bit-tech Shopping: GE FCM5DRWH White Freezer

Rating: 10

Time with product: 2 Weeks

Strengths: Price & quality equals a great value.

Weaknesses: Nothing so far.

Summary: My wife and I had never considered the benefit of having extra freezer space, but after too many years of wrestling with automatic ice makers (taking up at least one third of the freezer space) and never having the room to benefit from the food savings of frozen bulk items, we elected to do an investigation.After thoroughly reviewing the various manufacturers, models and sizes, we found ourselves drawn to the 5 cu ft GE Chest Freezer. The reviews were overwhelmingly positive, and happily we are now in the position to add our feedback.First, the price - a hands-down better value than anything else on the market. We were able to find one at our nearest Sam's Club and, because this model is relatively light (weighs about 100 lbs), it was very easy to pick up and install by ourselves.The GE freezer also happens to be very sleek looking and now sits in our laundry room next to the washer and dryer. They make a very attractive trio. The size is also worthy of note - although it easily stores enough food for a small family, it may also benefit apartment dwellers (i.e. it would probably fit in a large closet).The interior design is ideal, with a removable separation of space (great for organizing small vs larger or odd-shaped items) and a removable basket. This smart allocation of space means that food items are less likely to disappear under a mass of frozen layers. It makes food selection quick and easy. In addition, the defrost process is very user friendly. A small drain at the base makes the collection of any residual water a breeze - and the smooth interior surface is very easy to wipe down.Although this freezer has many merits, perhaps one of the most important issues for us is noise - and again, the GE delivers. We were amazed at just how quiet it is - so much so, initially we had to check to see if it was functioning properly. When the motor does run, it purrs like a kitten. In fact, even our very skittish cats took to it immediately.Overall - extremely happy with this addition to the family. And we realized the food cost-savings almost immediately. Prudent purchase in tough economic times. Only downside - we should have made this purchase years ago.