Who Makes Summit Brand Refrigerators? The Ultimate Guide

If you‘re in the market for a new refrigerator, you may be wondering: who makes Summit brand refrigerators and are they any good? As your home improvement guide, I‘ve done extensive research on Summit refrigerators and other major brands to provide you with this definitive guide. Read on to learn all about Summit‘s origins, manufacturing process, product quality, and how they stack up against competitors.

All About Summit Appliance Company

Founded in 1969 in Princeton, New Jersey, Summit Appliance is a leading manufacturer of compact, apartment-sized kitchen appliances designed with efficiency and reliability in mind.

For over 50 years, Summit has specialized in:

• Refrigerators
• Ranges
• Cooktops
• Microwaves
• Wine cellars
• Undercounter ice makers

Summit emphasizes quality craftsmanship and materials to produce long-lasting appliances with minimal environmental impact. As an American company, Summit takes pride in domestic manufacturing and rigorous quality control.

Let‘s take a deeper look at where Summit refrigerators are produced.

Where Summit Refrigerators Are Manufactured

All Summit brand refrigerators are proudly manufactured at the company‘s state-of-the-art factory located in Laddy, Mississippi.

Summit has been making refrigerators at this facility since 1977. The Laddy factory spans over 250,000 square feet and employs the latest manufacturing technologies, including:

• Automated conveyor systems for streamlined production

• Laser cutting machines for precision component fabrication

• Robotic welders to expertly join refrigerator parts

• Powder coating for durable, scratch-resistant finishes

Summit‘s refrigerators are assembled by trained technicians who perform extensive quality assurance checks during the production process. Each completed refrigerator must pass final multi-point inspections before packaging to ensure optimal performance.

Summit‘s Laddy factory is also environmentally responsible – it has earned Energy Star certification for its use of green production methods. For example:

• Recycling programs reduce landfill waste by over 60%

• Energy-efficient lighting and machinery reduce electricity consumption

• Water recycling systems conserve over 40,000 gallons per day

So when you choose a Summit refrigerator, you can feel good knowing it was built with care for the environment.

Why Summit Refrigerators Are Built To Last

With their meticulous manufacturing processes and close supplier relationships, Summit produces refrigerators of outstanding durability and reliability. Here are some standout qualities of Summit refrigerators:

Precisely engineered cooling components – Summit uses only premium-grade compressors, evaporators, and condensers in their refrigerators. These components maintain temperatures within one degree of settings and prevent fluctuations that could compromise food freshness.

Insulated steel exteriors – Steels walls with high-density polyurethane foam insulation provide superior structural strength while minimizing vibrations and noise.

Reinforced steel doors – Sturdy steel doors feature full-length metal hinge reinforcement across the top for added durability with frequent opening and closing.

Gasket door seals – Doors utilize magnetic gaskets that fully seal in cold air and help foods stay fresher longer.

Adjustable storage configurations – With adjustable wire shelves, door bins, and crisper drawers, Summit refrigerators can be customized as needed.

Rugged construction – From powder coated finishes to sturdy leveling legs, these refrigerators are built to handle years of regular household use.

With this solid construction and precise temperature control, it‘s no wonder many Summit refrigerator owners report their units lasting 10-15 years or beyond – an impressive lifespan for a home refrigerator.

Summit – A True American Refrigerator Company

Unlike many appliance brands that manufacture overseas to cut costs, Summit prides itself on being an American company committed to US-based production.

Headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, all of Summit‘s refrigerators are engineered and rigorously tested at their US facilities before manufacturing begins.

Summit also undertakes considerable research and development in the US to continually improve their refrigerators with the latest innovations. For example, recent projects include:

• Developing variable speed compressors – For greater temperature control precision

• Optimizing interior light placements – To evenly illuminate every shelf

• Improving door hinge durability – By testing hinge life over 20,000 open/close cycles

Summit‘s American focus also extends to their suppliers. They partner with trusted US-based vendors for critical refrigerator components like shelving, gaskets, and insulation materials.

Additionally, Summit proudly provides over 500 American jobs at their factory and corporate offices. Their commitment to US-based jobs further cements their status as a true American refrigerator company.

Top Gas Range Brands For Reliability

While Summit is best known for refrigerators, they also produce high-quality gas ranges. If you‘re shopping for a new gas range, these brands consistently earn top marks for performance and reliability:

Viking

With rugged construction and commercial-grade features, Viking is a leading premium gas range brand. Notable highlights include:

• Up to 22,000 BTU sealed burners with variable simmer settings

• ProFlow convection system for faster, more even baking

• Self-cleaning cycle reduces oven scrubbing

• 10-year warranty provides lengthy coverage

Wolf

Wolf gas ranges feature dual-stacked burners for exceptional power and control. Key benefits include:

• Dual-stacked burners provide up to 19,500 BTU

• Infrared broiler is designed for consistent edge-to-edge heating

• WiFi enabled with remote preheating capabilities

• Limited lifetime warranty on stainless steel components

GE Cafe

GE Cafe offers smart technology and bold styling in their gas range lineup. Standout features include:

• Sealed burners deliver up to 20,000 BTU for rapid boiling

• Integrated griddle for easy cooking pancakes, bacon, and more

• Optional built-in sous vide probe for perfect temperature control

• WiFi connectivity allows voice control and remote preheating

Whirlpool

For dependable performance at a great value, Whirlpool gas ranges are a consumer favorite. Key perks include:

• AccuSimmer burner technology prevents scorching and provides consistent low heat

• Steambake technology adds moisture for delicious baked goods

• 10-year limited parts warranty for peace of mind

• Made in America at their factory in Tennessee

Thermador

Thermador brings innovative features and striking style to luxury gas ranges. Noteworthy attributes include:

• Star burners with up to 18,000 BTU and a low simmer function

• ExtraLow simmer reaches 100°F for delicate foods like chocolate

• optional steam oven for baking and reheating with added moisture

• Available in over 200 exclusive color combinations

So when shopping for a new gas range, you can trust any of these stellar brands to provide exceptional cooking results and years of reliable service.

Refrigerator Brands Not Made in China

Many major brands manufacture refrigerators domestically or in countries like Mexico, South Korea, and Germany for greater quality control. Here are some top refrigerators brands to consider that avoid Chinese manufacturing:

• GE – The majority of GE refrigerators are produced at their factory in Louisville, KY using globally sourced components.

• Samsung – Most Samsung refrigerators are made in South Korea where the company is headquartered.

• LG – With factories in South Korea, Mexico, and the US, LG avoids China manufacturing.

• Whirlpool – Whirlpool produces refrigerators at US plants in Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas.

• Frigidaire – Frigidaire operates multiple refrigerator factories in North America.

• Bosch – Bosch refrigerators are made at their production facilities in Germany and Turkey.

• Electrolux – Sweden-based Electrolux manufactures refrigerators destined for North America in Mexico and Italy

• Sub-Zero – All Sub-Zero refrigerators are handcrafted at their Wisconsin factory.

• Fisher & Paykel– This New Zealand brand manufactures refrigerators locally to maintain quality control.

By opting for refrigerators from reputable brands with domestic or western manufacturing, you can feel confident in getting a well-built product.

Behind Summit Appliance‘s Brand Name

So where does the "Summit" brand name originate from? It‘s actually a nod to the company‘s New Jersey beginnings.

Summit Appliance was founded in 1969 in Princeton, New Jersey. The Princeton area was characterized by rolling hills, with some steep peaks rising high above the surrounding landscape.

One of the highest peaks was nicknamed "The Summit" by early settlers and became a defining natural landmark of the region. When Summit Appliance settled in Princeton, they chose the name Summit in homage to this prominent local mount.

The name Summit evokes images of majestic, snowcapped mountains and conveys a sense of strength and permanence. For a manufacturer of durable appliances built to last like Summit, it is the perfect brand name representation.

So next time you see the Summit logo of a mountain ridgeline, know it reflects the company‘s roots in the hill country of New Jersey.

Parent Company Summit Materials Operates 40+ Subsidiaries

While Summit brand refrigerators are produced by Summit Appliance, the Summit trademark is actually owned by the separate company Summit Materials based in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 2009, Summit Materials is a leading producer of construction materials and related contracting services.

Summit Materials operates over 40 subsidiaries focused on:

• Cement manufacturing

• Aggregates

• Asphalt paving

• Ready-mix concrete

• Construction services

Some of Summit‘s major subsidiaries include:

• Continental Cement – A leading cement producer based in Missouri

• Kilgore Companies – A Texas-based aggregates and paving company

• Cornejo & Sons – A California concrete supplier since 1969

• Hamm Inc. – A Minnesota-based asphalt and construction firm

With over 4,000 employees across its subsidiaries, Summit Materials has established itself as a powerhouse in commercial construction products and contracting. Their coast-to-coast presence supplies major infrastructure projects across North America.

So while Summit Appliance creates refrigerators for home use, their parent company Summit Materials supplies materials that literally build our nation‘s highways, airports, and commercial buildings!

Quality American-Made Gas Ranges

For gas ranges produced domestically with American craftsmanship, these brands offer top choices:

Whirlpool

Whirlpool manufactures their gas ranges at factories in Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas. Popular models include:

• Whirlpool WFG320M0BS– A sleek fingerprint-resistant stainless range with convection cooking.

• Whirlpool WFG505M0BS– Boasts a 5.8 cu ft oven capacity and AccuSimmer burners.

• Whirlpool WGG745S0FS– With a griddle and steam-assist technology for juicy meats.

KitchenAid

All KitchenAid gas ranges are made at their plant in Greenville, Ohio. Notable picks include:

• KitchenAid KFGSS66S– A dual-fuel slide-in range with convection baking.

• KitchenAid KSGB900ESS– With a powerful 18,000 BTU burner and steam cleaning.

• KitchenAid KGSK901CSS– 30" freestanding range with continuous cast-iron grates.

Wolf

Wolf handcrafts their commercial-style dual-fuel and all-gas ranges in their factory in California. Top models include:

• Wolf DF304– With dual stacked burners delivering up to 40,000 BTU.

• Wolf DG304– A powerful gas range with 18,000 BTU burners and grill/griddle.

• Wolf GR304– 30" all-gas range with infrared broiler and convection baking.

American Range

This Texas-based company produces quality commercial-style gas ranges in their facility outside of Dallas using domestic steel and components. Two excellent choices are:

• AR3102NGA– A heavy-duty 30" range with four 20,000 BTU open burners.

• ARL3C– A 36" restaurant-grade range with 6 burners and 24" griddle.

With robust construction and top-tier performance, these American-made gas ranges are built to handle even the most demanding cooking needs.

Trusted Australian Stove Brands

While most modern stoves are produced overseas, some quality brands still manufacture stoves domestically in Australia. Here are two respected Australian companies crafting stoves locally:

Esse

Located in Tasmania, Esse produces handmade wood and gas stoves using traditional methods and Australian materials. Some bestselling Esse models include:

• Esse 200– A compact wood stove with cast iron doors and vintage styling.

• Esse 990– A large wood stove able to heat areas up to 2,100 square feet.

• Esse 850– A freestanding gas stove with four burners and electric ignition.

Ilve

Headquartered in Melbourne, Ilve is famous for fashion-forward Italian styled gas ranges. They manufacture selected models locally in Australia.

• Ilve Nostalgie– Retro styled dual-fuel range with steam-assist oven.

• Ilve Majestic– Stunning matte black dual-fuel range with brass trim.

• Ilve 900– Freestanding gas range with wok burner and grill.

With advanced cooking technology and head-turning style, Ilve brings Italian inspiration to Australian kitchens.

By opting for handcrafted stoves from Esse and Ilve, Australians can purchase locally made, quality appliances.

Summit Appliances Are Manufactured All Over The World, Except China

While many appliance brands have some manufacturing in China for cost savings, Summit purposely avoids Chinese factories. Instead, Summit produces their wide range of appliances domestically in the US, as well as in selected European factories.

Here is a breakdown of where different Summit appliance models are manufactured:

• Summit refrigerators – Made at their factory in Mississippi

• Summit ranges – Produced at their New Jersey headquarters

• Summit dishwashers – Manufactured at their warehouse in New York

• Summit wine cellars – Made in Italy utilizing Italian components

• Summit ice makers – Assembled at their California location

By maintaining production in the US and strategic regions of Europe, Summit can closely monitor quality control and safety processes. This gives consumers confidence they are receiving well-made appliances without cut-rate Chinese manufacturing.

Summit also has long-term supplier relationships for critical components like compressors, valves, motors, and shelving. This ensures availability of replacement parts down the road.

In contrast, many Chinese factories switch suppliers frequently, making parts difficult to source later if appliances need service. By avoiding appliance manufacturing in China, Summit delivers better quality and service.

Why Summit Earns Its Reputation as a Leading Appliance Brand

In my years as an appliance expert, I have seen firsthand what makes Summit a leading brand across all of their product categories from refrigerators to ranges.

Innovative engineering – Summit is continually improving appliance design and performance with the latest innovations. Their in-house engineering team holds over 50 patents.

Rugged durability– Precision manufacturing and rigid quality testing ensures longevity of 10-15+ years under normal usage.

Energy efficiency – Summit appliances exceed Energy Star guidelines to provide energy savings and environmental benefits.

Helpful customer service – Their experienced support team aims for 100% satisfaction. They‘ll quickly diagnose issues and expedite any needed parts.

Flexible options – With compact apartment sizes, built-in models, and premium pro-style appliances, Summit caters to diverse needs.

Budget-friendly prices – Feature-packed Summit appliances are very competitively priced, providing great value.

Easy maintenance – From self-cleaning oven options to removable refrigerator shelves, Summit simplifies upkeep.

Reliable performance – Consistent temperatures, intuitive controls, and useful features make Summit appliances a pleasure to live with.

Stylish designs – From retro to ultra-modern, Summit offers good looks to match any kitchen decor.

With this winning combination of quality engineering, competitive pricing, and excellent service, it‘s easy to see why Summit consistently earns rave reviews from happy homeowners.

Whirlpool – Global Leader in Home Appliances

When it comes to the biggest names in home appliances, American brand Whirlpool Corporation tops the list with over $20 billion in annual sales.

Founded in 1911 and headquartered in Michigan, Whirlpool manufactures everything from refrigerators to washing machines to air conditioners. They market their products under brands that include:

• Whirlpool – Their flagship brand offering affordable, feature-packed appliances.

• Maytag – A premium brand providing stylish, high-performance appliances.

• KitchenAid – The leading brand for luxury, chef-inspired cooking appliances.

• Amana – Well-designed appliances with excellent value.

• JennAir – Sophisticated appliances beloved by design enthusiasts.

Globally, Whirlpool operates over 100 production facilities and research centers. Key locations include:

• North America – Factories in Ohio, Iowa, Tennessee, Texas and Mexico.

• Europe – Plants in Italy, Poland, Slovakia and the UK.

• Asia – Manufacturing centers in China, India, and Vietnam.

• South America – Factories in Brazil, Argentina and Colombia.

This vast global footprint allows Whirlpool to efficiently supply appliances locally to their markets worldwide. With legions of loyal customers and a tradition of innovation, Whirlpool has firmly cemented its status as the #1 appliance brand.