I had read many reviews, and had some concerns, but since I wanted a compact refrigerator of this size with no freezer, I decided to order one. I bought the 4.4 cu ft model in stainless steel finish, all refrigerator, no freezer, no defrost necessary.
The packaging and delivery were fine. Some reviews described flimsy packaging or damaged product at delivery or after opening the box. Mine was delivered with a sturdy outer packing carton of heavy corrugated cardboard, which was not damaged. We opened it at the top and discovered it had a layer of Styrofoam under the cover flap and all around the interior carton. We opened the outside carton down the side, so we did not have to lift the unit up out of the box, or tip it sideways to pull the refrigerator out. Inside we found a manufacturers carton. It lifts off, and the refrigerator is sitting on a small pallet of Styrofoam and cardboard. We lifted it off. We found no damage or dangling coils as was described by some reviews.
There was a tough plastic film over the stainless finish on the door. It was difficult to remove, but I suppose it served the purpose of protecting against scratches. The shelves were heavily taped, I suppose to keep them in place during shipment.
We moved it into place and let the unit stand empty for about two hours, as recommended in the booklet.
We found that there was only one leveling foot, and it looked as if the design intending only one, a situation that puzzled me. We moved it to its final position under the counter in the wet bar, and adjusted the leveling foot to its maximum position, but could not keep it from wobbling. We inserted a shim under one corner and it is now steady and firm.
After letting it rest and acclimate, we started it empty at the coldest setting, again as suggested in the instructions, and let it run for a couple hours. It seemed to be sufficiently cool. I then adjusted the coolness dial to a position in the middle and placed objects in it. A few hours later, the contents seemed appropriately cooled.
The dial to adjust the temperature is at the front of the unit, at the top. It is a flat found dial, with a slot in it. I could find no way to adjust the temperature except to use a coin or a small screwdriver turned sideways. It was not convenient, but I do not intend to adjust it often.
It is a quiet unit; it makes only a quiet hum when it runs, and I do not notice any particular sounds as it cycles on and off. I admit it is not where I am trying to sleep, but is not as loud as our central air conditioner or ceiling fan, as a comparison.
I like the design of can storage, where a can may be removed from any slot, to allow a variety of beverages each readily removable. The shelves adjust easily, and seem convenient for me. If one wants to store a gallon of milk, it has to be on a main shelf, and not in the door.
I like:
* size - it fits under the counter in the wet bar, and provides the maximum space possible;
* contains no freezer which wastes space and is not useful to me.
* does not have to be defrosted;
* was packaged well and arrived without damage
I would suggest the manufacturer improve:
* add another leveling foot or similar mechanism
* change the design of the temperature adjustment dial, since it is difficult to change.
I did not do any temperature measurements, so cannot comment on its actual temperature. The items in it are not critical for temperature to me.
In conclusion, I did not experience many of the problems of other reviewers, and I like the functions and size of this compact refrigerator. I would buy it again, and recommend it to others, especially if they want a unit without a freezer.
| Brand Name | Danby |
|---|---|
| Model Info | DAR044A5BSLDD-3 |
| Item Weight | 77.2 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 21.06 x 20.71 x 33.06 inches |
| Item model number | DAR044A5BSLDD-3 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Capacity | 4.4 Cubic Feet |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 268 Kilowatt Hours Per Year |
| Refrigerator Fresh Food Capacity | 4.4 Cubic Feet |
| Installation Type | Freestanding |
| Part Number | DAR044A5BSLDD-3 |
| Form Factor | Stand Alone |
| Special Features | Automatic Defrost, Compact |
| Color | Steel |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Crispers/Drawers | 1 |
| Defrost | Automatic |
| Door Hinges | Reversible |
| Door Material Type | Steel |
| Shelf Type | glass shelves |
| Shelves | 2 |
| Certification | energy star,energy star compliant |
| Material Type | Steel |
| Included Components | Owner's Manual, Mini Fridge |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Item Weight | 77.2 Pounds |
| Number Of Doors | 1 |
