Imagine opening your refrigerator and seeing all your food perfectly organized, with easy access to everything. No more digging around for that last carton of milk or a forgotten jar of pickles! But when it comes to choosing a 42-inch side-by-side refrigerator, the sheer number of choices can feel overwhelming. You want a fridge that fits your kitchen, keeps your food fresh, and doesn’t break the bank. Figuring out which one is best can be a real puzzle.
This is where we come in! We know how tricky it can be to sort through all the features and brands. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel much more confident about picking the perfect 42-inch side-by-side refrigerator for your home. We’ll break down what to look for, highlight some great options, and help you avoid common mistakes.
So, let’s dive in and discover how to find a refrigerator that makes your kitchen life a whole lot easier, one perfectly organized shelf at a time.
Our Top 5 42 Inch Side By Side Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 42 Inch Side By Side Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Viking Professional 5 Series 42″ Built-In Side By Side Refrigerator
Rating: 8.6/10
The Viking Professional 5 Series 42″ Built-In Side By Side Refrigerator brings top-tier performance and style to your kitchen. It’s designed to keep your food at the perfect temperature and make life easier for busy families.
What We Like:
- ProChill Temperature Management keeps your food incredibly fresh. It makes sure the temperature stays just right for all your groceries, from delicate produce to meats.
- The latest in Spill Control Technology means messes are no big deal. Spills are contained, so cleanup is quick and easy.
- New LED Lighting brightens up the inside of the fridge. You can easily see everything, even in the back corners.
- Filter-Free Freshness is a huge plus. You don’t have to worry about buying or changing filters, saving you time and money.
- Its spacious 42-inch side-by-side design offers plenty of room for all your food.
- The built-in style looks sleek and modern in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial investment can be quite high.
- While the filter-free system is great, some users might miss the convenience of a water dispenser.
- Installation requires professional help, which adds to the overall cost.
This Viking refrigerator is an excellent choice for those who value advanced features and a premium look. It offers fantastic food preservation and user-friendly maintenance.
2. GE PROFILE PSB42YSNSS 42″ Built-in Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 24.33 cu. ft. Capacity WiFi Connect Automatic Defrost and Dispenser in Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.4/10
The GE PROFILE PSB42YSNSS 42″ Built-in Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a large, modern appliance that brings convenience and style to your kitchen. Its stainless steel finish looks sleek and fits with many kitchen designs. This refrigerator offers plenty of space for all your groceries, making it ideal for families or those who entertain often. You can connect it to your home WiFi for smart features, and it automatically defrosts, meaning you won’t have to do it yourself. Plus, the dispenser makes getting ice and water super easy.
What We Like:
- Generous 24.33 cu. ft. capacity holds a lot of food.
- WiFi Connect allows for smart home integration and control.
- Automatic Defrost saves you the hassle of manual defrosting.
- Built-in design gives your kitchen a polished, integrated look.
- Side-by-side doors offer easy access to both refrigerator and freezer sections.
- Dispenser provides quick access to chilled water and ice.
- Stainless steel finish is attractive and easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” for specific features suggests some details might be missing or not highlighted, which could be a con for shoppers looking for very specific functionalities.
- Large appliances can sometimes be complex to install and may require professional help.
- While stainless steel looks good, it can show fingerprints, requiring regular wiping.
This refrigerator offers a great blend of capacity, modern features, and a sophisticated look. It’s a strong contender for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a reliable and smart appliance.
3. Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Rating: 9.5/10
The Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a stylish and advanced appliance designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen. Its spacious interior and smart features make organizing your groceries a breeze, while the built-in design offers a clean, modern look. This refrigerator is built for busy households that appreciate both form and function.
What We Like:
- Generous 42-inch width provides ample storage space for families.
- Side-by-side configuration allows easy access to both refrigerator and freezer compartments.
- Smart features offer convenience and enhanced control over your appliance.
- Built-in design creates a sleek, integrated look in your kitchen.
- Modern aesthetics complement various kitchen styles.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” for specific smart features means we couldn’t test or comment on those particular functionalities.
- Without detailed specifications on smart capabilities, it’s hard to gauge its full potential for tech-savvy users.
This refrigerator offers a great foundation for a modern kitchen. While we couldn’t explore all its smart capabilities, its spaciousness and built-in design are definite highlights.
4. Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Dispenser
Rating: 9.3/10
The Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Dispenser brings a touch of modern style and smart technology to your kitchen. Its sleek design fits seamlessly into your cabinetry, offering a built-in look that many homeowners desire. This refrigerator is designed to keep your food fresh and easily accessible, while the integrated dispenser adds convenience for chilled water and ice.
What We Like:
- The spacious 42-inch width provides ample room for groceries.
- The built-in design creates a clean, integrated look in your kitchen.
- The dispenser offers quick access to filtered water and ice.
- Smart features allow for remote control and monitoring.
- The side-by-side layout makes both the refrigerator and freezer sections easily reachable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” feature list means we can’t highlight specific advanced functionalities.
- Installation for a built-in model can be more complex than a freestanding unit.
- Smart appliance prices can sometimes be higher.
This Café™ refrigerator offers a stylish and functional upgrade for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for those seeking both aesthetics and convenience in their major appliances.
5. Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 9.5/10
The Kenmore 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Freezer is a smart choice for your kitchen. It offers plenty of space and cool features to keep your food fresh. This fridge looks great too, with its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish.
What We Like:
- The counter-depth design saves space in your kitchen. It’s 36 inches wide and gives you 20 cubic feet of storage. This is great for families and when you have guests over.
- Accela Chill quickly cools your groceries. The multi-flow air system keeps the temperature even everywhere. Your food stays fresh on every shelf.
- You get fresh, filtered water and ice. The dispenser makes cubed or crushed ice. It’s perfect for cold drinks anytime.
- The adjustable glass shelves are spill-proof. They go from edge to edge. You can easily change the space to fit big items like platters.
- It’s ENERGY STAR Certified. This means it’s energy efficient. The LED lights make it easy to see your food. The inverter compressor is quiet and runs well.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a good capacity, some larger households might wish for even more space.
- The counter-depth design, while space-saving, means the interior storage is a bit more limited compared to a full-depth model.
This Kenmore refrigerator combines style, smart features, and energy efficiency. It’s a solid option for keeping your food organized and your kitchen looking its best.
Your Guide to a 42-Inch Side-by-Side Refrigerator
A 42-inch side-by-side refrigerator is a fantastic choice for many kitchens. It offers a good balance of storage space and a sleek design. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your home.
Why Choose a 42-Inch Side-by-Side?
Side-by-side refrigerators have the freezer on one side and the refrigerator on the other. This layout makes it easy to reach both fresh and frozen foods. A 42-inch width is wider than many standard models, giving you more room for groceries. It fits well in larger kitchens and for families who need extra storage.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these features in mind. They can make a big difference in how you use and enjoy your refrigerator.
- Adjustable Shelving: Look for shelves that you can move up or down. This lets you fit taller items like milk jugs or large platters. Some shelves can also slide or fold.
- Crisper Drawers: These drawers help keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer. Some have special controls to manage humidity.
- Door Bins: Plenty of door bins are great for storing bottles, jars, and condiments. Adjustable bins offer more flexibility.
- Ice and Water Dispenser: Many side-by-side models come with an ice and water dispenser on the door. Some offer filtered water for better taste.
- Temperature Controls: Digital temperature controls allow you to set precise temperatures for both the fridge and freezer.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means the refrigerator uses less electricity, saving you money on your energy bills.
- Smart Features: Some newer models connect to your Wi-Fi. You can control settings with your phone or get alerts if the door is left open.
Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its look, durability, and how easy it is to clean.
- Stainless Steel: This is a very popular finish. It looks modern and is quite strong. However, it can show fingerprints and smudges. Many stainless steel models have a special coating to resist these marks.
- Black Stainless Steel: This offers a sleek, dark look that can hide fingerprints better than regular stainless steel.
- White or Black (Enamel Coated): These are classic finishes. They are usually more affordable and easy to clean.
- Interior Shelving: Glass shelves are common and look nice. They are also easy to wipe clean. Wire shelves are less common in newer models.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a refrigerator better or not as good.
- Build Quality: A well-built refrigerator feels sturdy. The doors should open and close smoothly. The drawers should slide out easily. Good construction means it will last longer.
- Noise Level: Some refrigerators are louder than others. Look for models that mention quiet operation if noise is a concern for you.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable appliances. Reading reviews from other customers can help you learn about a brand’s quality.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows that the manufacturer stands behind their product. It can protect you if something goes wrong.
- Cooling Performance: The refrigerator should cool evenly. There shouldn’t be warm spots or areas that freeze food unexpectedly.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your kitchen and how much food you store will help you decide.
- For Families: A 42-inch side-by-side is perfect for families. It holds a lot of groceries. The easy access to both fridge and freezer is great for busy households. Kids can easily reach snacks in the refrigerator.
- For Entertaining: If you often host parties, this size offers plenty of space for drinks and appetizers. You can keep extra food items chilled or frozen.
- For Meal Preppers: Those who like to prepare meals in advance will appreciate the large freezer capacity. You can store many pre-portioned meals.
- For Limited Kitchen Space: While 42 inches is wide, a side-by-side design doesn’t require as much clearance to open the doors compared to some French door models. This can be helpful in tighter spaces.
Choosing the right refrigerator means thinking about your needs. With this guide, you’re ready to find a 42-inch side-by-side that fits your kitchen and your life perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much space do I really need for a 42-inch side-by-side refrigerator?
A: You’ll need at least 42 inches of width for the refrigerator itself. Also, make sure you have space for the doors to open fully, usually about 15-20 inches on the side where the refrigerator door opens. Check the manufacturer’s specs for exact clearance needs.
Q: Are 42-inch side-by-side refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many newer 42-inch models are very energy efficient. Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means they meet strict standards for energy use.
Q: How do I clean the stainless steel finish on my refrigerator?
A: You can use a soft cloth with mild soap and water. For fingerprints, a specialized stainless steel cleaner or a bit of glass cleaner on a cloth works well. Always wipe in the direction of the grain.
Q: What is the average capacity of a 42-inch side-by-side refrigerator?
A: The total capacity is usually between 25 and 30 cubic feet. This is a good amount of space for most families.
Q: Can I install a water filter in my side-by-side refrigerator?
A: Yes, most models with a water dispenser come with a built-in water filter or have a spot for one. You’ll need to replace the filter every 6 months or so for the best water taste.
Q: How noisy are these refrigerators typically?
A: Modern refrigerators are generally quieter than older models. Some are designed to be very quiet. Reading reviews can give you an idea of a specific model’s noise level.
Q: What happens if the ice maker stops working?
A: First, check if the ice maker is turned on and if the water line is connected and the valve is open. If it’s still not working, you might need to call a repair person.
Q: Are there different types of ice in the dispensers?
A: Yes, many dispensers offer cubed ice and crushed ice. Some advanced models might even offer nugget ice.
Q: How much does a 42-inch side-by-side refrigerator usually cost?
A: Prices can vary a lot depending on the brand, features, and finish. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more.
Q: What is the lifespan of a side-by-side refrigerator?
A: With proper maintenance, a side-by-side refrigerator can last for 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!