I see a lot of classy-vintage items around me these days. Whether it’s a wall clock or a piece of furniture, people are once again gravitating toward a retro style. Retro refrigerators are a hot new trend that you might like. We are enamored with the concept of having a retro refrigerator in a kitchen, which would contrast with the rest of the decor!
Vintage refrigerators might be a good choice if you want all of your appliances to harmonize in a harmonious way. You may create the kitchen of your dreams with this refrigerator. Cool, isn’t it? However, with many retro refrigerators in the matter, where can you start. Don’t worry we’ve got you covered!
Is Retro Fridge a New Trend?
Nostalgia is a huge trend across industries. People are gravitating towards retro style appliances like refrigerators, coffee makers, ovens, and more, that give them a connection to the past.
Kristiana Laugen, home expert at Handy.
Some of us are just proponents of retro style, and this desire includes even kitchen appliances. Others argue that it’s not just a matter of style. Because retro refrigerators connect us to memories from the past and remind us of the good old days when life was simpler and less complicated. Moreover, many people who have a new retro refrigerator in the house get rid of other appliances (including the washing machine and dryer) to reflect the worldview of those times.
But modern retro refrigerators aren’t just about style. Although they mimic old-school style, at the same time, modern Retro models are very much functional and can be equipped with new technology and innovative features to keep up with the times. Such appliances can include Wi-Fi, kitchen apps and time management tools to help make life easier.
So your new retro refrigerator will bring not only retro design, but also modern trends in technology into your life.
Retro Style on Your Kitchen
Retro fridge is ideal if you’re looking for a modern look with a retro vibe in your home. For this reason, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to discover one to fit your kitchen’s design, the size and the right volume inside, because retro refrigerators are mostly smaller than average – most are 9 to 12 cubic feet, which means they’re saviors for small spaces! Retro refrigerators are best for apartments, small homes, or for families who don’t store tons of food at a time. That said, it’s not impossible to find a retro style refrigerator in a more standard size. Either way, these retro refrigerators will give your kitchen a whole new style.
As usual, retro refrigerator has a stamped metal body and real chrome accents; most of them are made in candy colors with a glossy finish and have a rectangular shape with rounded corners.
Retro Refrigerators: FAQ
What is the oldest brand of refrigerator?
The first refrigerators for home use were invented in 1913. In 1923, Frigidaire introduced the self-contained unit which would become an iconic symbol of convenience throughout America’s kitchen appliance history!
What refrigerant is used in old and modern refrigerators?
The first refrigerators to be invented in the 1800s used toxic gases, like ammonia and methyl chloride. They also employed chlorofluorocarbon gas which is known today for its role as an environmentally harmful refrigerant.
Scientists in the 1970s discovered that when CFC molecules leaked into Earth’s atmosphere, a chemical change occurred as is exposure. The result was an increase of greenhouse gases and depletion for our ozone layer.
HFCs are a popular choice for use in modern refrigerators because they do not deplete the ozone layer. They contain no chlorine, which means that Hfcs will never harm our atmosphere or have an effect on how well we’re able to breathe.
My Grandma doesn’t want to part with her old fridge made in the 1970s. Is it really great?
Surely! They worked for decades with zero maintenance. I pulled a compressor out of one which I used for an automotive HVAC vacuum pump for many years. Some of the 1950s high-end models were simply works of art, especially inside. They had chrome trim, fancy plastic emblems on the fronts of the drawers, and so on. Those are the ones that really draw top dollars today because they are so rare.
Did anybody restore a vintage refrigerator? How much could it cost?
My wife wants an oak 8 door icebox that’s been retrofitted with modern refrigeration system. A few were fitted in 30s, but now it seems like they’re starting to fit them commercial Frigidaire systems too.
Restoration and conversion is an expensive endeavor. The cost to restore or convert an unrestored 8 door McCray can be anywhere from $4,000 – 5k (depending on how bad it needs work). And it will set your budget back at least 2 days worth of travel time across borders!
Is it worth buying anything vintage including refrigerators from the 50’s & 60’s?
Of course, there’s the old ice cream freezer from Kelvinator that nobody wants – but still works! It isn’t high tech enough for people in today’s world though. If you ever check out home design sites, you’ll see it starting to become fashionable to have an old fridge in the kitchen. Usually, they’re brand new replicas, and have all actual specifications. Take them if you don’t want problems.
Comparison Table & Main Features
[amazon table=”17415″]Main Features to Pay Attention in Spite of Style
An important selection must be made before buying a vintage fridge. There are a plethora of choices to be made as soon as a purchase is made, whether it’s through an online store or a physical store. When purchasing a vintage refrigerator, here are some things to keep in mind.
| 1. Size | Size is always the most important quality to consider when purchasing a refrigerator. For comparison, a typical household refrigerator can hold between 12 and 20 cubic feet of food. If you’re a smaller party, you can get by with a smaller french door, but if you’re a larger one, a larger one is the better choice. |
| 2. Capacity | Everyone has varied needs when it comes to a refrigerator, whether you’re a party animal who wants to keep cans of beer in the fridge or a family man who needs a place to put food. Each demand necessitates a refrigerator with a distinct capacity. So, it’s a good idea to figure out how much power you’ll need for your fridge in advance. |
| 3. Energy Consumption | The annual operating expenses of vintage refrigerators can be compared by checking for EnergyGuide, Energy Star, or any other energy certification stickers. Saving money, in the long run, can be achieved by purchasing an energy-efficient refrigerator. |
| 4. Noise Level | Consider the noise level of your refrigerator. This may not even be a problem for some customers. For those who have children or are renting out a short-term rental apartment in the middle of the night, you’ll want to look for a quiet fridge that won’t disturb up your sleeping guests or your infant. Consider the noise level of your refrigerator. In order for a refrigerator to be as quiet as possible, it must have a variety of components, including compressors and condensers, evaporator fans, and various cooling methods. |
| 5. Door Design | Unique, diversified, and classy designs distinguish vintage refrigerators from other types of normal refrigerators. If you think retro refrigerators are outdated, we’re here to tell you that this is not the case. Refrigerators from decades ago are always in style. Intricate lines and a clean, unadorned exterior make it impossible to grow tired of it. The old refrigerator has a wide variety of colors. In spite of this, the majority of antique refrigerators can be found in calming primary hues such as sky blue or pastel green, as well as black, white, or grey. |
| 6. Freezer Location | Ensure that the refrigerator you’re considering has a freezer. No matter why you’re buying one, it’s a necessity to have one. In addition to ice cream and meat, you’ll receive other items that you may need to keep in the freezer. So, look for a refrigerator with a freezer whether it’s in the bottom or the top of the fridge. |
| 7. Smart Feature | Look for the smart home capabilities that many refrigerators now have and see if they’ll be useful to you. Do you want a refrigerator that can safely hold your shopping list? Is there a grocery app included? Or do you want one that does not require you to open the door? You can even have a silent refrigerator with all of these advantages. |
| 8. Warranty | You can’t avoid the cost of a refrigerator. It’s expensive to buy and even more expensive to fix this important equipment. A refrigerator warranty, on the other hand, may cover all or part of the repair costs. A refrigerator warranty might be a manufacturer’s warranty, an extended warranty, or a house warranty. A home warranty, on the other hand, covers a variety of home systems and appliances in addition to the first two. Pick a vintage fridge that can cover all the above-mentioned unexpected expenses. |
1. Top Freezer: Galanz GLR10TRDEFR Retro Refrigerator
[amazon box=”B07R11HWBW”]Galanz GLR10TRDEFR SPECIFICATIONS
| Material Type | ABS+METAL+GLASS+FOAMING+PAPER |
| Weight | 125.7 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 23.74 x 27.48 x 61.81 inches |
| Configuration | Freezer-on-Top |
| Capacity | 10 Cubic Feet |
| Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity | 7.42 Cubic Feet |
| Freezer Capacity | 2.42 Cubic Feet |
| Temperature Ranges | Refrigerator compartment 32℉ to 47℉, freezer compartment<=0℉ |
| Low-Noise | 42 dB |
| Installation Type | Freestanding |
| Special Features | Energy efficient LED interior light, 2 leveling front legs, adjustable electrical thermostat control |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Defrost | Automatic defrost |
| Door Hinges | From left to right |
| Included Components | 4 Removable glass shelves, 1 Crystal Crisper, 1 Power Cord |
| Energy-Saving | Uses R600a high-efficiency and low-energy consumption compressor, it can cool food quickly with lower energy |
| Certification | Energy Star rated |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 292 Kilowatt Hours Per Year |
With its retro aesthetic and frost-free top freezer design, this Galanz 10.0 cu.ft. retro style refrigerator brings a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen, rec room, or home office, while also storing snacks and beverages at a cool temperature.
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High-Quality Design
With an adjustable temperature, a separate freezer section, excellent internal illumination, and a door shelf with a vegetable crisper, this refrigerator is designed to make your life a lot easier.
Crystal Crisper and Retro-Style Handles
There is a lot of room in this retro fridge for you to store your food and vegetables. Open or close with ease thanks to the retro-style handles.
Overall
This refrigerator with a retro red design can surely brighten up any workplace. You can also keep your food and beverages cool and fresh in your kitchen with a retro refrigerator.
Check price at Galanz.com, Homedepot.com, Walmart.com.
Video: Galanz Mini Retro Fridge Review! Pros vs Cons
2. Bottom Freezer: Smeg 50’s Retro Style Aesthetic Refrigerator
[amazon box=”B07X52GHKB”]Smeg 50’s Retro Style Aesthetic SPECIFICATIONS
| Weight | 113.000 kg |
| Product Dimensions | 30.25 x 24 x 77.5 inches |
| Capacity | 9 Cubic Feet |
| Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity | 8.26 Cubic Feet |
| Low-Noise | 37 dB |
| Installation Type | Freestanding |
| Storage | 3 adjustable glass shelves, 1 bottle storage shelf, 1 bin and 2 adjustable bins on the door |
| Cooling Method | Multiflow Cooling System |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Defrost | Automatic |
| Door Hinges | Left |
| Lock Type | Electronic |
| Certification | Energy Star rated |
| Energy Use | 378 Kilowatt Hours |
Combining style and substance to perfection, Smeg’s products are a perfect example of the company’s ability to supply both. With its nostalgic appeal heightened by a magnificent hue of pastel blue, this two-door refrigerator is yet another example: a bold and attractive design statement in your kitchen!
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Large Capacity
In the kitchen, Smeg’s FAB fridge is generally a standout feature. Its rounded curves, chromed embellishments, and vibrant colors are vital statements of style and personality.. With a 70cm width and a sizable capacity, the new FAB38 is the ideal storage solution.
Elegant Finishes and Iconic Details
The refrigerator’s interior and exterior doors are flawlessly matched by rounded contours and chrome accents. Glass shelves and balconies are decorated with brilliant chrome finishes in a classic style.
Overall
Smeg’s typical commitment to the best production standards is evident in this appliance, which looks like it belongs in a retro-chic 1950s kitchen. Plus, its internal doors and shelves can be changed to different heights and readily removed for cleaning in order to maximize the available space. Check price at Smeg.com, Abt.com, Appliancesconnection.com.
Video: 50s Retro Smeg Refrigerator FAB38URWH Review
3. Compact Refrigerator: FRIGIDAIRE EFR376 Retro Bar Fridge Refrigerator
[amazon box=”B084GSR67L”]Frigidaire EFR376 SPECIFICATIONS
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
| Weight | 54.8 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 20 x 22 x 35 inches |
| Capacity | 3.2 cu ft, 2.95 cu. ft. fresh food compartment and .25 cu. ft. freezer compartment |
| Installation Type | Freestanding. Compact size allows for placement of this refrigerator virtually anywhere there is an electrical outlet |
| Defrost | Manual |
| Shelves | Adjustable wire shelf lets you customize your refrigerator to meet your food storage needs |
| Door Shelves | 2 door compartment shelves allows for easy storage of single cans and well as a 2 liter bottle |
| Freezer Compartment | Full-width Freezer Compartment with Ice Cube Tray |
| Door | Reversible door allows for many additional placement options. Stainless steel look pull handle adds to the retro look |
| Design | Stainless steel look decorative embellishments give this refrigerator that cool sophisticated look |
| Extra Feature | Opening bottles is a breeze with this built-in side bottle opener |
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Size
This model is a little refrigerator, just like a mini-fridge. As long as there’s a power outlet nearby, you can keep the fridge just about anywhere you want to. In a dorm room or a shared studio apartment, this compact fridge will come in handy. It doesn’t take up a lot of room, and it works perfectly.
Performance
You’ll never have a problem with this fridge’s performance. As a result, you’ll be able to extend the shelf-life of your food and beverages. The freezer section also works wonderfully and will keep your fresh and frozen food fresh for the longest time possible.
Overall
The Frigidaire Retro Bar Fridge might be just what you’re looking for. You can’t go wrong with this! Although the fridge appears modest from the outside, it has a lot of space within. It’s also a great performer because it cools things really effectively. Check price at Frigidairedealin.com, Homedepot.com, Lowes.com, Walmart.com.
Video: FRIGIDAIRE EFR376-BLACK 3.2 Cu Ft Black Retro Bar Fridge Review
4. Undercounter Refrigerator: Antarctic Star Compact Mini Refrigerator Separate Freezer
[amazon box=”B07Z4Q46CZ”]Antarctic Star Compact Mini SPECIFICATIONS
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
| Weight | 63.9 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 19.1 x 20 x 33.5 inches |
| Configuration | Freezer-on-Top |
| Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feet |
| Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity | 2.24 Cubic Feet |
| Freezer Capacity | 0.93 Cubic Feet |
| Temperature Ranges | Refrigerator compartment 32′ to 50′ F, / Freezer compartment 3′ to -1’F |
| Noise | 38 dB |
| Installation Type | Freestanding |
| Top Style | Smooth top |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Wattage | 60 watts |
| Door Hinges | Reversible |
| Lighting | LED |
| Shelves | 3, Removable, Glass |
| Cooling Method | Compressor |
| Certification | Energy Star rated |
The black and white exterior of this refrigerator lends a refined look. It may be used in the home, dorm rooms, tiny office spaces, garages, workshops, and more, and it can complement any of your furniture.
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Versatile in Small Spaces
For dorm rooms, office cafeterias, Motorhomes, bars, and other tiny locations, the Antarctic star blue micro-fridges are ideal. -1°F-3°F, 32-50°F, and 7 various temperatures from frigid to coldest are all possible with this device’s temperature control system.
Quiet Operation
It’s possible to operate the fridge in a quiet room thanks to a low-noise compressor. Fill it with your favorite fruits and vegetables and use it as a way to keep track of what you’re eating.
Overall
As a whole, the fridge’s design is sleek and refined. Its quietness is one of its best qualities. Even in the middle of the night, you won’t hear a peep from it. Stylish retro appearance and more storage than a typical mini-fridge.
5. Coca-Cola Style: Nostalgia Coca-Cola CRF32CK 3.2 Cu. Ft.
[amazon box=”B08MV8MY6J”]Nostalgia Coca-Cola CRF32CK SPECIFICATIONS
| Weight | 52 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 19 x 18.5 x 31.75 inches |
| Capacity | 3.2 Cubic Feet |
| Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity | 2.4 Cubic Feet |
| Freezer Capacity | 0.8 Cubic Feet |
| Temperature Ranges | 32°F – 50°F |
| Installation Type | Freestanding |
| Lock Type | Electronic |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Finish Type | Metallic |
| Door Hinges | Reversible |
| Coca-Cola Style | Classically-styled Coca-Cola bottle opener are reminiscent of the charismatic charm of the 1950s |
| Storage | 2 frameless slide-out glass shelves with spill prevention guards, along with an 8-count soda can dispenser, 2-liter tall bottle storage and condiment shelf fit a variety of foods and beverages |
| Cooling Method | Compressor |
| Accessories | Includes an ice cube tray, ice scraper and freezer drip tray |
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Cheek Design and Adjustable Thermostat
There are two slide-out glass shelves, a freezer compartment, and two-liter bottle storage, and a can dispenser built into the interior of the door in the spacious interior of the refrigerator. The adjustable thermostat is operated by a simple dial control and ensures that food is kept at the correct temperature.
Metal Bottle Opener Included
Featuring a distinctive metal bottle opener and chrome handle, the exterior gives just the right amount of nostalgia and utility to any home office, recreation room, dorm room, or another setting.
Overall
This fridge has it all! A slide-out glass shelf with spill protection guards, an 8-count soda can dispenser, 2-liter tall bottle storage, and a condiment shelf can hold a wide variety of food and beverage items. Plus, a NOSTALGIC coca-cola design! Check price at Nostalgiaproducts.com, Homedepot.com, Walmart.com.
Video: Nostalgia Coca-Cola Series RRF300SDBCOKE 3.2 Cubic Foot Refrigerator Review
6. Beverage Refrigerator: HCK 4.1 cu.ft. Retro Fridge 162 Cans Mini Fridge
[amazon box=”B097G33NV1″]HCK 4.1 cu.ft. Retro Fridge SPECIFICATIONS
| Weight | 87.8 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 21.65 x 21.85 x 32.87 inches |
| Capacity | 4.1 cu.ft. |
| Voltage | 110 Volts(AC) |
| Door Hinges | Right |
| Shelves | 4 adjustable shelves + 1 bottom bracket to hold drinks of different heights |
| Certification | UL |
| Design | Features classic 80° arc design integration |
| Door | Double pane tempered glass door |
| Temperature Ranges | From 32°F to 50°F (0℃ to 10℃) |
| Eco-Friendly | Utilizes an eco-friendly R600a refrigerant that is energy efficient |
| Storage | Holds up to 162 standard-sized drinks cans |
| Cooling Method | Has an advanced cooling system, a whisper-quiet compressor |
| Warranty Service | 1-year warranty service |
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Advanced Cooling Technology
Even distribution of cold air in the beverage cooler is ensured by a whisper-quiet compressor and a sophisticated cooling system in the vintage beverage cooler. With a temperature range of 32 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 10 degrees Celsius), this thermostat is quite accurate.
Eco-Friendly and Quiet
The R600a refrigerant used in the HCK vintage beverage refrigerator is environmentally safe and energy-efficient. It has no effect on the ozone layer and does not contribute to global warming. You can keep your beverages at the proper temperature without creating any noise with a 39 dB low-level noise output.
Overall
The product comes with a one-year warranty. You can trust that HCK will do everything in its power to ensure that you get the best service possible. Check price at HCK-cool.com, Walmart.com.
In Conclusion
As with old automobiles, Retro Fridges have a nostalgic flavor and vibrant, sometimes outlandish, colors that don’t get utilized anymore. So, if you’re looking to inject some character into your home, this is a very right option! There is no substitute for Grandma’s homemade pies and gravy, but they may certainly bring back memories of her whenever you eat one. If you’re looking to have a good time for many years to come, an old-fashioned refrigerator can be worth the extra money you invest.
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