniature refrigerators can be free-standing, built-in, portable, transport, or minibar. Depending on their purpose, they are equipped with various useful functions or devices.

Among them:

• fast cooling option;
• automatic protection against voltage surges;
• door opening alarm;
• antibacterial treatment of internal elements;
• presence of a filter to eliminate odors;
• Possibility of hanging the door on any side.

Even small models sometimes have separate areas for isolated storage of specific products: fish, herbs, fruits and vegetables.

Compact refrigerator design

In the manufacture of housings and internal equipment of mini-refrigerators, metal, durable plastic and tempered glass are usually used. Most often, manufacturers lean towards modern design, but there are also models made in retro style. The leaders in color scheme are traditionally white, gray, silver and completely black devices. Recently, beige, brown and blue products have begun to appear.

Apparatus for a summer residence and its features

Small country refrigerators are usually single-chamber, with the freezer and refrigerator compartments closed by one common door. Such models are suitable for storing prepared food and a small supply of semi-finished products. The freezer compartment is small, and there are also options without a freezer.

Advantages of single-chamber refrigerators:

• compactness;
• low price;

• multifunctionality;
• efficiency.

All devices in this category have a manual defrost type. At least 2-3 times a year they need to be freed from food, defrosted and washed. Frost on the walls increases energy consumption, reduces the internal volume of the freezer and shortens the life of the refrigerator.

Surge protection

Pay attention to the quality of the voltage supply at the dacha. Unfortunately, the further you are from megacities, the greater the risk of power surges and power outages. To protect the unit from breakdown, and yourself from unnecessary expenses, it is better to choose models for your dacha that have special protection against voltage surges.

It is also advisable to use a special voltage stabilizer. It will protect not only the refrigerator, but also the entire network. There are refrigerators that maintain operating temperature in the chambers for quite a long time after a power outage. It’s worth taking a closer look at such units if repair teams tend to be in no hurry to fix breakdowns in the power supply of your holiday village.

ATLANT XM 4008-022

If you need a two-chamber refrigerator for storing vegetables and fruits in the countryside in winter, then pay attention to the XM 4008-22 model from the Belarusian brand ATLANT. Despite its small size, the device has a volume of 244 liters, of which as many as 76 liters are allocated for the freezer. In our rating, this is the highest indicator, and therefore, even as a refrigerator for the home, the ATLANT XM 4008-022 will be an excellent option. The minimum possible temperature in the freezer is -18 degrees, so you can store various preparations or semi-finished products in it. The freezing capacity here is small, only 3 kilograms per day. However, for the dacha option this indicator is not critical. The autonomous cooling time and noise level in the XM 4008-022 model are 17 hours and 39 dB, respectively, which is also very good for the price.

Advantages:

• large volume
• spacious freezer
• high-quality assembly, quite compact dimensions

Flaws:

• not available for the price

Types of refrigerator defrosting systems

When choosing a suitable refrigerator model, special attention should be paid to studying the defrosting system. Modern refrigerators use the following types of defrosting, in particular:

• manual or traditional, which was typical for refrigerators of recent times;
• drip;
• automatic;
• semi-automatic;
• No frost.

After determining the purpose and tasks that the refrigerator should perform, you can begin to select the type of device. Since stores offer a wide selection of refrigeration equipment, you should first decide which type of refrigerator is most preferable for your conditions, and not succumb to advertising and persuasion from sellers.

Without going into details of the design of a particular unit, we can divide the options acceptable for a summer residence into several groups:

• portable refrigerators,
• compressor options,
• single- and double-chamber full-fledged devices.

If you spend little time at your summer cottage, for example, one day off a week, it makes no sense to buy a full-fledged refrigeration unit. A small mobile option will save you money. In addition, it is very compact, takes up virtually no space, and can be used in any (even the smallest) country house.

Such mobile devices can be divided into several types.

• Containers and bags with isothermal properties.

Isothermal bags are small in size, usually not connected to the network, and the storage time of food in them depends on the cold accumulators. If you plan to use this option, it's worth stocking up on extra batteries, so you can keep your food fresh for much longer.

• Mini refrigerators equipped with compressors.

In fact, this is an ordinary compressor device, made in small dimensions and capable of maintaining the temperature for some time without electricity. After arriving at the site, you can connect it to the network and use it like a regular refrigerator.

• Absorption refrigerators. They are gaining more and more popularity. They are convenient to use at the cottage or while traveling. They can be electric or gas. Some models may be able to connect to a car's electrical outlet, and if you have an adapter, you can connect them to a regular outlet. They can have a fairly impressive usable volume (up to 200 liters), which is enough for most summer residents.

A compact compressor refrigerator is no longer so convenient for transportation and is needed in order to install it indoors. It is advantageous due to its small size. Usually it does not have a freezer, or it is very small. Moreover, the working space in such models can reach 200 liters, which is more than enough for a small family.

Full-size options are necessary for those who, with a large number of family members, travel out of town for a long time - for example, throughout the summer months. They are also suitable for people who like to receive guests on their site. This option is also suitable for those who harvest the gifts of nature (vegetables or fruits from the plot, mushrooms and berries from the nearest forest).

For storing a large amount of supplies, the most convenient option would be a two-door option, which will allow you to place a large number of products. If you cannot boast of a rich harvest, you can choose a one-door model. It may have a freezer, but it will not be as spacious. The latter option is more convenient to place in a space-saving country house.

Availability of antibacterial coating

Most refrigerators manufactured today include additional protection to ensure long-term preservation of food. A special protective layer is applied to the internal cavity, for which inorganic silver is used. This allows you to provide protection from foreign odors, as well as from the proliferation of microorganisms that cause spoilage of products.

Are you using a traditional refrigerator model? Then use the tips outlined in the article How to remove odor from the refrigerator?

Shivaki SHRF-106CHS

Next up is the SHRF-106CHS model with a simple but attractive appearance. This country version of the refrigerator from Shivaki has many advantages, such as A+ energy consumption class, minimal weight and high-quality assembly. The maximum noise for the model in question is 42 dB. It is noteworthy that, given the rather small size, the refrigerator turned out to be quite spacious. The total volume here is 103 liters, of which 10 are reserved for the freezer compartment. There are no additional functions here, which is quite reasonable for a cost of about 9,000 rubles. But manually defrosting the refrigerator compartment can be a disadvantage if the device does not turn off for a long time. Otherwise, we have one of the best refrigerators in terms of reliability, design and build quality.

Advantages:

• excellent build and durable body
• low noise levels and energy consumption
• ergonomic appearance
• attractive appearance

Flaws:

• manual defrosting of the refrigerator compartment
• no backlight

Portable models

The brand of refrigerator for a summer residence can be absolutely any, depending on your preferences. However, some well-known manufacturers of household appliances do not produce compact options at all. Among them are Samsung, LG, Electrolux. The most popular brands among users are Biryusa, Saratov, Atlant, Shivaki or Liebherr.

Among the fairly large models for the dacha, the following are especially popular:

• "Saratov 45". This single-door unit is equipped with a 150-liter refrigerator and a 15-liter freezer.
• “Indesit SD125” is a refrigerator with a capacity of 197 liters, and a freezer with a capacity of 28 – sufficient volume for a family’s permanent residence.
• Atlant MX2822 – 190 liters of refrigeration and 30 liters of freezer space. It has electromechanical control, convenient, cheap and quiet. Among the shortcomings: flimsy door and handle.

The average models are remembered by consumers for the following representatives:

• "Indesit TT85T". This refrigerator is light and easy to transport, compact and roomy. It has a built-in freezer and shelves made of metal lattice. Users note good cooling in both chambers. I also like the quiet operation of the device. The disappointment is caused by his not very stable work.
• "Biryusa 8". A fairly roomy and convenient model with a small freezer. Has a useful volume of 150 liters. Inside there are two shelves and two drawers that allow you to conveniently place supplies. It's easy to use, quiet, powerful and reliable.
• "Daewoo FR-132A". A compact device of 120 liters with a freezer of only 9 liters. Has guides for moving shelves and a drawer. It is distinguished by the presence of drip defrosting, thanks to which it can be left for a long time. Reliable, ergonomic and pleasant to use.

Among miniature models, preference is given to the following representatives:

• "Atlant MHTE 30-01-60". 30-liter model, reliable and cheap. Suitable for a cottage or bar. During operation it is slightly noisy.
• "SHIVAKI SHRF-54CH". It has a modest volume of 50 liters, but is very compact and roomy at the same time. It is characterized by low electricity consumption, functionality and quality at low cost.

Indesit ITR 4160 W

Indesit ITR 4160 W

The stylish two-chamber refrigerator has a “Super Freeze” function, which allows you to prepare an impressive amount of food for long-term storage in a few minutes. The “Super Cooling” mode works on the same principle. All necessary information about the temperature inside the compartments can be monitored on the display.

If the refrigerator door is accidentally left open, an automatic alarm will sound. The volume of the refrigerator compartment is 285 liters, the freezer compartment is 78 liters. The legs are height adjustable. The freezer is located at the bottom, it has a separate door, and there are 3 drawers inside. Freezing capacity - 4 kg per day.

Tesler RC-55 Silver

pros

• quiet operation
• presence of a freezer
• temperature control
• work at air temperatures up to +40º C

Minuses

• manual defrost
• high price

From 7190 ₽

Compact model with adjustable temperature. Easy to carry - weight 16 kg. However, installation may be difficult - the door cannot be moved to the other side. The internal volume (50 l) is sufficient for one person. Can be used as a bar. When used in the country, it is quite suitable for a small family.

Hansa FM108.4

Model FM108.4 from the Hansa brand is a refrigerator with convenient compact dimensions, low energy consumption class A+ and low noise level. The total volume of this solution is 86 liters. Of this, in a medium-sized refrigerator manufactured by Hansa, 7 liters are reserved for the freezer compartment. There are no additional functions here, but you can find FM108.4 on sale for only 7,000-8,000 rubles. Among other advantages of this model, one can highlight a fairly high-quality assembly. The metal and plastic used in the design look and feel very reliable. As for the appearance, it is as simple as possible, which can also be called a plus for a country house device.

Advantages:

• high-quality assembly
• low power consumption
• minimum noise level
• low price

Flaws:

• none