GE GFSF6KKY vs. Electrolux EI23BC36I: Comparing Two French Door, Bottom Freezer Refrigerators

By John E. Moore

Both the GE GFSF6KKY and the Electrolux EI23BC36I are refrigerators in the popular modern style with French doors and the freezer on the bottom. This arrangement makes it easy to see and grab the foods you use most without having to lean over. By comparing the two models, we can see a couple noticeable differences that may sway you toward one or the other.

The GE refrigerator has a great 25.9 cu. ft. capacity. We feel that the 8.17 cu. ft. freezer doesn’t detract too much space from the fridge, but you may feel differently when you open the French doors. The fridge compartment is quite wide, and the four slide-out glass shelves and six adjustable door bins give you some flexibility. This GE fridge has a width-long deli tray compartment at the bottom of the fridge, built to hold large trays or sheet cakes. Some people like this compartment, but others feel that it’s too limited in its usefulness and takes up precious space for taller food items.

The GE GFSF6KKY French Door Fridge

The Electrolux refrigerator is counter depth, meaning it has slightly less capacity (22.6 cu. ft.), but it also fits better in kitchens with limited space. The four glass shelves are adjustable, but they don’t slide out, which may make reaching foods in the back difficult. It also has just five adjustable door bins. While you’re losing a couple cubic feet of space, you still have enough flexibility to arrange the shelves to your preferences.

Another big difference between the two fridges is the external ice dispenser on the GE model. These ice dispensers have their proponents and detractors. Yes, it’s easier to fill up glasses with water or ice without having to open the door, which lets out cool air and makes the fridge work harder to bring the temperature back down. But if you have children around, then you know they like to play with it, which can get messy. And some people prefer a clean, blank exterior on their fridge. It’s simply a matter of preference. The Electrolux model has that smooth, unbroken exterior, but some consumers complained that the ice maker bucket occasionally overflows, which could be a design flaw.

The Electrolux EI23BC36I French Door Fridge

Surprisingly, the refrigerator with the smaller capacity costs more: $2,399. The larger GE fridge costs $1,776.72. Take into consideration, also, that the GE model has a year energy use of 552 kWh/yr. The Electrolux model is more energy efficient, operating at 467.2 kWh/yr, so you’ll save a bit on energy costs over the course of a year.

So is one fridge hands-down better than the other? The GE refrigerator wins when it comes to price and capacity. If you’re buying a fridge for a large family, you’ll love the extra spacious interior. However, the Electrolux is more energy efficient, and if you prefer a blank exterior, you’ll be happier with the Electrolux over the GE model.

John E. Moore has been reviewing kitchen goods and refrigerators for 8 years as the leader of cookswarehouse.com. Cooks Warehouse sells more than 400 kitchen items and accessories. John is also a self-described computer tech geek…. See more about John

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