Before installing or replacing a fridge, check that it will fit through to the kitchen and can be installed there in line with the instructions. Then choose the balance between fridge and freezer space that suits your shopping habits: a fridge-freezer is a good choice if you regularly buy frozen food, while a compact fridge or a one-door model may be enough if space is limited and you don’t have much to freeze. Finally, compare annual energy use and noise levels across models that meet your needs.
If space is limited and you mainly store fresh food, compare compact models and under-counter appliances. UFC-Que Choisir lists table-top fridges among the types suited to studio flats; check separately how much space is available for frozen food.
A fridge-freezer combines fridge and freezer compartments. When choosing the capacity, look at the volume of each compartment rather than just the total capacity shown.
Energy use matters for an appliance that runs continuously. Compare the annual figures for models with a similar capacity and that suit your needs; averages published by ADEME cannot predict how much energy an appliance will use in your home.
First, rule out any appliances that won’t fit the space or the delivery route. Then compare usable capacities, followed by the energy use and noise levels of the types that suit your shopping habits.
| Criterion | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Installation and access | Measure the space and the delivery route. For a built-in appliance, check the cabinet niche, door fixing and ventilation requirements against the model’s instructions. | If I’m replacing an appliance in a fitted kitchen, it needs to fit through the door and into the space provided. Around 33% of consumers say this compatibility is their top priority. |
| Capacity and frozen food | Compare the usable capacity of the fridge and freezer compartments separately with what you usually buy. | If I regularly buy frozen food, I need enough room for it without compromising on space for fresh food. Around 27% of consumers would prioritise how the capacity is divided. |
| Energy use | Check the energy rating and kWh/year on the label for the exact model; compare appliances of a similar type and capacity. | If I’m replacing a fridge that runs continuously, I want to compare its energy use with that of appliances that meet the same needs. Around 27% of consumers consider this their main criterion. |
| Noise | Check the noise level in dB and consider how close the fridge will be to a living or sleeping area. | In a studio flat or open-plan kitchen, I pay more attention to noise I can hear in my living space. Around 13% of consumers put quiet operation first. |
An appliance may fit within the space you’ve measured but still be incompatible with the cabinet niche, door system or ventilation requirements for installation.
Measure the height, width and depth of the niche, then check the door fixing and instructions for the exact model reference.
The rating alone doesn’t tell you the annual energy use or the capacity. ADEME points out that a fridge runs continuously.
Compare the kWh/year shown on the energy labels of models with a similar capacity and configuration.
A fridge that fits in your kitchen may not get through a narrow doorway while still in its packaging.
Measure doorways, hallways, stairs and lifts, then ask for the packaged dimensions and details of the delivery arrangements.
When replacing a fridge, removal of the old appliance needs to be coordinated with the arrival of the new one. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition describes a ‘one-for-one’ take-back service when you buy a product of the same type.
Before placing your order, ask the retailer how to arrange collection and prepare the appliance for removal.
The range includes compact fridges, one-door models, freestanding appliances and built-in models.
The range includes freestanding and built-in fridges, as well as fridge-freezers with a separate freezer compartment.
The range includes freestanding and built-in fridge-freezers, with features such as No Frost on selected models.
The built-in range includes under-counter appliances, fridges and fridge-freezers.
These models include freestanding fridge-freezers and built-in fridge-freezers. Compare their dimensions with your kitchen and the space you need for fresh and frozen food.
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Worth considering if you want a fridge-freezer with space for both fresh and frozen food. The model name indicates a capacity of 333 L, No Frost and an A energy rating. Check these details against the label for the exact model, and make sure it will fit through the delivery route.
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Worth comparing if your shopping needs include space for fresh and frozen food. The model name indicates a capacity of 344 L and an E energy rating. Check the capacity of each compartment, annual energy use and delivery route.
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Worth considering for a kitchen designed to accommodate a built-in fridge-freezer. The model name indicates a capacity of 252 L, No Frost, a C energy rating and an Inverter compressor. Be sure to check the niche dimensions, door fixing and ventilation requirements in the instructions.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a fridge-freezer for fresh and frozen food. The model name indicates a capacity of 333 L and a C energy rating. Check the capacity split and energy-use figures in the product documentation, as well as the space required for installation.
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Worth considering for a fitted kitchen with a cabinet niche and moderate frozen-food needs. The model name indicates a capacity of 188 L and an E energy rating. Before buying, check the freezer capacity, defrosting requirements, cabinet door fixing and any accessories you’ll need.
Compare the usable capacity of the fridge and freezer separately with what you usually buy. If you regularly store frozen food, check how much space is available for it; the total capacity alone won’t tell you how that space is divided.
Measure the cabinet niche and delivery route, then check the model’s instructions for clearance, ventilation and door-fixing requirements. The dimensions of another built-in fridge won’t confirm whether this model will fit.
Compare their energy ratings and annual consumption in kWh alongside their type and capacity. Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/2016 sets out the energy-labelling requirements for the domestic refrigeration appliances it covers; check the label for the specific model before you buy.
Before your new appliance is delivered, ask the retailer how to arrange removal of your old one. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition describes a ‘one-for-one’ take-back service linked to the purchase of a product of the same type; check the practical arrangements and any preparation required with the retailer.