Should You Buy the West Bend Mini Fridge? A Detailed Review Awaits!

Description

Features

The compact refrigerator from West Bend, specifically the “WB0170ARTB” model, has been a delightful addition to my workspace. Its 1.7-cubic-foot capacity makes it a perfect fit for limited spaces like dorm rooms, offices, or even a cozy corner in the bedroom. I particularly appreciated the built-in door shelves, which include a 2-liter storage compartment—ideal for soda bottles or condiments. The removable and adjustable shelving is a game-changer; I was able to organize my snacks and fruits conveniently. The fridge’s automatic defrost feature is another standout—no manual scraping or fussing, which is a huge relief for someone like me who tends to forget about regular maintenance.

Energy Efficiency

This compact fridge proudly wears its Energy Star certification, and it lives up to that promise. Even after keeping it plugged in for weeks, I noticed no significant impact on my electricity bill. With an annual energy consumption of approximately 233 kilowatt-hours, it’s both eco-friendly and wallet-friendly. I’ve owned other mini fridges before, and they often felt like energy vampires, but this one strikes a fine balance between power usage and performance.

Cooling Performance

The cooling performance is impressive for its size. It keeps drinks icy cold, and fresh veggies crisp, as long as they aren’t pressed directly against the back wall. I made the mistake of placing a glass bowl of fruits in contact with the rear cooling panel, and it partially froze—lesson learned! The compressor cooling system does its job efficiently, and the full-range temperature control means I can tweak the settings depending on what I’m storing.

Storage Capacity

At first glance, a 1.7-cubic-foot fridge might seem small, but it surprises you with how much it can hold. The two adjustable shelves and door storage provide a lot of flexibility. I managed to fit a week’s worth of snacks, a few beverages, and even a small salad container without cramming everything in. It’s perfect for someone who needs a little extra refrigerator space without going overboard.

Noise Levels

One of my favorite aspects of this fridge is how quiet it is. I’ve placed it in my office, and even during Zoom meetings, I can barely hear it humming in the background. At night, it’s equally silent, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms or dorm rooms. I value my sleep, and a noisy appliance would have been a dealbreaker for me.

Defrosting & Maintenance

The automatic defrost system is a blessing. I’ve had mini fridges in the past where frost buildup became a chore, but this compact refrigerator takes that hassle away entirely. Maintenance has been a breeze; a quick wipe-down every now and then keeps it looking and smelling fresh. The included care manual was straightforward and helpful for setting everything up.

Ease of Use

Setting up and using this fridge was as easy as plugging it in and adjusting the temperature dial. The reversible door hinge is a thoughtful addition, allowing me to place it in tighter spaces without worrying about door clearance. The lightweight design (at just 31 pounds) also made moving it from one room to another surprisingly simple. My teenage cousin even carried it upstairs to her dorm without breaking a sweat.

Durability

The build quality of this fridge feels sturdy, though the door material is plastic, which might not sit well with everyone. That said, it’s held up well against everyday use, and the shelves feel secure even when loaded up. I’ve moved this fridge around a couple of times already, and there’s no sign of wear or tear. It seems like a product that’s built to last, at least for a few years.

Warranty

Knowing that this product comes with a standard warranty adds peace of mind. Although I haven’t had to use it yet, it’s always reassuring to know that the manufacturer stands behind their product. I keep the care manual and receipt handy just in case, but so far, everything’s been smooth sailing.

Positives

Winning Points

• Compact size fits perfectly in tight spaces.
• Energy Star certification ensures efficient energy use.
• Automatic defrost feature simplifies maintenance.
• Extremely quiet operation, ideal for bedrooms or shared spaces.
• Adjustable, removable shelving adds organizational flexibility.

Negatives

Flaws

• Items placed directly against the cooling panel can freeze.
• Plastic door material feels a little less premium.
• Lack of a freezer compartment may disappoint some users.

Product Comparisons

Among its “Competing Brands,” the West Bend Mini Fridge excels in energy efficiency and noise levels compared to similar compact refrigerators like the Danby Designer Mini Fridge and the Midea WHS-65LSS1. While this fridge lacks a freezer compartment, it makes up for it with its automatic defrost system and better energy efficiency. The Danby unit, for instance, includes a freezer but sacrifices some storage room and consumes more energy. Meanwhile, the Midea fridge, though equally compact, tends to be noisier based on user reviews.

If you’re after a fridge that prioritizes energy savings and quiet operation, this one wins. However, if you need a freezer for ice or frozen snacks, you might need to explore alternatives.

Price to Quality Ratio

The “Price to Quality Ratio” for this mini fridge feels just right. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but considering its automatic defrost feature, low noise levels, and energy efficiency, it punches above its weight. I’d call it a smart purchase for anyone who values convenience and performance in a compact package. If you’re someone like me, who needs a reliable mini fridge for snacks and beverages, it’s worth every penny.

Additional information