Popular Products > Appliances > Fridge freezers

Refrigerators (or fridges) and freezers come in different sizes, shapes and colours. The modern fridge comes mostly combined with freezers above or below the fridge, or even at the side. Some fridges may not have a freezer attached but just a small unit for the ice. Some freezers may be split into two or have compartments. Sometimes, fridges and freezers may be built into a modular kitchen or they may be bought separately.

Fridges help store food that would otherwise get spoilt quickly at room temperature. Bacterial growth is far slower at lower temperatures. The fridge maintains the temperature above freezing point and in freezers the temperature is below freezing point. Most freezers maintain temperature at -18o C.

Household fridges were introduced in 1915 by General Electric but were relatively unsafe as they used ammonia gas for cooling. By 1930, prices for refrigerators had fallen and they had entered American households in a big way, thanks to the usage of safer non-toxic, non-flammable synthetic refrigerants such as R12. The refrigerators gained a similar popularity in UK households but not until the 1970s.

Icehouses were the earliest form of cool storage. The first known artificial refrigeration system was demonstrated by Michael Faraday in 1748. But it was only at the beginning of the 19th century that major strides in refrigeration technology took place. Companies like Kelvinator and Servel quickly joined General Electric on the bandwagon, and the market saw many brands and models emerging.

With refrigerators gaining acceptability, major lifestyle changes took place. The modern family was now able to buy food essentials in bulk which was more economical and store, freeze and preserve food in a fresh state for a longer time. Added to this was the convenience of supermarkets and the option of purchasing everything under one roof. Dairy products, poultry, vegetables and meat could all be stored for weeks. This also contributed to a many people having a healthier lifestyle as it was possible to store and consume more salads, vegetables and fruits. One further advantage was that ice cream was no longer a luxury and could be enjoyed by all!