Photo: Whirlpool

Freezers are the quiet soliders of the kitchen, and though we don’t often realise it, they are vital in making modern life more convenient. A freezer is invaluable because it makes cooking, food preparation and storage much easier. Freezers enable you to minimise shopping trips by allowing you to buy in bulk and store foods for long periods of time. Very busy people can cook in bulk and store food in the freezer for quick heat-and-go meals during the week. Fresh fruit and vegetables can be frozen in season and then used year-round. For the elderly or those with reduced mobility, freezers can be used to stock up on food and save a few trips to the store during the cold winter months. Keeping a decent supply of food in the freezer also comes in handy when unexpected visitors arrive.

How to choose

Consider the type and size of the freezer you intend on purchasing. Deep freezers are useful if you have a large family and freeze large quantities of food, but usually are not equipped with self-defrost or frost-free systems. For most families, upright freezers are ideal, as they provide more than enough storage and often come with many additional features and are usually frost-free. Under-counter and countertop freezers add extra convenience and space, and are great for more focused uses (as a minibar, for example) or in kitchens, flats, and student residences where space is at a premium.

In general freezers consume little electricity, but it is important to check the energy rating before purchase. Freezers are rated for their energy consumption alphabetically, where grades of ‘A’ or higher (‘A+’, ‘A++’) are deemed most efficient and ‘G’ is least efficient. The difference in energy costs between an A-rated freezer and even a C-rated freezer often enters the three-figure range, so you should choose wisely when considering your next freezer.

The perfect fit

Freezers are sold in many variations, and in additional to ubiquitous white, appear in many different finishes – they can even be integrated behind your existing cabinetry for a seamless look. Many also offer extra features such as door alarms, locks, LED displays, and electronic temperature controls.

Food freezing tips

For maximum efficiency, cool foods slightly before freezing them. In the freezer, lay foods flat until fully frozen, at which point they can be stacked – but remember to keep some space between foods to ensure even freezing and air distribution. Don’t freeze canned foods until they have been removed from the can. For best results, freeze foods at peak quality. Experts recommend that you over-wrap meats and other items intended for prolonged freezing. Label foods for easy identification. If you’re freezing liquids, leave a bit of room in the packaging to allow for expansion.

After freezing, cut any freezer-burned spots out of food either before or after cooking. To be safe, only thaw foods in cold water, in the fridge, or in the microwave.

To be safe, only thaw foods in cold water, the fridge (uncooked items thawed in the fridge can be re-frozen), or the microwave.

Tags: freezers