In the world of built-in and cabinet-depth refrigerators, prices sometime seem to skyrocket on some of the more upscale models. However, Frigidaire has included many upscale bells and whistles and many convenience and performance features in its Gallery PHSC39EJS -- proof that a solid and quality-built stainless steel cabinet-depth fridge doesn't have to set you back thousands and thousands of dollars. In fact, this snazzy fridge has a sub-$2400 price, and you can likely find it on sale for less. As stainless steel appliances go, the PHSC39EJS offers an outstanding value, so we are awarding this model a Consumer Guide Best Buy designation.

Energy usage has become a big concern with homeowners. We like the fact that this medium-size 22.6-cubic-foot side-by-side refrigerator is very energy efficient. It uses just 550 kWh each year, so it will cost you about $61 to operate it annually. For a fully featured and upscale cabinet-depth model, this model is an excellent choice.

Frigidaire's Gallery PHSC39EJS cabinet-depth refrigerator offers 22.6 cubic feet of interior space. About 14.1 cubic feet of space is in the fresh foods compartment and 8.5 cubic feet of space is in the freezer. This fridge is best suited for a small family.

We like how well the interior of this unit is featured -- and lit. For instance, even the crisper drawers are lit from behind so you will be able to easily see all items inside. The PHSC39EJS has "transitional" lighting, so the fridge lights come on gradually instead of pop on automatically when you open the door. This can take a little getting used to. What won't take getting used to is the fan-driven interior air filter that all but eliminates fridge odors.

The door of this Frigidaire Gallery cabinet-depth model has a clean and organized layout with two fixed shelves, two clear removable gallon-size bins with a bottom mat to prevent items from sliding around, a can rack and a clear dairy keeper. There are two humidity-controlled crisper drawers, a sealed meat locker and three glass shelves with a spillsaver rim, including one fixed shelf, one slide-out shelf and one "SmartFit" shelf that moves vertically with a lever, so you can move it up and down even when it's loaded with fresh foods.

The freezer is also aesthetically pleasing, although the through-the-door ice maker and water delivery system takes up a lot of space. The two interior shelves are glass, and there are two pullout baskets. The door has two clear bins and two tilt-out shelves. The through-the-door ice and water delivery system runs through an integral filter. The two-paddle dispenser itself displays seven buttons that give extra functionality and dispense extra ice, cubed ice, water and more. There's a lockout and night light as well. Frigidaire's PHSC39EJS also has a door ajar alarm that sounds if the doors have been left open.

Available in only stainless steel, the Frigidaire Gallery PHSC39EJS cabinet-depth refrigerator has a solid feel and a great look, and provides an excellent value for the money.


Pros: Energy efficient, lots of performance and convenience features, relatively low price for a stainless steel refrigerator in this category
Cons: Transition lighting may take some getting used to at first

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor