Start by working out how much space you need for fresh and frozen food, then compare the declared kWh/year of fridges with a similar configuration and capacity. The energy rating alone isn’t enough. If you don’t need freezer space, a fridge-only model means you won’t be paying for a feature you don’t use. If you have a separate freezer, add the energy consumption of both appliances together. ADEME also recommends keeping appliances for as long as possible and considering a repair if one breaks down, rather than replacing an appliance that still works based solely on the promise of theoretical savings.
You’re choosing or replacing an appliance that runs constantly and want to compare its energy use without sacrificing the storage space you need. ADEME points out that a larger capacity or buying more appliance than you need can increase your bills.
You need proper space for frozen food and are comparing the freezer capacity of a fridge freezer with that of a separate freezer. ADEME recommends taking the energy use of all the appliances you use into account.
Your fridge is still working, or a fault might be repairable. You’re weighing up future energy use against how long you’ll be able to use the appliance. ADEME advises considering a repair before replacing an appliance that has broken down.
Consider this if: you mainly store fresh food or already have a freezer that you genuinely need.
Bear in mind: there’s no space set aside for frozen food.
Consider this if: you need both compartments in a single appliance.
Check: even with a similar total capacity, the balance between fridge and freezer space can vary.
Consider this if: you need more freezer space than the fridge freezers you’re looking at offer, or you plan to keep a freezer that suits your needs.
Bear in mind: the two appliances take up space, and you’ll need to add their kWh/year figures together.
For households in France, ADEME points out that fridges and freezers run constantly, and that buying a larger appliance or more features than you need can push up your bills. The priorities below can help you compare storage needs, declared energy use and whether to replace your appliance.
| Consideration | What to check before you buy | Who is more likely to prioritise it |
|---|---|---|
| Declared annual energy consumption | The exact model, its kWh/year figure and comparable appliances of the same type and similar capacity. | If I want to keep a recurring expense under control without choosing an appliance that’s too small, I make this a priority. Around 33% of consumers put annual energy consumption first. |
| Space for frozen food | Freezer capacity, separate from fridge capacity; if you have two appliances, add their declared kWh/year figures together. | If I freeze food regularly, I need enough space and want to know whether a fridge freezer will be suitable. Around 27% of consumers prioritise space for frozen food. |
| Fresh-food capacity and features | The usable capacity in litres for fresh food and the features you’ll actually use. | If I want to store fresh food without buying an oversized appliance, I look for a capacity that suits the way I use it. Around 20% of consumers prioritise having the right amount of fresh-food space and useful features. |
| How long you’ll use it and whether to replace it | The condition of your current appliance, whether it could be repaired if it breaks down and the new model’s kWh/year figure. | If my appliance is still working or could be repaired, I want to consider those options before replacing it. Around 20% of consumers put how long they’ll use an appliance first. |
A lower annual energy consumption figure doesn’t mean the appliance will offer the storage space your household needs.
First compare the type of appliance and the fridge and freezer capacities, then look at the kWh/year figures for models that meet the same needs.
An appliance that’s too small or has no freezer could mean keeping or buying a second appliance.
Both the fridge and freezer run constantly, so leaving one out gives you a misleading comparison of declared energy consumption.
For a separate setup, add the kWh/year figures for both models and compare their capacities with those of the fridge freezer you’re considering.
Average energy consumption figures don’t tell you how much your old appliance actually uses or how long it will take to make up the cost of replacing it.
Don’t assume you’ll make a net saving. If your appliance breaks down, ADEME recommends considering a repair before deciding to replace it.
Replacing an appliance also uses resources to manufacture the new one.
The specifications mentioned relate to specific models. They don’t represent an assessment of an entire range or indicate product availability.
Its fridge-only models and fridge freezers let you compare different configurations.
Its fridge-only models and fridge freezers can be compared by configuration and freezer capacity.
The brand offers fridge freezers in different capacities, so consider which one suits the amount of space you actually need.
Its built-in fridge freezers may be suitable if your kitchen requires an integrated appliance to fit a specific space.
This selection features fridge freezers. Compare their declared kWh/year figures and the balance between fridge and freezer capacity, and check whether a model needs to be built in.
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This fridge freezer lets you compare its declared energy consumption with the amount of fridge and freezer space you need.
344 L total: 230 L for the fridge and 114 L for the freezer; declared energy consumption of 254 kWh/year and energy rating E.
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To see whether this fridge freezer is right for your household, compare its fridge and freezer capacities separately with your needs.
440 L total: 311 L for the fridge and 129 L for the freezer; energy consumption of 223 kWh/year and energy rating D stated.
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This built-in model may be worth comparing if its housing and installation requirements suit your kitchen.
252 L total: 176 L for the fridge and 76 L for the freezer; energy consumption of 150 kWh/year and energy rating C stated. Installation must follow the appliance’s dimensions and integration instructions.
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The layout of the compartments can help you decide whether this style suits your fresh and frozen food needs.
360 L total: 235 L for the fridge and 125 L for the freezer; energy consumption of 271 kWh/year and energy rating E stated. The product name mentions Total No Frost.
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When comparing this fridge freezer with other models, look at all three capacity figures, not just the total.
333 L total, including 183 L for the fridge, 113 L for the freezer and a 37 L cooling compartment; energy consumption of 169 kWh/year and energy rating C stated.
Check the exact model and its annual energy consumption in kWh on the energy label or product page. The French Ministry of the Economy explains that labelling requirements also apply to online sales. When comparing appliances, match their type and the capacity you need as closely as possible.
No, features vary between models. Bosch lists the KGE398IBP as having LowFrost but not No Frost, while Hisense states that the RB5K330GSFC has Total No Frost. Follow the instructions for the appliance you own, and don’t assume this difference guarantees a specific energy saving.
Fridges aren’t included in the product categories subject to this index, as listed by the DGCCRF in its guidance dated 26 June 2025. The absence of an index doesn’t prove that a model can’t be repaired: check its service information and, if your current appliance breaks down, whether it can be repaired.
If you buy from a professional seller, the statutory guarantee of conformity is separate from any optional commercial extended warranty. The French Ministry of the Economy says it applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold to consumers. When a new appliance is sold, the « one-for-one » take-back scheme requires the retailer to take back an equivalent used appliance free of charge. The DGCCRF advises checking the practical arrangements, particularly when ordering online.