Kenmore 51026 26.5 Cu. Ft. Side By Side Metallic Review

Conclusion

Energy Efficiency

Even for fridges this size and style, the Kenmore 51026 costs more than average to run and isn't the most efficient as far as the ratio of power use to usable space. It is Energy Star compliant, but even so, if energy consumption is a major concern for you, be sure to comparison shop before settling for this model.

Performance

Temperatures remained very consistent over time, which means a greater longevity for food in the fridge and less change of freezer burn in frozen goods. However, lower shelves on both sides are warmer than the those on the top. This means you'll need to remain conscious about what you're putting where, and keeping easily perishable items near the top.

Storage Space

The Kenmore 51026 isn't cavernous, but it's pretty darn close. Ample space in the fridge and freezer offer storage options for any type of consumer. Whether you prefer to buy food wholesale and freeze it for long-term consumption, or if you shop often for fresh produce and dairy, you'll have enough space to keep it all in this fridge.

Usability

The fridge is very easy to handle. Shelves slide in and out with ease, and the door shelves are simple to rearrange. The crisper drawers, though, as well as all the moving shelves in the freezer, aren't quite as slick, sticking a bit due to the plastic-on-plastic build. The exterior control panel, as well the dual water and ice dispenser, work very well, but the interior components of the ice maker can be somewhat unwieldy.