If you’re only running short of freezer space, a standalone appliance adds storage without replacing your fridge. Choose an upright freezer if you regularly need to find individual portions, a chest freezer for storing batches if you have enough floor space, or a table-top model for a small amount of extra capacity. If you’re also short on fridge space, compare the capacity of both compartments in a larger fridge-freezer instead. In all cases, check the access route to the intended spot, the room temperature and the specifications of the model you choose.
If you want to store bulk buys or prepared portions without filling up your fridge’s freezer compartment, start by comparing how much you need to freeze. A chest freezer has room for bulky items, while an upright freezer makes it easier to sort and access individual portions.
A table-top freezer can add a modest amount of capacity without taking up a large amount of floor space. Check that it’s big enough for your usual shopping, and if you plan to install it under a worktop, make sure the model and required clearances allow for this.
These spaces can accommodate a chest or upright freezer if there’s enough room and access is suitable. Compare the room’s temperatures throughout the year with the appliance’s stated operating range: an unheated room isn’t automatically suitable for every model.
Start with the capacity you actually need, then check that your chosen format can be delivered, installed and used in the intended room.
| Factor | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Compare the freezer compartment’s capacity in litres with what you actually store. UFC-Que Choisir says chest freezers can hold up to 600 L, while upright models generally offer around 200 L and can hold up to 400 L. | I want to store bulk buys or prepared meals without choosing an oversized appliance. If I’m also short on fridge space, I’ll compare the capacity of both compartments in a fridge-freezer. |
| Access to food | Check the drawers, baskets and whether the appliance can be fully opened in its intended position. With a chest freezer, plan how you’ll reach items at the bottom. | I often take out one portion at a time, so being able to separate and find bags matters more to me than having one large open compartment. |
| Room temperature | Compare the room’s minimum and maximum temperatures with the model’s manual. Bosch gives a range of 10 to 43 °C for climate class SN-T; the model you choose must explicitly state if it can operate at lower temperatures. | My garage or cellar can get cold in winter, so I need to choose based on the temperature of that room, not just the available space. |
| Energy use and power cuts | Compare annual energy consumption in kWh/year between appliances of similar format and capacity. Check each model’s stated storage time during a power cut separately. | An extra appliance will be plugged in all the time, and I also want to know its stated storage time in case of a power cut. |
| Access and installation | Measure doorways, corridors, stairs and lifts, as well as the final location. Check the manual for ventilation and door or lid clearance, and confirm where the delivery service will leave the appliance. | I need to be able to get the appliance into the room and fully open its drawers or lid once it’s in place. |
Its compartment can hold bulk buys and bulky items, but food at the bottom is harder to reach and the lid needs room to open.
Measure the available space and consider where you’ll put the portions you use most often, taking into account the baskets supplied with the model.
Whether an appliance can be used in a cold room depends on the model, not just whether it’s a chest or upright freezer. For example, Liebherr states that FrostProtect allows the CFd 2505 Plus to operate down to −15 °C; this doesn’t apply to other models.
Check the room’s temperatures, then compare them with the operating range in the manual before deciding where to put the appliance.
Two appliances with similar capacities can have different annual energy consumption and storage times during a power cut. A larger model may also need special arrangements to get it to the installation room.
Compare these figures model by model, measure the delivery route and confirm what delivery service you need before ordering.
A larger fridge-freezer won’t necessarily give you enough extra freezer capacity. For example, Electrolux states that the ENT6NE18S1 has 62 L of freezer space and 195 L of fridge space.
Compare the capacity of each compartment with how you’ll use it. If your current fridge is big enough, consider adding a standalone freezer too.
These models give you examples of different formats and points to consider. Their specifications don’t apply to every model from the same brand.
The GSN58AWCV is an example of a large upright freezer to consider if vertical storage suits your needs.
The CF200EWN and FSE1174N offer examples of a chest freezer and a table-top model respectively.
The CFd 2505 Plus chest freezer is one model to consider for an unheated room, provided you check all the installation requirements.
The built-in ENT6NE18S1 is a useful comparison if you’re also thinking of replacing your fridge.
This selection includes chest freezers in two sizes, an upright freezer, a compact vertical freezer and a fridge-freezer to consider if you also need to replace your fridge. Compare the capacity and format with your needs, then check the installation requirements for the model you choose.
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Worth considering for storing bulk buys if you have enough floor space for a chest freezer. The product name lists a removable basket, an energy rating of E and a 5-level temperature control. Check the permitted room temperature range and the ventilation clearance required for your chosen location.
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Compare this with a standalone freezer if you’re also looking to replace your fridge. The product name lists a total capacity of 360 L, Total No Frost and an energy rating of E. Check the capacity of the freezer compartment itself before deciding.
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A chest freezer to consider for a little extra space rather than large amounts of shopping. The product name lists a removable basket, a 7-level thermostat and an energy rating of E. Check how much room you’ll need to open the lid, as well as the permitted room temperature.
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Worth considering if you prefer vertical storage that makes it easier to find individual portions. The product name lists drawers, a reversible door and an energy rating of C. Check the dimensions and clearance requirements before choosing where to put it.
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One to consider for a few extra portions when space is limited. The product name lists three drawers, a reversible door and an energy rating of E. If you plan to put it under a worktop, check the dimensions and required clearances.
Yes, as long as the model’s stated operating range covers the room’s temperatures. Bosch gives a range of 10 to 43 °C for climate class SN-T; for the CFd 2505 Plus, Liebherr separately states that FrostProtect allows it to operate down to −15 °C. Check the manual for your specific model rather than assuming all chest freezers can cope with the cold.
Only if the new freezer compartment has enough capacity for your needs. Compare its capacity separately from the total: for example, the Electrolux ENT6NE18S1 has 62 L of freezer space and 195 L of fridge space. If you only need more freezer space, compare standalone models too.
Yes. Compare the dimensions of the appliance and its packaging with your doorways, corridors, stairs and lifts, then check there’s enough room at the final location. BUT recommends checking access for heavy or bulky appliances before delivery.
It depends on the clearances required in the manual and the space needed to open the door or use the drawers. A Bosch manual specifies side clearances when the appliance is in a corner or alcove, to let warm air escape and allow the doors to open fully. Check the instructions for the model you’re installing.