The mini-fridge is the ultimate space-saving solution for those who live, work or play in tight spaces. It provides ample refrigeration space for those tasty snacks or drinks and is an excellent solution for increasing your home’s refrigeration capacity. After all, who doesn’t like having a little extra room in the fridge when planning a party or weekend feast? That is why a mini-fridge is such an excellent investment.
The most well-known type of mini-fridge is a one-door fridge with a standard configuration. It is like a miniature version of a standard home refrigerator with a freezer section, storage shelves, fresh food drawers, and door storage bins. In addition, a great mini-fridge will offer features like a reversible door and interior LED lights, glass shelves, 2-liter door bins, and adjustable legs.
In this article, we will discuss the best model from Galanz. This guide comprises a brief brand introduction and review of Galanz 3.5-Cu. Ft. mini-fridge and some FAQs to help you make a well-informed purchase. In addition, we will review the standard and retro variants of this fridge.
Review of the Galanz 3.5-Cu. Ft. Mini Fridges: Contemporary and Retro.
Galanz 3.5 cu ft Contemporary Compact Single-Door Refrigerator
Appearance
Galanz GL35BK 3.5-Cu. Ft. single-door refrigerator has a plain and sober look. The matt finish offset by the Galanz emblem at the top makes it a classy addition for contemporary setups. Its clean lines add aesthetic value to your kitchen, living room, garage, and RV. It provides a modern look to any area in which it is placed.
The compact-sized machine occupies minimal floor space and can also be placed under the counter. It is also a great machine for freestanding installation in the kitchen, bedroom, RV, and dorm.
Capacity
The unit’s total capacity is 3.5-Cu. Ft. with a 0.41-Cu. Ft. freezer compartment and 2.97-Cu. Ft. fridge compartment. Its capacity is best for small families, RVs, dorms, garages, patios, offices, and shops.
The freezer compartment is a lidded section with a box-like storage container. You can store a few boxed food items and some cheese or pop in a few soda cans for a quick chill.
The fridge section features a glass storage shelf that can be adjusted in three places. The fresh food drawer is a great feature for families as it provides ample storage space for veggies and fruits. Its top can also be used as a storage shelf. In addition, it has glass storage shelves that are easier to clean than wired shelves because they are spill-proof.
The door features a customized can storage shelf that you can use to store seven standard-sized soda cans. One storage bin in the door can be used to keep a 2-liter bottle. The other two storage bins in the door can be used for milk, juices, canned foods, ketchup, and sauces that don’t require much cooling.
Dimensions and Weight
It measures 19.13 x 21.10 x 32.80 inches and weighs 47.4 pounds. The dimensions are perfect for installing the unit in tight and compact places like a cozy dorm room, RV, apartment, or bedroom.
Construction
The unit is made from stainless steel, and on the inside, there are glass shelves and plastic door storage bins. The materials make the unit durable and reliable. For example, a mini-fridge lasts for 5-8 years with moderate use. Galanz’s machines are built to last if you take good care of them.
Temperature Range and Controls
The temperature controls are mechanical. The unit is controlled by a dial-type thermometer with a temperature setting of 1-7. Please note that 1 is the coldest setting on the controls.
The temperature range for the refrigerator section is 32F – 47F, and for the freezer, it is 27F – 37F. The temperature range is in line with FDA’s recommendations for storing fresh food items in your fridge. Please note that mini-fridges are not meant for raw meat storage or keeping frozen entrees for a long time and are best used for temporary storage only.
Energy Consumption
The mini-fridge consumes around an estimated 220 kWh of electricity, and its estimated yearly energy cost is $26.4. The usage and billing vary depending on use and the utility rates in your area.
The 3.5-Cu. Ft mini-fridge consumes less power than other units in this category. Therefore, it guarantees an economical running cost. It also has a volt rating of 120 volts.
Installation and Maintenance
This is a versatile model as you can install it under the counter or as a freestanding refrigerator. The installation process is simple. All you must do is let the fridge rest overnight after you have received it. This allows the coolant to settle down.
First, unpack the fridge, wipe it with a clean, soft cloth and plug it in. Next, adjust the thermometer to the coldest setting and let the machine run empty for 4-6 hours. Make sure you leave 2-3 inches of space on all sides for heat exchange.
It is a manually defrosting unit, and you will need to clean it regularly. Research suggests that it is best to defrost the unit after a month or whenever you notice a ½ inch ice layer in the freezer section. It keeps the unit running at optimum capacity and ensures the best performance.
Warranty and Certification
It is CSA and DOE certified and covered by a 1-year warranty.
Some Value-Added Features
- Interior Light: The LED light helps you locate your favorite items even when the lights are turned off.
- Leveling Front Legs: The adjustable front legs make installation easy. Simply adjust the legs, and the machine will be balanced.
- Reversible Door: A reversible door can be attached to the left/right side of the machine. It makes installation easy in cramped places.
Common Consumer Praises and Complaints
Buyers like the Galanz 3.5 cu. ft. retro mini refrigerator because of its user-friendly features. The positive points mention glass shelves, reversible doors, silent operation, and a recessed handle. In addition, it responds quickly to temperature changes.
The common complaints include less cooling in the door and the unit taking a lot of time to chill soda cans.
Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Internal Capacity | 2.97-Cu. Ft. |
| Freezer Capacity | 0.41-Cu. Ft. |
| Total Capacity | 3.5-Cu. Ft. |
| Dimensions | 19.13 x 21.10 x 32.80 inches |
| Weight | 47.4 lbs |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 220 kWh |
| Shelves | 2 |
| Baskets/Bins | 3 |
| Ice Maker | N/A |
| Defrost Type | Manual |
| Noise Level | N/A |
| Certifications | CSA and DOE certified |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Galanz 3.5 cu ft Compact Single-Door Refrigerator
Pros
- Sober and sleek look
- Can storage
- Silent machine
Cons
- Only stores 12 oz. cans
Additional Resources:
Galanz GLR35RDER 3.5-Cu. Ft. Retro Compact Refrigerator
Appearance
The retro-style mini-fridge is a great way to give your home, garage, office, RV, or dorm a classic vintage look. The flashy exterior with a chrome handle and chrome Galanz logo provides the unit with a complete retro look.
The unit is best for people who like to make a style statement without being overly bold. If you are into retro appliances, this fridge is a great option. It is available in black vinyl, hot rod red, and bebop blue.
Capacity
This 3.5 mini fridge has a capacity and shelf configuration that are identical to the one reviewed above. It has a total capacity of 3.5-Cu. Ft. with a 0.41-Cu. Ft. freezer and 2.97-Cu. Ft. fridge section. However, its door configuration is different from the contemporary variant.
The door features five glass bins. The bottom bin can store taller milk and juice bottles, while the top compartments can store soda cans horizontally. You can also keep jars and canned foods in the door storage sections.
It is great to have glass bins in the door as they are spill-proof and easy to clean. You can pull out the bins, clean them, and reinsert them.
Dimensions and Weight
The retro mini-fridge measures 19.17 x 23.31 x 35.16 inches and weighs 55.1 pounds. Please note that the retro variant is larger than the contemporary model.
Construction
The outside is made from stainless steel, and the inner shelves and door bins are glass. The overall feel and build are durable. However, the chrome handle is not considered good quality as some users mention handle discoloration.
Temperature Range and Controls
The Galanz mini fridge settings include a dial-styled temperature control, and the temperature settings range between 1-7, with 1 being the coldest. However, since the temperature controls are mechanical, you will need a standalone thermometer to check the operating temperature on the unit.
The temperature range for the fridge is 32F – 47F, and for the freezer section, it is 27F – 37F. The temperature settings on the machine are in line with FDA’s recommendations.
Energy Consumption
This machine’s estimated annual energy consumption is 220 kWh, which amounts to $26 of your yearly energy bill. The actual costs and energy consumption will depend on the usage and the average utility rates in your area.
Installation and Maintenance
The installation and maintenance needs of the fridge are the same compared to the model reviewed above. However, it is slightly bigger than the one mentioned above and may not be a good fit for under-the-counter installation. Still, it is an excellent unit for freestanding installation.
It is a manually defrosting unit and needs cleaning every 3-4 weeks.
Warranty and Certification
It is a UL-listed and Energy Star certified machine. In addition, Galanz provides a 1-year warranty on all its mini-fridges.
Some Value-Added Features
- Interior Light: The interior light makes it easy to store and access your favorite items.
- Leveling Front Legs: The adjustable front legs make it easy to balance the machine without much hassle, and they help in the installation process.
- Reversible Door: You can install the door on the left or right side of the machine, making it best for installation at tight spots.
- Glass Door Bins: Glassdoor bins are easy to clean and help keep the inside of the machine spotless.
Common Customer Praises and Complaints
Customers love the Galanz 3.5 cu. ft. retro mini refrigerator’s attractive look, easy setup, and low-cost operation and maintenance. It’s also available in three great colors, making it super easy to match to any décor. However, the one feature mentioned by many buyers is the glass bins. They praise this feature because glass bins are easy to clean.
The common complaints include shipping problems and door problems. Some customers also mention a flimsy door handle.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Internal Capacity | 2.97-Cu. Ft. |
| Freezer Capacity | .41-Cu. Ft. |
| Total Capacity | 3.5-Cu. Ft. |
| Dimensions | 23.31″ x 19.17″ x 35.16″ |
| Weight | 55.1 lbs. |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 220 kWh |
| Shelves | 2 |
| Baskets/Bins | 1 |
| Ice Maker | No |
| Defrost Type | Manual |
| Noise Level | 42 dBA |
| Certifications | ENERGY STAR-Certified |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- Energy efficient
- Elegant design
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Comes with crystal crisper
Cons
- Manual defrost
- No separate freezer chamber
- Door is not reversible
Galanz GLR35RDER 3.5-Cu. Ft. Retro Compact Refrigerator
Additional Resources
Final Word on the Galanz 3.5 cu. ft. Retro Mini Refrigerator
A mini-fridge is a great way to enhance the storage capacity in your kitchen. It is also perfect for people running on a tight budget and for use in RVs, garages, and dorm rooms. Galanz offers one of the best mini-fridges in the market. Use this review of the Galanz 3.5-Cu. Ft. mini-fridge to help you make a practical decision.
A Brief Introduction of the Galanz Brand
Galanz was founded in 1978 in Foshan, Guangdong, China. The brand started its operations with duck feathers for nearly 14 years and stepped into appliance manufacturing in 1992. The first appliance Galanz produced was a microwave oven. The microwave became an instant hit, and within six years, Galanz controlled a 40% share of the global microwave market.
At this time, the brand started expanding its product line and introduced refrigerators, freezers, ovens, toasters, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers. Its appliances are based on solid research, user-oriented features, and affordable prices.
Galanz Appliances
Although Galanz’s first refrigerator came out in 2007, it soon became a well-recognized entity in the world of refrigerators in the US and worldwide. Galanz’s name is synonymous with affordability, reliability, and durability.
Galanz has partnered with some of the big names in the US and has more than 1500 patents to its name. At present, Galanz has an excellent reputation in the US. It is not like other imported brands made with cheaper materials and alien features. Its machines are certified by all the relevant authorities, and it provides its customers with excellent customer service.
FAQs
Yes. Galanz mini-fridges offer the best value for money. These machines are affordably priced and have top-of-the-line features.
A mini-fridge lasts for 5-8 years on average. To extend the life of your mini-fridge, you will need to take care of the machine. First, you will need to install it as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Secondly, clean it whenever the ice becomes thicker than ½-inch as this ensures that the compressor and cooling components don’t have to work too hard to function optimally.
It may take up to 12-24 hours for a mini-fridge to get completely cold. Therefore, you must plug in the machine long before storing something. Then, adjust the temperature as per the ambient temperature and user manual and install a standalone thermometer to check the unit’s operating temperature.
A 3.5-Cu. Ft. mini-fridge is best for smaller families and can store food for a family of 2-3 people. It is big enough for dorms, offices, garages, and RVs.
No. Standard-sized freezers are more powerful and often have independent controls. As a result, they are best for long-term storage, whereas a mini-refrigerator’s freezer should only be used to store food items temporarily.
