Freezers

Freezers come in several types including chest freezers, upright freezers, drawer freezers, and portable freezers, each designed to meet different storage and space needs.

Chest freezers are wider, open from the top, and provide more storage capacity with better energy efficiency. Upright freezers stand vertically, have shelves for easy organization, and take up less floor space.

A freezer should be kept at 0°F (-18°C) or below to ensure food stays safely frozen.

Yes. Chest freezers generally use less energy and hold cold air better when opened, but upright freezers offer more organization and accessibility.

Most foods can remain safe indefinitely if kept at 0°F, but for best quality, meats, vegetables, and baked goods should be used within 3–12 months depending on the type.

Some freezers require manual defrosting to remove ice buildup, while frost-free models use auto-defrost technology to reduce maintenance.

Yes, but you should choose a garage-ready freezer that can handle extreme temperatures, as standard models may not function properly in hot or cold environments.

For households, a good rule is 1.5 cubic feet of freezer space per person. Larger freezers are recommended for bulk food storage or meal prep.

Modern freezers are energy-efficient and consume relatively little electricity, especially Energy Star–rated models. Chest freezers tend to use less energy than uprights.

Important features include adjustable shelves, interior lighting, temperature controls, frost-free operation, lockable doors, and alarms for high temperature or open doors.