If you’re replacing a fridge to reduce electricity use, first choose a size and capacity that suit your shopping habits and kitchen. Then compare the stated kWh/year figures for similar appliances. The energy rating alone isn’t enough: a larger appliance or one with features you rarely use can affect the overall picture, and the stated figure doesn’t guarantee a specific saving in your home.
If you’re thinking of replacing an old appliance because of your electricity bill, compare its energy use with that of the models you’re considering. Don’t assume every household will make the same savings. ADEME points out that cooling appliances run continuously.
If you store both fresh food and frozen food, check the capacity of each compartment separately. The total capacity in litres alone doesn’t tell you whether the balance suits your shopping habits.
If you’re drawn to a multi-door or American-style fridge freezer, weigh up its capacity and extra features against the space you have and how you’ll actually use it. ADEME notes that a larger size and unnecessary extras can increase energy use.
Work out the capacity and installation type you need before comparing stated annual energy use.
| Factor | What to check | Relevant to |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy use | Compare the kWh/year figures and energy ratings of models with a similar size and capacity. | If my electricity bill is the main reason for replacing my appliance, I want to compare annual figures rather than just the energy-rating letter; around 36% of consumers make this a priority. |
| Usable capacity | Check the fridge and freezer capacities separately in litres, based on your shopping habits. | If I regularly keep frozen food, reducing the freezer capacity would make storage more difficult; this is the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Installation and noise | Check the dimensions, required clearances and stated noise level in dB(A). | In a kitchen where space is limited, I need to be able to fit the appliance without overlooking noise near the living area; around 21% of consumers prioritise these practical considerations. |
| Size and features | Consider whether you’ll use a larger model or features such as water and ice dispensers. | If I rarely use these features, I’d rather choose the capacity I actually need; avoiding unnecessary extras is a priority for around 14% of consumers. |
The rating letter doesn’t replace the stated annual energy use. Capacity and configuration also vary from one model to another.
First decide how much fridge and freezer space you need, then compare the kWh/year figures for appliances with a similar size and capacity.
A dispenser or extra capacity can be useful, but ADEME warns that unnecessary extras can increase energy use. UFC-Que Choisir also describes American-style fridge freezers as more energy-hungry than conventional models.
Before choosing this type of model, make sure its capacity, footprint and every feature suit how you use it regularly.
An appliance that won’t fit the space or meet the installation requirements is still a poor replacement, whatever its energy rating.
Measure the space and delivery route, then check the required clearances, stated noise level and the model’s climate class.
Used fridges must be disposed of through an appropriate route for electrical and electronic equipment, as the Ministry for Ecological Transition points out.
Before you order, check the collection arrangements, particularly if your new appliance is being delivered to your home. Also find out which spare parts are available for the model you choose.
Bosch offers freestanding and integrated fridge freezers in France, with the freezer in different positions. Its range can be a useful starting point if the type of installation is a key factor in your choice.
Liebherr offers freestanding and built-in fridges. Choosing an appliance from this range will depend in particular on how it needs to fit into your kitchen and the capacity you’re looking for.
Haier offers double-door fridges, fridge freezers, side-by-side models and American-style fridges. Each type suits different needs in terms of capacity and space.
These fridge freezers suit a range of capacity and installation needs. If you’re replacing an appliance to reduce electricity use, make sure the size suits your needs, then check the energy label for the exact model before choosing.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a 333 L fridge freezer to store fresh and frozen food. The model name indicates a No Frost system. Compare its stated annual energy use with that of appliances with a similar capacity, and check the installation dimensions.
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Worth considering if a 333 L fridge freezer suits your storage needs. The model name lists NatureFRESH™, DoorCooling+™ and LinearCooling™. Think about whether these features would be useful to you, then check the capacity of each compartment and the kWh/year figure for the exact model.
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Worth considering if you’re replacing an integrated fridge freezer and want to keep the same type of installation. The model name lists a 252 L capacity and No Frost. Check that it fits the housing and cabinet door, then compare its kWh/year figure with those of other suitable built-in models.
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Worth considering if your needs call for a 440 L fridge freezer. Before choosing this larger model, measure the space and delivery route. Also check its stated kWh/year figure and how the freezer is defrosted.
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Worth considering if a 344 L fridge freezer suits your storage needs. Before deciding whether replacing your appliance will help you reduce energy use, compare its stated kWh/year figure with those of similar models and check your kitchen dimensions.
No. Also compare the stated kWh/year figure, the capacity of each compartment and the size of the appliance. The European Commission provides an A to G rating scale, while its EPREL database lets you check details including annual energy use and model capacity.
No. This is the stated annual figure for the model, not a guaranteed saving on your bill. Use it to compare appliances suited to similar storage needs. ADEME also points out that size and unnecessary extras affect energy use.
UFC-Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 litres as a starting point for one person, with a further 50 litres for each additional person. Adjust this guide to suit your shopping habits, the space you need for frozen food and the room available in your kitchen.
The Ministry for Ecological Transition says that a “one-for-one” take-back scheme applies when you buy a new appliance of the same type. Before ordering, check with the retailer how collection is arranged, particularly for home deliveries.
Ask which parts are available for the exact model and for how long. The DGCCRF explains that the minimum availability periods for domestic refrigeration appliance parts vary depending on the part. This information doesn’t replace checking the after-sales service options for the model you choose.