There’s one thing cramped apartments, garages, RVs, home bars, and offices have in common, they all lack space. This requires you to be super organized to get everything to fit. Things get even trickier when you need to fit a fridge into these small spaces. That’s when a mini-fridge is the best option! Small spaces aside, a mini-fridge is also an excellent investment for homes that require additional food storage space but don’t have the budget or room for a full-sized refrigerator.
As the decision-maker, it is up to you to decide which refrigerator is best according to your circumstances and living style. For example, if you are a free soul that frequently moves between residences, a full-sized built-in refrigerator would not be the best option for you.
There are many types of refrigerators on the market. Some examples are the French-door refrigerator, side-by-side refrigerator, top-freezer refrigerator, and bottom-freezer refrigerator. However, the options don’t stop there; consumers also have the choice of under-counter refrigerators, standalone refrigerators, and of course, mini-refrigerators. All these refrigerators come in various shapes and sizes, which is excellent news for those of us with smaller homes!
When delving through the many refrigerator options on the market, it’s the mini-fridge that provides the most convenience! It comes with a freezer, side racks, crisper drawers, and much more. Don’t be put off by its size; this small fridge packs a mighty punch! It is compact, lightweight, economical, and easy to maintain. What more could you ask for in a refrigerator?
A mini-fridge is also a great choice for singles or small families. It’s perfect for the garage, bedroom, student dorm, and office. Don’t forget it’s also an excellent addition to a home bar or man cave!
However, buying a mini-fridge can become an uphill task because of the countless options available on the market. In addition, homeowners are not aware of the technical aspects they should look for in a mini-fridge. As refrigerator experts, we have shortlisted the best mini refrigerators available, analyzed every machine’s features, checked the user reviews, price, and capacity, and then settled on Galanz 1.7- cu. ft. mini-fridge.
This article will introduce readers to the Galanz brand and review the Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. mini-fridge. We will evaluate its features and provide you with the inside scoop on user reviews. We will also answer the FAQs related to the fridge, thus helping you select the best brand money can buy.
Galanz GL17BK 1.7-Cu. Ft. Mini Refrigerator
Let’s check out the significant features of the Galanz 1.7- cu. ft. mini-fridge and how they are helpful to users.
Appearance
The Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. mini-fridge fits neatly into the corner of any room. It won’t occupy much space as it is a compact model. Cube-shaped and black in color, the Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. mini-fridge lends a certain sophistication to the room, easily matching in with the décor of most homes. Moreover, the small size makes the machine perfect for placing under counters, bar tables, and kitchen counters.
Capacity
This compact fridge is ideal for 1-2 people. It is not meant to be used as a primary fridge; however, while it may appear small, it can hold a fair number of items.
The door features two compartments. One is for bottles, jars, and soda cans. The other one is for keeping smaller items such as chocolates or cheese. The single door design has one removable rack in the center and a small freezer compartment to store small items or perhaps a whole chicken. It also comes with a lid to prevent the cool air from escaping when you open the fridge.
The fridge storage space is sufficient for jars, bottles, soda cans, leftovers, fresh foods, and much more. Please note that the rack can be removed but cannot be adjusted to any other position. The removable rack makes it easy to clean the machine and comes in handy when storing tall items in the fridge.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. mini-fridge measures 20.98 x 19.29 x 22.05 inches and weighs 32.4 pounds. The dimensions and weight make this machine ideal for tight spaces. You can even keep the machine under a 24-inch-tall table as its height is only 19.5 inches. Moreover, it is not very wide or deep. Therefore, you can position it easily on a countertop, beside your bed, or in the garage.
Construction
The refrigerator is made from metal and plastic. The outer side is metal while the racks and door wires are made from plastic.
Overall, the fridge has a solid feel and a robust design. No user has ever reported color coming off or corrosion in the machine, provided you keep your machine neat and clean.
The bottom side of the fridge comes with a steel base to keep it stable. The front side has two leveling legs that help you align the refrigerator when installing it.
Moreover, the door design is reversible, making it easy to install the machine in cramped places.
Temperature Range and Settings
When designing the temperature range, Galanz has kept in mind the temperature variations across the country. The refrigerator compartment has a temperature range of 32°F – 47°F. The chiller compartment has a temperature range of 27°F to 37°F. The temperature control knob is mechanical with a dial style control.
Please note that you will need an additional thermometer to ensure that the machine is operating at the pre-set temperature because the Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. mini refrigerator doesn’t come with a digital temperature display. A standalone thermometer will keep you aware of the machine’s internal temperature and prevent your food from going bad.
Energy Consumption
It is an Energy Star-certified machine that has a very low operational cost. In fact, its annual running cost is cheaper than buying 2 crates of beer! The 1.7 cubic foot Galanz mini-refrigerator uses 208 kWh per year, and its operational cost is around $25.
Galanz’s energy consumption and operational costs are way less than other models in the same category because the manufacturer uses energy-efficient parts.
Installation and Maintenance
The Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. mini-fridge is easy to install, use and maintain. You don’t need any professional help or plumbing connections as it is a freestanding unit. All you need is a 120 volts outlet, and you are good to go.
Once you receive the machine, unpack it and wipe off any dust from the outer and inner sides. Let it sit for 6 hours so that the cooling gas in the compressor settles down. After 6 hours, inspect the wire for any damage and plug in the machine if everything is intact. It is best to read the user manual during the time you let your machine rest. Additionally, ensure that you leave the manufacturer-recommended space on all sides. After turning on the machine, let it run empty for one night for effective and load-free cooling.
Please ensure that you don’t install your machine where it can get wet. Another thing to note is that it is a manual defrosting unit that may require a little effort when cleaning and defrosting.
Please ensure that you don’t install your machine where it can get wet. Another thing to note is that it is a manual defrosting unit that may require a little effort when cleaning and defrosting.
Warranty and Certification
A 1-year warranty protects the Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. machine for mechanical, electric parts, and workmanship defects. Please note that installing non-Galanz parts and using your machine in any way not specified in the warranty/user manual will void the warranty. The warranty agreement doesn’t include any damages caused by acts of God.
This machine is CSA and Estar certified and has California Prop 65 claim.
Some Other Notable Features
- Reversible Door: Reversible doors make it easy to install fridges in a compact place. Since a reversible door can swing both ways, you don’t need to worry when installing a refrigerator if there is a wall on the left or right side of the machine.
- Leveling Legs: Leveling legs allow users to balance the machine without any hassle. All you must do is rotate and adjust the legs until the machine becomes stable.
- Half-width Door Handle: A recessed half-width door handle makes it super easy and safe to open the door. Moreover, the handle is located at the top of the door, allowing users to open it without bending if the machine is placed on the floor.
Common Customer Praises and Complaints
All the positive reviews mention superb cooling skills. The refrigerator cools quickly and keeps the contents fresh for a long time. It even works when the external temperature goes above 82.
Many users praise this machine for being silent and only producing a slight hum when running at full pace. In addition, customers like its sturdiness and durability. They mention that this machine will not let you down for at least 3-4 years.
Some users mention that the door rack doesn’t have enough space to hold large cans, but these can be stored in the main compartment.
One buyer who placed the machine in the office mentioned that it produces some heat, but if you leave ample space on all sides, the heat will dissipate and not create any issues.
Most people who bought this machine use it for offices and garages and love how it quickly cools their beverages.
Overall, it is an excellent buy and superb value for your money.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Internal Capacity | 1.7-Cu. Ft. |
| Freezer Capacity | N/A |
| Total Capacity | 1.7-Cu. Ft. |
| Dimensions | 19.09″ x 17.48″ x 19.49″ |
| Weight | 29.9 lbs. |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 208 kWh |
| Shelves | 1 |
| Baskets/Bins | 0 |
| Ice Maker | No |
| Defrost Type | Manual |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Certifications | N/A |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- Can fit almost anywhere
- Very fast cooling
- Clean and modern style
Cons
- Annual cost is roughly the same as larger units
- Not very spacious
- Wired balconies
Additional Resources
A Brief Introduction of the Galanz Brand
Galanz was founded in 1987 in Foshan, Guangdong, China. Galanz initially dealt in duck feathers, but in 1992, it started manufacturing home appliances. The first appliance Galanz manufactured was a microwave oven.
Its microwave oven was an instant hit, not only in China but worldwide as well. Within six years, Galanz captured a 40% share of the global microwave oven market. Over time, Galanz expanded its manufacturing base and started manufacturing refrigerators, freezers, ovens, toasters, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers.
Galanz Appliances
It was in 2007 that Galanz made its first refrigerator. Its refrigerators were built around innovation, research, and sound technical knowledge. At present, Galanz has more than 1500 patents to its name across the US and is partnered with major brands in the northern hemisphere.
Galanz’s reputation in the US market is outstanding. Its appliances are deemed reliable, durable, and above all, affordable. Galanz also offers one of the largest retro-styled appliance collections.
FAQs
Yes. It is very quiet. You can place one in your bedroom, office, study, dorm, or anywhere else you like. You won’t even hear it running.
A mini-fridge must not be installed anywhere where it can get wet. If the machine is indoor rated, you must avoid installing it near a sink, washroom, and outdoors. You must also keep it away from a direct heat source such as a stove or oven and never expose your machine to direct sunlight.
Most of the mini-fridges have a mechanical thermostat. For example, Galanz 1.7-cu. ft. mini-fridge has temperature settings from 1-7. The coolest setting is 7 and is best when you want the machine to chill quickly.
A 1.7 cubic foot fridge can store up to 22 beer cans, food leftovers, lots of 2-liter bottles, and fresh foods.