New Frontiers for Refrigerators

With features ranging from LED lighting to advanced temperature-control systems and easy-access designs, today's refrigerators bring food storage to a new level. Above all, the fridge you buy today is far more energy efficient than the old model in your kitchen. Fine Homebuilding editor Debra Silber explains the new Energy Star standard and what measures manufacturers are taking to make their fridges more efficient, including variable-speed compressors and better insulation and temperature controls. Custom cooling, air filtering, and specialty hinges that let the refrigerator sit flush with kitchen cabinetry are all on the menu. And there's more, including refrigerator drawers and master suite "morning bars." If you're ready to ditch your fridge right now, Silber tells you how to recycle it.