Why I spent Sh370,000 on a fridge

What is that one gadget that has made your life easier?

My Sh370,000 Food showcase refrigerator also called a ‘Fridge in Fridge’.

Where did you purchase it from?

It was imported four years ago from the Samsung headquarters in Korea when we were remodelling our house. I wanted a unique kitchen but it left me Sh3m broke but I like it so much.

 What do you love about it?

The fact that the foods – whether containerised or left open – do not absorb smells from the fridge or from other foods. These functions are aided by the deodorising filter that eliminates fridge smell that changes original smell of the foods in the fridge. Then there is the solar deodoriser that prevents absorption of smells between foods. In fact, the solar deodoriser is removable and can be charged/ionised by leaving it to busk in the sun for better efficiency and energy saving.

 What challenge do you face while using the fridge?

Initially, setting the right temperatures for the foods can be a challenge. I once changed the freezer temperatures only to find that the frozen foods had begun to thaw. I had to reset the temperatures back to default factory settings.

I notice that unlike most fridges this one has the freezer at the bottom. Is that by preference or default?

That was no sheer coincidence. I prefer a bottom freezer since it allows the fridge, which is the most used part, to be at eye level hence, less bending. Also, it prevents the cold freezer air from flowing directly to the kids faces especially when their nanny is carrying them, hence less cold cases.

The design and colour of the fridge is also eye-catching. Is that something you went out of your way to look out for when purchasing the fridge?

Yes. I needed a fridge that would blend in with my kitchen and the stainless steel grey- black does just that. Also the recessed handles occupy less space and allow the door to open easily. This make of fridge, which they call the island design, is designed to fit within any kitchen space.

 What has been your experience like using the fridge so far?

It has been interesting. With its different zones and customisable baskets it has made organisation better, allowing me to store more in the fridge and it is faster to find food. The snack and kids cases, which are at the bottom are detachable and can be placed directly on the table further enhancing its usability. The door drawers are spacious and the fridge door is so stable that it does not swing when the door drawers are heavy with food.

Does not storing more food pose a greater risk for, say, when you are not home for long periods?

Quite the contrary. I can always turn the fridge into a freezer and have my food all frozen for prolonged life.

What misconception can you clear out about the fridge?

I used to think that the reason Samsung replaced the normal fridge lights with the LED lights is because the LED lights are cheaper. Actually, it is because the LED lights do not emit any heat, hence, the food is not further cooked. It is also twice as bright as the normal lights.

What fascinating thing have you learned about the fridge that you did not know before?

That the reason it makes no noise on closing the fridge after leaving it open for long periods of time is due to the new technology that uses a digital inverter compressor, which not only saves on energy but also restores the fridge temperature instantly and accurately once you close the fridge door. The inverter also senses humidity, helping in reducing freezer burn and maintaining the quality of frozen food. Samsung is so confident on this technology that they have a ten year warranty on the compressor.

What advice would you give a lady who is in the process of buying a fridge?

Go for what suits you. A four-door fridge would be a waste to a single lady but work very well for a large family.