Choose a size based on where the fridge can actually go and how much freezer space you need for your shopping. A compact model works if you don’t need to store much. For a weekly shop that includes fresh and frozen food, compare the separate capacities of fridge-freezers, and only choose a multi-door model if its capacity and dimensions suit your needs. Then check the exact model’s annual energy consumption and noise level.
In a compact kitchen, first check that the appliance will fit through the door, can be installed and can be opened without blocking access. UFC-Que Choisir suggests a table-top model as an option for a studio flat, provided its capacity suits your shopping habits.
If you store fresh and frozen food for several days, look at the capacity of each compartment rather than the total volume. A fridge-freezer brings both spaces together in one appliance.
As your fridge runs continuously, compare its annual energy consumption, capacity and stated noise level, especially if your kitchen opens onto your living space. ADEME points out that choosing a larger fridge than you need, or one with more features than necessary, can increase energy consumption.
Worth considering: for a small home, if you only need to store a limited amount of fresh and frozen food.
Bear in mind: usable capacity is limited. For a table-top or single-door model, check exactly how much the freezer compartment can hold.
Worth considering: if you want to keep fresh and frozen food in separate compartments after your weekly shop.
Bear in mind: check its dimensions against your kitchen, and remember that the split between fridge and freezer space varies by model.
Worth considering: if you need plenty of space and the chosen model will fit both your access route and the space available.
Bear in mind: it takes up more room. ADEME also recommends avoiding a model that’s larger than you need.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Measure the space, access routes and door clearance. Check the model’s instructions for required clearances and installation details. | In a small kitchen, I want to be able to install the appliance without blocking doors or walkways; around 31% of consumers prioritise a compact fit. |
| Fridge and freezer capacity | Compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately, in litres, and consider what you usually buy. | For my weekly shop, I want enough space for fresh food without compromising on freezer capacity; around 38% of consumers put this balance first. |
| Noise and energy use | For models of a similar size and capacity, compare the kWh/year, energy rating and stated noise level in dB on the label. | If my kitchen is next to my living space, I care about keeping noise and energy use down in an appliance that’s always on. Around 31% of consumers prioritise these two factors. |
A large stated capacity doesn’t guarantee enough room for a week’s worth of frozen food. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between storage needs according to how often you shop and how much frozen food you buy.
Compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately, then consider how they match what you usually buy.
Installation and ventilation requirements depend on the appliance. The option to install some Bosch models against a wall doesn’t apply to every fridge.
Before choosing a model, check its instructions for the clearances required, as well as access and door-opening space.
If your kitchen can’t accommodate these requirements, you’ll need to rethink your layout.
Two appliances of different sizes may not meet the same storage needs. ADEME points out that choosing a larger fridge than you need, or one with more features than necessary, can increase the energy use of an appliance that runs continuously.
Compare models with similar dimensions and capacities, looking at both the energy rating and the kWh/year shown for each one.
In a studio flat or open-plan kitchen, it’s worth checking the stated noise level before you buy. According to the European Commission, this information appears on fridge energy labels.
When comparing appliances, check the exact model’s noise level in dB and its noise class.
Bosch offers freestanding and integrated fridge-freezers to suit different kitchen layouts.
Liebherr’s fridge-freezer range includes large-capacity models to consider if you have enough space.
Whirlpool offers freestanding and integrated fridge-freezers for keeping fresh and frozen food in one appliance.
As a starting point, UFC-Que Choisir recommends 100 to 150 L for one person, plus 50 L for each additional person. Adjust this guide to how often you shop, and check the space for fresh and frozen food separately.
The European energy label shows the A to G rating, annual consumption in kWh, storage capacities and stated noise level. According to the European Commission, you can scan its QR code to find the model’s details in EPREL. When comparing appliances, focus first on models with similar dimensions and capacity.
Measure the space, doorways and access routes, then compare these measurements with the exact model’s dimensions. Its instructions set out the installation, door-opening and ventilation requirements. Don’t assume the clearances for another appliance will apply.
EPREL, the European Commission’s database, lets you look up information about models sold in the European Union that require an energy label. Depending on the details provided for the model, it may also include repair instructions and information about spare parts.