First, work out how much fresh and frozen food your household actually needs to store. Then compare the kWh/year figures for models that meet those needs. ADEME points out that a fridge’s size and extra features can increase running costs. The EU energy label also shows usable capacity, which you should consider alongside the appliance’s dimensions and repair information.
When replacing their main appliance, these households want to compare annual energy use without sacrificing the space they need for their food. ADEME points out that fridges run continuously, and that both size and features affect how much energy they use.
They need enough space for frozen food and should compare fridge and freezer capacities separately to decide between a small freezer compartment and a fridge-freezer.
They prioritise fridge capacity and check whether a straightforward, single-door model will suit their space. The EU product information sheet distinguishes between storage capacity and whether the appliance has a freezer compartment.
ADEME advises taking size and features into account, as both can increase running costs. The EU energy label lets you compare the kWh/year and storage capacity of models that meet the same needs.
| What matters | What to check | Who is this most important to ? |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy use | Compare the kWh/year figures for the exact models and their usable capacities, rather than relying on the energy rating alone. | If I’m replacing my main appliance, I want to keep energy use down without losing the capacity I need. Around 36 % of consumers prioritise annual energy use. |
| Freezer capacity | Check the fridge and freezer capacities separately, along with the details for the freezer compartment. | If I regularly store frozen food, I check that the freezer space meets my needs. Around 29 % of consumers prioritise this capacity. |
| Fresh-food capacity and fit | Check the dimensions, whether it’s freestanding or built-in, the available space, door clearance and fridge capacity. | In a kitchen where space is limited, I’m looking for enough room for fresh food without taking up more space than necessary. Around 21 % of consumers prioritise space and fresh-food capacity. |
| Durability and repairability | Ask what parts are available for the exact model and compare the details of the appliance being sold, whether it’s new or refurbished. | If I want to keep my appliance for longer or have it repaired, I check the information for its exact model. Around 14 % of consumers prioritise repairability. |
More capacity or extra features don’t guarantee lower energy use. ADEME says that a fridge’s size and extra features can increase running costs, even for recent models.
Work out how much capacity you need first, then compare the kWh/year figures for models that meet those needs.
A freezer compartment and the freezer section of a fridge-freezer don’t offer the same storage. How capacity is divided between the compartments affects how you can use the appliance.
Check the fridge and freezer capacities separately, and read the details for the model.
The DGCCRF says refurbished appliances must be tested to ensure they work properly. However, this status alone doesn’t prove that an appliance uses less energy or is easier to repair.
Before comparing it with a new appliance, check the model, condition, relevant energy information and details about available parts.
When you buy a new appliance, the DGCCRF’s guidance says you’re entitled to free take-back of an equivalent used appliance on a “one-for-one” basis.
Ask the retailer how collection works, and check whether any other services they offer are separate.
The built-in ERB3DE12S and EFB3DE12S models show two options: a fridge-only model and one with a freezer compartment.
The KGN39VLCT is an example of a freestanding fridge-freezer with a bottom freezer. It’s worth considering if you need both compartments.
The B5RCNE405HXB and RDSA280K40SN models illustrate two different designs: a fridge-freezer with a bottom freezer, and a two-door fridge with a top freezer.
The CND2003-2 is an example of a 371 L freestanding fridge-freezer with a NoFrost freezer compartment. Connectivity is available as an optional extra.
This selection includes fridge-freezers, a single-door fridge and a compact appliance with a freezer compartment to suit different household needs.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding appliance with separate fridge and freezer compartments.
Capacity listed in the name: 488 L. Energy rating listed: E. Colour listed: black.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding appliance with separate compartments for fresh and frozen food.
Capacity listed: 467 L. Energy rating: E. Dimensions listed: 83,3 × 65 × 181,5 cm.
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Worth considering if you need separate compartments for fresh and frozen food.
Capacity listed: 444 L. Energy rating: E.
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Worth considering if you don’t need to freeze food in this appliance and are looking for a single-door model.
Capacity listed: 82 L. Energy rating: E. This model doesn’t have a freezer compartment.
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Worth considering if you need a compact fridge with a small freezer compartment.
Capacity listed: 45 L. Energy rating: E. The freezer compartment is listed as 3 L, so it won’t meet a significant frozen-food storage need.
No. Also compare the kWh/year figures and the fridge and freezer capacities shown on the EU energy label. It’s most useful to compare appliances that meet the same storage needs.
Anses recommends a temperature of 0 to +4 °C in the coldest part of the fridge, and regular checks, for example with a thermometer. It also advises against overfilling the fridge, so that air can circulate.
No. No Frost means you don’t need to defrost the specified compartment manually, but it doesn’t replace cleaning or checking the appliance. If ice forms, follow the model’s instructions and don’t use a sharp object to remove it, as Electrolux Assistance advises.
In France, the statutory legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to a consumer. You have two years from delivery to exercise this right. The rules on the presumption of when a fault arose differ for new goods and second-hand or refurbished goods, according to the French Ministry of the Economy.
In France, when you buy a new appliance, you’re entitled to free take-back of an equivalent used appliance on a “one-for-one” basis. Ask the retailer how to arrange collection when you place your order; the DGCCRF explains this obligation.