COMPACT REFRIGERATOR

A compact refrigerator, often called a mini refrigerator, is basically a smaller version of a full size kitchen fridge but without the freezer portion. They are most often used in college dorms, small apartments, home theaters, wet bars and RVs for easy travelling. They can be built into existing cabinetry or be completely self contained (which is the better option for college dorms). Usually the compact fridge has no freeze portion attached, its strictly a cooling box and obviously has far less space than a regular 18-25 cubic foot fridge.

The compact refrigerator comes in the standard size of cube, mid-height and cabinet heights. They are primarily used to store beverages due to their small size, but in dorm situations they can hold everything from pop to pizza. Vegetables are optional.

The same rules apply when buying a compact fridge as when buying a full size fridge. Consider the available space, energy requirements and whether you need a built-in unit or free standing model. Most college dorms have rules about how much electricity you can draw from any one appliance, be sure to get those requirements from the housing office before going shopping. In pretty much all cases the small cube size option is acceptable regardless of your location, but double check just to be sure. I had a double size cube fridge, essentially the equivalent of two small cubes stacked on top of each other, and it worked well for holding pop and some snacks.

Be sure to clean the compact refrigerator on a regular schedule as the mold and mildew can cause health problems and make your stored foods smell horrible. Always clean appliances with food safe cleaning materials.

Most cube size compact models can be purchased for $80-$150 and there's usually a sale around the beginning of each school year. They make a great gift for a new college student.

For small apartments or large dorms then it would be better to step up to the next size and get one with a small freezer attached. These can be obtained for about $200-$300.

If your entire purpose is to store beverages, you can get a fridge specially designed to hold just that. For about $200 Haier makes a 125 can capacity beverage container and wine refrigerator. Glass front, stylish and perfect for pop/cola/beer storage.