Is a Smart Fridge Worth It?

Your initial response to the idea of a smart fridge may have been an eyeball roll, a scoff, or any number of other disdainful reactions. Why spend extra money for smart features on something as basic as a refrigerator? What can a smart fridge do that's so essential? As long as your food's cold, what more do you really need?

Don't be so quick to dismiss. A smart fridge's whiz-bang technology may seem excessive at first glance, but a deeper look may reveal that many of the high-tech features deserve your attention. Here are some benefits of a smart fridge that may convince you it's worth the investment.

Energy Efficiency

If environmental friendliness is a priority for your home, a smart fridge should be on your radar. A refrigerator with awareness of a 24-hour day has the capability to monitor energy use throughout the day, allowing you to use the information to make energy-saving adjustments. For instance, many models can be programmed to only defrost during "off" hours, like between late night and early morning. If you know your fridge won't be opened for a few days due to a vacation or any other reason, most models offer an easily-activated energy-saver mode, and many smart fridges have a smartphone app that allows you to change the mode from any WiFi-connected place. A common smart fridge highlight is an interior camera, and while this feature may have been what caused the aforementioned scoffing, it does allow you to see where everything is before opening the refrigerator door. A smart fridge with a camera makes it possible for a quick open-and-grab instead of an extended period of rummaging around with the door wide open. If you're keen to go green, a smart fridge is certainly worth a look.

Integration with Your Smart Home Network

If you've got a smart home network, a smart fridge with a screen gives you the ability to add a convenient kitchen-based hub. The screen can be used for viewing a smart doorbell camera, tweaking your thermostat, adjusting smart lighting, and more. Whether you're in the kitchen cooking, tidying up, or just hanging out with family or friends, you'll have a smart home command center right at your fingertips!

Standalone Benefits of a Smart Fridge

If you're considering a smart fridge but haven't quite reached the home-network level of smart technology, that's okay. Most smart fridges have features that you can enjoy with WiFi alone. A smart fridge app allows you to control the fridge's internal temperature, receive alerts if a door is left open, or add to a shopping list. If your fridge includes a touchscreen, use it for calendar alerts or notes, a way to clearly display online recipes, or for streaming music while you're cooking. If you do decide to create a smart home network later down the road, your fridge will be ready to become part of it.

The Novelty

Future-proofing isn't just for computers or mobile phones - smart technology is becoming so ubiquitous, it's not a bad idea to consider it for appliances, too. You don't often bring home an appliance that's meant to last at least ten years, so why not buy the most up-to-date version possible? Technology is moving faster than ever; when you've got an opportunity to upgrade, take it!

Finding the perfect smart fridge for sale is easy when you shop with P.C. Richard & Son. We offer a variety of smart appliances, as well as other smart home technology and accessories, all at the guaranteed lowest prices.