First, choose the capacity you need for fresh and frozen food. A fridge-freezer combines both uses, while a separate freezer is better for larger reserves, as long as you have room to install it. To keep energy use down in an appliance that runs continuously, compare the annual kWh shown on the energy label for models of similar size and capacity.
If you’re replacing an appliance that runs day and night, avoid choosing extra capacity or features you won’t use. ADEME points out that fridges and freezers run continuously, so compare their annual kWh for models with similar capacities and formats.
If you regularly use both compartments, check their capacities separately before choosing a fridge-freezer. Its freezer space should suit the amount you usually keep in stock.
If you buy in bulk or store larger items, a separate freezer may be a good choice. An upright model makes it easy to reach items in drawers; a chest freezer needs enough floor space and room to open from the top.
Work out how much space you need for fresh and frozen food, then compare the energy use and installation requirements of formats that meet those needs.
Consider this if: you mainly buy fresh food and don’t need much freezer space.
Limitation: a small freezer compartment is no substitute for proper frozen-food storage.
Consider this if: you regularly store fresh and frozen food in one appliance.
Limitation: the integrated freezer compartment needs to hold enough for your usual supplies, even if the total capacity looks generous.
Consider this if: you regularly stock up on frozen food or need to store large quantities, and have space for an extra appliance.
Limitation: it takes up space and runs continuously in addition to your fridge.
| Criterion | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy use | Compare the kWh/year on the energy label for appliances with similar functions and capacities, and check their energy classes. | When an appliance runs all the time, I want to keep electricity use down without running out of room for my food. Around 36% of consumers prioritise this ongoing energy use. |
| Fresh and frozen capacities | Check the capacity in litres of each compartment and compare it with your usual shopping habits. | If I store both fresh and frozen food, I need a suitable balance of space rather than a large total capacity that I won’t use properly. Around 36% of consumers prioritise having storage that suits their needs. |
| Space and everyday use | Measure the space available and the access route for delivery. Check the door opening, the clearances specified in the manual and the noise level shown on the energy label. | In a compact kitchen or when replacing an appliance, I need to be able to get it in, install it and use it without any hassle. These practical considerations come first for around 28% of consumers. |
Appliances with different capacities or compartment layouts won’t offer the same benefits. The European Commission also says the energy label shows annual energy use, storage capacities and noise emissions.
Compare the kWh/year for models with similar functions and capacities, and pay attention to how the space is divided between fresh and frozen food.
Extra capacity or features you rarely use can add to the energy use of an appliance that runs continuously, as ADEME points out.
Think about your usual shopping and storage habits before opting for a large fridge-freezer or adding a separate freezer.
According to Haier France’s guide, a chest freezer suits bulky items, while an upright model makes it easier to organise and access food in drawers.
If you often reach for frozen food, look at the storage layout. If you’re considering a chest freezer, check how much room you’ll need to open it too.
Appliance dimensions vary by model, and the route to its final position matters just as much as the space in your kitchen.
Before ordering, measure the access route, check the manual for clearance requirements and confirm delivery and old-appliance collection arrangements with the retailer.
Bosch’s French range includes fridges, fridge-freezers and freezers, with freestanding and integrated options depending on the model.
Some Beko fridges have a fruit and vegetable compartment featuring HarvestFresh technology.
Whirlpool’s French range includes fridges and fridge-freezers, including some No Frost models.
These models meet two different needs: keeping fresh and frozen food in one appliance, or adding a separate freezer for extra storage. Before choosing, compare their specifications with those of appliances in the same format.
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For keeping fresh and frozen food together in a multi-door model. The product name lists a 467 L capacity, Total No Frost and an energy class of E.
Check the capacity of each compartment, the dimensions and the required clearances before deciding whether it’s right for your home.
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For households looking to store fresh and frozen food in a multi-door appliance. The product name lists a 495 L capacity and an energy class of E.
Check the fresh and frozen capacities separately, then check the dimensions and any requirements for the dispenser.
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For larger frozen-food reserves that call for a separate appliance. The product name lists a 291 L capacity, a convertible fridge or freezer mode, a removable basket and an energy class of E.
Make sure the top-opening design suits the space you have in mind. Compare its annual energy use with that of freezers of a similar capacity and for similar use.
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For keeping fresh and frozen food together in a 174 L format. The product name lists a reversible door and Low Frost function; this doesn’t mean you’ll never need to defrost it.
If ongoing energy use is a key factor in your choice, check the kWh/year on the energy label before comparing this model with other fridge-freezers.
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For keeping fresh and frozen food in one appliance. The product name lists a 444 L capacity, Total No Frost, 40 dB and an energy class of E.
Before choosing this total capacity, check how the space is divided between the compartments and the dimensions required for installation.
Compare the annual kWh and the fresh and frozen compartment capacities of appliances that meet the same needs. The European Commission says the label also shows the energy efficiency class and noise emissions.
No. The format alone isn’t enough to make that comparison. If a fridge-freezer’s freezer compartment meets your needs, you can avoid adding another appliance. If not, compare the annual energy use shown on the labels and the capacities you need for each set-up.
No Frost may be important if you want to reduce the need for defrosting. Whirlpool describes this feature on the models that include it. Check that it’s available on the specific model you’re considering, and compare the annual kWh and capacities separately.
You can look into the collection, return-to-store and social-economy organisation options outlined by the French ministry responsible for ecological transition. If you want your old appliance collected when your new one is delivered, check the arrangements for your order with the retailer.
Measure the space where it will go and the entire route to the kitchen. Then check that the doors can open and allow for the clearances specified in the model’s manual. Also confirm which delivery and installation services are included with your order.