The Frigidaire FRS3R5EMB side-by-side refrigerator is attractive and reasonably priced for a model in this configuration that includes through-the-door ice and water delivery. This model, however, lacks some of the extras that would make it stand out as a truly outstanding mid-sized side-by-side refrigerator.

The Frigidaire FRS3R5EMB is a solidly built unit with a smart-looking exterior and a quality feel throughout. It has 22.6 cubic feet of space in the fresh and frozen foods compartments combined, which makes it larger than many other medium-sized models. Still, the FRS3R5EMB is best for a small family, since its capacity isn't sufficient to handle the food storage needs of a larger family.

The FRS3R5EMB has 14.2 cubic feet of room in the fresh foods compartment and 8.4 cubic feet of space within the freezer. This unit is not especially energy efficient, using about 686kWh of electricity each year. Taking into account current energy prices, you can expect to pay around $62 a year to run this model.

The inside of the FRS3R5EMB is nicely illuminated. Temperature controls are on the top front of the main refrigerator compartment and are very easy to use.

On the door are four bins -- two gallon-size adjustable bins and two fixed bins -- that are sufficiently deep to accommodate two-liter bottles. There is also a clear dairy keeper.

Inside the main compartment of the FRS3R5EMB are three adjustable tempered glass shelves with a spill saver feature, plus a glass shelf atop the two clear crisper drawers. One crisper drawer has humidity control, while the other does not. This model also includes a clear deli/snack drawer. It would have been nice to see an egg caddy or a bottle rack in this unit, however.

Inside the freezer area of the FRS3R5EMB are four fixed door bins and three white wire shelves, plus a pullout basket to hold larger items. The through-the-door icemaker apparatus takes up a portion of the freezer space, which cuts down on the usable space within the compartment.

The through-the-door dispenser delivers chilled water and crushed and cubed ice through an integral dispenser. Unfortunately, the automatic icemaker is a bit noisy.

The FRS3R5EMB comes in silver mist, which is a silver color like stainless steel, but does not require the same sort of maintenance as a stainless model. It is also available in stainless steel, for an additional fee. This model has black handles.

The Frigidaire FRS3R5EMB refrigerator is an attractive, solidly built refrigerator that has a few convenience features but lacks the little extras that would make it stand out as an exceptional fridge and an exceptional value.


Pros: Through-the-door filtered water and ice, quality feel, attractive
Cons: Lacks some extra features, not energy efficient

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor