When it comes to shopping for a refrigerator, there are a lot of dynamics to consider. Clearly size and price are the first to consider, and then comes a very important one - the refrigerator’s configuration. That’s right, we’re talking about freezer placement. It may not the most exciting facet to decide on quite like the type of gorgeous finish you will select but it is an important one that will affect your daily use. Below we’ll compare the differences between top-mount freezer and bottom freezers to help you better decide on the best refrigerator for your home. Refrigerator Position Winner: Bottom FreezerSince refrigerators are categorized by the location of the freezer, it may seem obvious that a top-mount freezer is most beneficial since your frozen foods will be conveniently at eye-level. However, more than likely you aren’t using your freezer as often as you are your refrigerator. Your refrigerator holds the foods you use on a regular basis from your favorite breakfast foods to your afternoon (or late-night) snacks. Unless you are really working to tone your quadriceps any chance you can get (in which case, go you!), squatting each time you need to peer into your fridge may not be the most convenient. And let’s be honest, if you’re anything like us you’re probably bending your back more than you are working those glutes. Therefore, bottom freezers win this category since it’s most convenient to have your regular foods at eye-level.Least Straining Winner: Top FreezerWhile it may some completely contradictory to say top freezers are least straining right after suggesting bottom freezers are easier on your back, keep in mind the configuration of your refrigerator should be based on your daily lifestyle. Consider the type of foods you may keep in your freezer. It’s unlikely you’re storing a 30 lb. turkey in your fridge right now but definitely likely to have one in your freezer. With a bottom freezer, it is more straining to reach down to the bottom and lift a frozen a monster-of-a-bird up compared to a top freezer which stores it at arm level. If you’re likely to store heavy items in your freezer, a top mount freezer is likely more convenient. Best Freezer Storage Winner: Bottom FreezerThere are lots of ways frozen foods can help with meal-planning and staying healthy so it’s great to keep a lot of them on hand. If you do use your freezer often, a bottom freezer might be your best choice as it utilizes lift-out baskets or pull-out shelves for the best storage options and easy accessibility. Bottom freezers are generally more roomier than top freezers and can adapt better to larger frozen items, such as that massive bird we mentioned earlier. Energy EfficiencyWinner: Top FreezerIn general, top freezers are more energy efficient than bottom freezers. The reason goes back to the original freezer design which featured a top-mounted compressor. This compressor which generates heat while working hard to cool the fridge and freezer compartments is tucked away underneath the unit in modern refrigerators. Therefore, a bottom freezer is closer to the compressor and forces it to work harder to keep cool whereas a top freezer is further away making it easier to keep heat out with less effort. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, top freezers use about 10-25% less energy than bottom freezers which equals you saving money and reduces your carbon footprint. After considering your own lifestyle and the advantages of each refrigerator, which freezer configuration will you choose?