Frigidaire GRSS2652AF Side by Side Refrigerator Review Energy Star Stainless Steel Excellence

Description

Favorable Attributes of the Frigidaire GRSS2652AF Refrigerator

I have to admit, the Frigidaire GRSS2652AF 36″ Gallery Series Freestanding Side by Side Refrigerator impressed me with several standout features. The 25.6 cubic feet capacity is generous, making it easy to store a week’s worth of groceries without constantly rearranging shelves. The 3 tempered glass shelves provide sturdy support and the ability to customize the layout, which I found incredibly handy when accommodating large platters or tall bottles.

The Smudge-Proof® stainless steel finish is a lifesaver in my busy household, especially with kids around who seem to have a knack for leaving fingerprints everywhere. It keeps the exterior looking sleek and clean without the constant need for wiping down. Another feature I appreciated is the EvenTemp™ cooling system; it maintains a consistent temperature throughout the fridge, so I never worry about certain sections getting too warm or freezing. This has helped keep my produce fresher longer, thanks in part to the CrispSeal® Plus Crispers that effectively control moisture and prevent wilting.

• Spacious 25.6 cu. ft. capacity fits large families or meal preppers.
• Smudge-Proof® stainless steel resists fingerprints and looks modern.
• Adjustable tempered glass shelves allow flexible storage.
• Efficient EvenTemp™ system keeps temperature steady.
• Innovative CrispSeal® Plus Crispers extend produce freshness.

Shortcomings That Caught My Attention

Even though this refrigerator has many positive aspects, I noticed a few downsides worth mentioning. The external ice and water dispenser, while convenient, tends to be a little noisy during operation, which might annoy light sleepers. Also, the freezer capacity of 9 cubic feet felt somewhat limited compared to the overall size of the unit. It required more frequent organization to prevent items from getting buried or lost in the back.

I would have liked the LED lighting inside the freezer compartment to be a bit brighter. This would make it easier to find smaller frozen items without having to rummage around. Another minor gripe is the lack of counter-depth design, meaning this fridge protrudes from the counter line, which could be a tight fit in smaller kitchens or modern setups aiming for a flush finish.

• The ice and water dispenser can be noisy.
• 9 cu. ft. freezer space may feel cramped for heavy freezer users.
• Freezer LED lighting could be brighter for better visibility.
• Not counter-depth, so it sticks out in some kitchen layouts.

Good Aspects in Design and Usability

From a design perspective, this model strikes a nice balance between style and functionality. The side-by-side door configuration means I don’t have to swing wide doors into a small kitchen space, which is a blessing in my tight galley kitchen. The gallon door storage is deep enough to hold large containers, and it’s easy to access frequently used items without opening the entire fridge.

The PureAir Ultra® II air filter impressed me by reducing unwanted odors notably better than the baking soda trick many people rely on. This means I can store strong-smelling foods without affecting the entire fridge. The PurePour™ water filter also ensures the water tastes fresh and safe, cutting down on plastic bottle use, which my eco-conscious spouse appreciated.

Drawbacks in Performance and Features

Performance-wise, the refrigerator does a solid job but not without hiccups. The annual energy consumption at 647 kWh per year is decent, but not the most efficient I’ve seen in this category. For environmentally conscious buyers, this could be a consideration. The automatic defrost system works well, but I noticed occasional condensation near the door seals, which could be due to the design of the door gaskets.

Also, the control panel is somewhat basic and lacks smart features or app connectivity found in some competing models. If you’re after a fridge with Wi-Fi enabled controls or remote temperature monitoring, this one might feel a bit outdated.

• Energy consumption is moderate, not top-tier efficient.
• Some condensation near door seals after heavy use.
• Lacks smart features found in newer high-end refrigerators.

Product Competitors and How This Model Stacks Up

Comparing this side-by-side refrigerator to some popular competitors like the LG LSXS26366S or Samsung RS27T5200SR, the Frigidaire holds its own but with some trade-offs. The LG model often wins praise for its ultra-quiet operation and slightly larger freezer space, while Samsung impresses with smart technology and a sleek counter-depth design.

The Frigidaire excels with its CrispSeal® Plus Crispers and Smudge-Proof® stainless steel finish, which are features not always found in rival models at the same price point. However, it falls short in the freezer capacity and lacks the advanced connectivity options that Samsung offers. For those prioritizing fresh produce storage and a clean exterior, this fridge is a solid choice; for tech enthusiasts or those needing more freezer space, competitors might edge ahead.

Value for Money and Price Performance

Considering the features and size, this refrigerator represents a fair balance between cost and functionality. It does not command the premium price of ultra-luxury models but offers many conveniences such as adjustable shelving, efficient air filtering, and fingerprint-resistant surfaces. This makes it a practical investment for families needing a reliable, spacious fridge without breaking the bank.

I noticed that some higher-priced alternatives include more bells and whistles, but the core features here cover everyday needs. For people who want a durable, easy-to-clean, and spacious appliance with a solid warranty and energy star certification, this model provides good bang for the buck.

Positive Features Loved by My Family

One of the best things about this refrigerator is how my kids took to using it without any confusion—the external ice and water dispenser was a big hit during hot days. They also appreciate the bright LED lighting inside, which makes grabbing snacks quick and easy. The sturdy glass shelves hold up well even when packed with heavy containers or large leftovers from our weekend gatherings.

• Kid-friendly ease of use with accessible water and ice dispenser.
• Bright interior LED lighting for clear visibility.
• Durable tempered glass shelves support heavy items without issue.

Areas for Improvement from Real-Life Use

A few practical aspects could be improved based on daily use. The door handles feel a bit plasticky compared to the stainless steel body, which slightly diminishes the overall premium feel. I also found that rearranging the shelves can be tricky at first because the clips require a bit of force to snap in place securely.

Additionally, the freezer layout would benefit from a pull-out drawer instead of just fixed shelves for easier organization. This would reduce the need to dig around when searching for frozen foods, especially for families like mine who stock up on bulk purchases.

• Door handles feel less premium than rest of the fridge.
• Shelf adjustments require some effort to secure properly.
• Freezer would be more user-friendly with pull-out drawers.

Using this refrigerator in a busy household has shown me both its strengths and its quirks, making it a solid but not flawless kitchen companion.

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