After moving, first choose a fridge that can be delivered and installed in the space you have planned. An integrated model, in particular, needs a compatible housing unit, door fixing and ventilation, as set out in its manual. If you regularly stock up on frozen food, check the capacity of a separate freezer; if space is limited, an under-counter fridge or one with a small built-in freezer compartment could work, although there’ll be less room for storing food. Then compare the usable capacity, door opening, noise level and energy label of the specific model.
If you already have a housing unit and a door panel, check their dimensions, the door fixing and ventilation before choosing an integrated model. Electrolux manuals and Whirlpool product specifications show why these details need to be checked for each appliance.
If you like to stock up, check the freezer capacity separately from the fridge capacity. A small built-in freezer compartment won’t necessarily meet the same needs as a fridge-freezer with a separate freezer section.
In a small kitchen, studio flat or under a worktop, an under-counter model can free up space. However, check its usable capacity and whether it has a freezer compartment before ruling out a fridge-freezer.
Start with installation and storage space. An appliance can be both integrated and fitted with a small freezer compartment, so these features aren’t mutually exclusive.
| What matters | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation and access | Measure the space and the delivery route. For an integrated model, also check the housing unit, door fixing and ventilation against the manual. | If my new home has a housing unit or narrow access points, I first need to know whether the appliance will fit through and work in its intended position. Around 36 % of consumers prioritise this installation compatibility. |
| Fridge and freezer capacity | Compare the usable capacity of the fridge and freezer separately, then check whether freezing is provided by a built-in compartment or a separate section. | If I shop less often or stock up on frozen food, I need enough space in each compartment, not just a large total capacity. Storage capacity comes first for around 29 % of consumers. |
| Compact size | Check the available height and door clearance, then compare the usable capacity with your shopping habits. | In a studio flat or under a worktop, I want to save space without choosing a capacity that’s too small for my shopping. Compactness is the top concern for around 21 % of consumers. |
| Everyday use | Compare the energy labels and stated noise levels in dB(A) for the models you’re considering; check how they need to be defrosted. | If my kitchen opens onto the living room, noise matters every day; I also want to be able to assess energy use and maintenance. Around 14 % of consumers put these everyday-use considerations first. |
An integrated model also needs to fit the height and depth of the housing unit, the door system and the ventilation requirements. The Electrolux manual specifically says not to block the ventilation openings.
Measure all three dimensions of the housing unit and identify the door-panel fixing system before comparing the model manuals.
An incompatible housing unit or fixing system may need to be altered before installation.
An appliance that fits its intended space still needs to get through the entrance and corridors and, if necessary, up the stairs or into the lift. Electrolux France asks customers to tell the delivery company about any relevant access information.
Measure the access points, check the package dimensions and flag any access difficulties before the delivery appointment.
A built-in compartment may suit limited needs, but if you regularly store frozen food, check its capacity separately.
Compare the capacity of each section and the freezer compartment’s features with your shopping habits.
Noise levels and energy use vary between models. ADEME recommends using the energy label to help guide your choice; an old energy class shown on a product page shouldn’t be compared like-for-like with a current label.
Use the label for the model you’re considering and compare figures presented on the same basis, especially if the fridge will be near your living space.
The range includes integrated fridges with freezer compartments, including compact models.
The brand offers integrated fridge-freezers for fitted kitchens, among other models.
The Liebherr range includes both freestanding and integrated fridges.
The range includes freestanding fridge-freezers with a separate freezer section.
These models include freestanding fridge-freezers in different capacities, as well as an integrated fridge-freezer. Choose between them based on where you’ll install it, delivery access and how much room you need for frozen food.
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Worth considering if you have space for a freestanding appliance and want to divide your storage between fresh and frozen food. The model title lists four doors, Total No Frost and an E energy class. Check that the door opening works in your kitchen: the doors are listed as non-reversible, and the delivery route will need to be suitable too.
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A freestanding option to consider if you’re looking for a separate freezer section for your shopping. The model title lists three doors, Total No Frost, an E energy class, Wi-Fi and My Zone functions. Before choosing a position for it, check the door clearance and the access needed for delivery.
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Its stated width of 54 cm is worth considering for a narrow kitchen, while still giving you a separate freezer section. The title lists 153 l for the fridge and 74 l for the freezer, along with Low Frost and a reversible door. Before choosing this format, also check the height, depth, door clearance and defrosting requirements.
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Consider this if you’re looking for a freestanding fridge-freezer for modest storage needs. The title lists Low Frost, an adjustable thermostat and a reversible door. If you regularly stock up on frozen food, compare the freezer capacity with your shopping needs; also check the dimensions of the appliance and its packaging.
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Worth considering for a kitchen with a compatible housing unit, rather than a freestanding space. The title lists TwinTech No Frost and an E energy class. Before buying, check the housing unit dimensions, ventilation and sliding-door fixing; also confirm the capacities, as the two compartment figures listed don’t add up to the stated total.
No : it doesn’t mean that any integrated model will fit. Compare its height, width and depth with the model manual, then check the ventilation, hinges and door-panel fixing.
Que Choisir gives a general guideline of 100 to 150 l for one person, plus 50 l for each additional person. Compare this guideline with how often you shop, and check the freezer capacity separately if you store frozen food.
Yes. An Electrolux manual says not to block the ventilation openings in the appliance or integrated structure. Follow the clearances and installation requirements in the manual for the model you choose.
Measure the route to the installation space and tell the delivery company about any access difficulties. Electrolux France asks for relevant information about access to your home; specify the floor, whether there’s a lift and any narrow access points, then check separately what the installation service includes.