A new refrigerator offers an instant upgrade to any kitchen and also ensures food items will stay fresh as long as possible. That said, not all new appliances are equal, and the wrong one can quickly prove to be a waste of time and money (not to mention result in a lot of spoiled food). It's therefore important to know what to look for in a new refrigerator, and not just when it comes to size. While the best new appliances tend to change every year, there are some brands with lasting reputations that are worth checking out. Read on to learn more about three of the best new refrigerators on the market today and what to look for.

Today's refrigerators can come with a range of tech features previously unheard of, and the GE Profile Series ENERGY STAR takes full advantage. Offering both the best in modern tech and functional value, this fridge also hails from a well-established brand that has been furnishing homes since the 1930s. The 2020 ENERGY STAR boasts convenient french doors and a lower pull-out freezer, LED lighting and a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish. More uniquely to the times, it also has an in-door keurig brewing system and smart-connectivity with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The standard 27.7 cubic ft model is currently listed at $3,059.99 with most retailers, but can be financed for $127.50 a month.

Those looking for a somewhat simpler model with great value would nevertheless do well to look at the 24.7 cubic ft Maytag French Door model. Maytag is one of the biggest names in refrigerators and has been for decades. This one comes with a convenient ice and water dispenser in one of the french doors, as well as a pull-out freezer below. LED lighting keeps selections bright and easy to find, while the stainless steel finish fits well with the decor of any kitchen. The Maytag is listed for $2,069.99, but it can be financed for $86.25 a month with most retailers. Lowe's is also currently offering the fridge for 10 percent off.

A pull-out drawer freezer is not for everyone though, and so a great option is the Whirlpool Side-by-Side 25.6 cubic feet model. Coming in a monochromatic stainless steel finish, this fridge is sleek and modern, while fitting in seamlessly with its surroundings. For convenience, it comes with an in-door ice and water dispenser and clean LED lighting. It also comes with door shelving that is deep enough to fit gallon-milk jugs and more. This fridge also clocks in at a great price -- $1,619.99 (or $67.50 a month in financing) -- for its brand, as Whirlpool is also one of the most well-established home appliance companies. This model is also currently on sale at Sears for $1,099.99.

Now, it's important to keep in mind that there is no "one size fits all" refrigerator, and the right fridge will depend on a wide range of factors. Space is usually the first consideration (and rightfully so), as are budget, brand reputation, decor themes and cooking / food storage needs. For many people, however, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences. That said, the three refrigerators listed here are a great place to start.