If you're on a budget but have your heart set on a side-by-side refrigerator, the Galaxy 55122 is an excellent option.

The 55122 has several welcome convenience features that are typically found in higher-priced models, but overall, it's a fairly basic model. It includes glass interior shelving and sturdy gallon-size door bins, plus a through-the-door ice and water dispenser. Interior appointments are a bit flimsy, although for its low price, most will find the 55122 a great value.

The 55122 is a medium-size unit that has 14.4 cubic feet of space in the fresh foods compartment and 7.3 cubic feet of space in the freezer. It is not, however, an energy-efficient refrigerator by any means. It uses about 670kWh of energy each year, so with current energy prices, you'll wind up paying about $70 a year to run this model.

The fresh foods compartment of the 55122 is nicely illuminated and bright. On the door are three adjustable gallon door bins and one stationary shelf, as well as a clear dairy keeper. Within the main compartment are three adjustable glass shelves with a spillsaver feature, plus a glass shelf above the crispers. The two crisper drawers are opaque; this is a drawback, as drawers on more upscale models generally have humidity control and will likely be clear in order to allow a good view of the items inside.

The through-the-door ice and water delivery takes up quite a bit of space inside the freezer compartment and the door. The machinery is located at eye level, so you will likely have to stoop or bend down to store and access items. The main compartment has three white wire shelves and a pullout opaque bin. On the door are five small fixed shelves.

The through-the-door ice and water dispenser on the 55122 has a two-paddle design. The dispenser itself is deep enough for a tall glass, although you'll have to angle a deep pitcher into the dispenser in order to fill it. The dispenser's controls are easy to use and offer a choice of cubed or crushed ice, as well as water and a light. This model does not deliver water and ice through a filter, as more upscale models tend to.

Temperature controls for the Galaxy 55122 are on the top center of the main compartment and are very easy to use.

The 55122 is only available in white.

For a medium-size side-by-side refrigerator with a few upscale features, the Galaxy 55122 has a relatively low purchase price and delivers quite a bit of fridge for your dollar.


Pros: Some upscale features like glass shelves and through-the-door ice and water, inexpensive
Cons: Through-the-door ice and water apparatus takes up much freezer space, not energy efficient

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor