First work out how much space you need for fresh and frozen food, then compare the annual energy consumption and capacity of models that meet those needs. A fridge-freezer combines both compartments in one appliance; a separate freezer is worth considering mainly if you’ll use the extra capacity regularly. As ADEME points out, cooling appliances run continuously, so adding capacity you rarely use can increase energy consumption.
If your current appliance runs continuously, compare the capacity you actually use with the annual energy consumption of the model you’re considering. A newer model won’t necessarily be right for you if it has more capacity than you need.
If you keep frozen food, check whether a fridge-freezer’s compartment is big enough for your usual needs before adding a freezer that will run continuously.
An alcove, doorway or narrow passage can limit your options before you even compare energy use. For a built-in appliance, check the dimensions and fixing system against your kitchen fittings.
First choose the compartments and capacity you need, then compare the kWh/year figures for appliances that fit your space.
Consider this if: fresh food makes up most of what you store and you don’t need to freeze food regularly.
Bear in mind: there’s no capacity for frozen food unless you already have another suitable compartment.
Consider this if: you regularly use both fresh and frozen food compartments and want them in one appliance.
Bear in mind: the total capacity doesn’t tell you how many litres are available in each compartment.
Consider this if: your regular freezing needs exceed the capacity of a suitable fridge-freezer.
Bear in mind: you’ll need space for an additional appliance and it will run continuously.
Consider this if: your current appliance meets your usual storage needs and any extra freezer space is only needed occasionally.
Bear in mind: you’ll have less spare capacity when buying or preparing food in larger quantities.
| Criterion | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy consumption | Check the model’s kWh/year figure on the label and compare appliances that meet the same storage needs. | If my priority is the energy use of an appliance that stays plugged in all the time, I want to compare models by their annual figure. Around 36% of consumers put this consumption first. |
| Capacity in each compartment | Check the litres available for fresh and frozen food separately, rather than looking only at the total capacity. | If I store fresh and frozen food every week, the space in each compartment matters more to me than the overall capacity. Around 29% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Installation | Check the dimensions and door opening; for a built-in appliance, also check the housing and fixing type. | In a fitted or narrow kitchen, being able to install and open the appliance is my first concern. Around 21% of consumers would put whether it fits their space first. |
| Frost and maintenance | Check the frost-management system and maintenance instructions, without confusing them with the kWh/year figure. | If defrosting is a major concern for me, I mainly want an appliance whose maintenance suits the way I use it. Around 14% of consumers would make this their priority. |
Appliances with different energy ratings may also differ in format and capacity. According to the European Commission, the label shows the rating, energy consumption and compartment volumes: the letter alone doesn’t tell you whether an appliance suits your needs.
Compare the kWh/year figures and capacities of models that can store the same types of food, then check the noise level if it matters where you plan to put the appliance.
ADEME notes that size and certain always-on features can increase energy consumption. A freezer added for a few busy periods will still be running for the rest of the time.
Think about the quantities you usually store before choosing a large fridge-freezer or a separate appliance.
ADEME’s guidance covers appliance categories; it can’t predict how much energy the model you install will use.
For the model you’re considering, start with its stated annual consumption in kWh and your own electricity tariff if you want to estimate the cost.
The right capacity doesn’t guarantee that an appliance will fit into the housing or attach to your existing cupboard doors. The product specifications for built-in Beko and Electrolux models show why dimensions and the mounting system matter.
Measure the housing and check the fixings, door-opening direction and ventilation requirements for the model before ordering.
An appliance that isn’t compatible with your kitchen may require modifications.
The range includes freestanding fridge-freezers and built-in appliances. Compare the specifications of models in the format you need.
Worth considering for a built-in kitchen, where the freezer compartment and fitting system need to suit your space.
The brand offers A-rated fridge-freezers worth considering if their capacity and dimensions meet your needs.
Worth considering for built-in fridge-freezers when the housing and frost management are key factors in your choice.
These models combine fridge and freezer compartments. First choose the capacity and installation type that suit you; to compare models, check their energy labels and dimensions.
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For a fitted kitchen where both types of storage need to fit into one built-in appliance. The model name specifies No Frost and an energy rating of C; check the housing dimensions and installation instructions before buying.
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Worth considering if you regularly need plenty of space for fresh and frozen food. This model is listed with an E energy rating and Total No Frost; make sure its 467 L capacity and dimensions suit your needs and available space.
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Combines fresh and frozen food storage in a 360 L fridge-freezer. The model name specifies an E energy rating, Total No Frost, Wi-Fi and My Zone; compare the model’s kWh/year figure and check the clearance needed in your kitchen.
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Worth considering if a 333 L fridge-freezer meets your storage needs. The model name specifies an energy rating of C; check the capacity of each compartment, the dimensions and the clearance required for installation.
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For a fitted kitchen that needs a 249 L built-in fridge-freezer. The model name specifies TwinTech No Frost and an E energy rating; check the label for its kWh/year figure and make sure the housing and door fixings are suitable before choosing.
First compare appliances that meet your storage needs: a separate freezer doesn’t do the same job as a fridge. For suitable models, the European Commission says the energy label shows information including annual energy consumption and compartment volumes. Look at these figures together rather than relying on the energy rating alone.
Not for a specific model and household. ADEME’s guidance covers appliance types; to estimate the running cost of a model you’re considering, use its stated kWh/year figure and your own electricity tariff. Don’t assume your current appliance uses the same amount of energy as an average model.
Not on its own. These terms relate to frost management; to compare stated energy consumption, check the kWh/year figures for the specific models. Electrolux notes that excess frost can make the compressor run for longer, but this doesn’t quantify the difference between two appliances.
For a household fridge or freezer covered by EU energy labelling, check the A to G rating, annual energy consumption, capacity and noise level. The European Commission explains that the label’s QR code gives access to further information in EPREL. Always compare these details with the format and compartments you need.