Households that stock up
If you shop less often, compare the space available for fresh and frozen food, as well as how the compartments are organised. Que Choisir recommends considering how often you shop when choosing a format.
Who is this option for ?
Households with limited kitchen space
The width and depth of the appliance, the route into your kitchen and the way the doors open can all limit your options. Check the dimensions and installation instructions for the exact model.
Households with changing storage needs
If your needs for fresh and frozen food vary independently, you can compare two separate appliances and choose the capacity you want for each. You’ll need space for both, and should consider their combined energy consumption.
Which criteria should you compare ?
To shop less often, start by choosing the right balance between fresh and frozen storage, then check the space required and the installation requirements for your chosen model.
Fridge-freezer
Choose this if : you want both compartments in one appliance and its freezer capacity is enough for your shopping. Bosch lists 260 L of fridge space and 103 L of freezer space for the KGN39AIAU, at 600 mm wide.
Check : the capacity split applies to this specific model; also check the space available and the installation requirements.
Multi-door fridge
Choose this if : you want a multi-door layout and have enough space for a wider appliance. Haier describes the HCR79F18CHMB as a four-door model measuring 905 mm wide.
Check : Haier’s advertised capacity of “up to 700 L” doesn’t tell you how much space is available for fresh and frozen food. Check the capacity of each compartment and make sure the doors can open fully.
Separate fridge and freezer
Choose this if : you want to choose separate capacities for fresh and frozen food and have room for two appliances. Whirlpool lists 365 L for the WHMLF 6442 XP4 fridge, while Bosch lists 334 L of freezer space and 14 h of storage time for the GSN36AICM.
Plan for : space for two appliances and a comparison of their combined annual energy consumption.
American-style fridge
Choose this if : you have enough space and want an American-style layout. LG lists a total capacity of 628 L and a width of 913 mm for the GSLE90EVAC.
Check : LG says this model requires a water connection. Also check the layout of each compartment and whether the appliance will fit along the delivery route.
| Criteria | What to check | Who should consider it ? |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity split | Compare the fridge and freezer capacity for the exact model; check that the storage suits the portions and containers you use. | When I shop for several days at a time, I want enough space in both compartments. Around 36 % of consumers prioritise the balance between fridge and freezer space. |
| Space and installation | Measure the space and the delivery route; check the manual for door clearance and ventilation requirements, and confirm whether any connections are needed. | If my kitchen is narrow, I need to be able to install the appliance and open its doors without blocking the way. Around 29 % of consumers prioritise fitting the appliance into the available space. |
| Keeping food cold | Check the storage time stated for the exact model and how it was measured; don’t mistake a stated figure for a test result. | When storing frozen food between shops, I want to know what the manufacturer says about a power cut and the conditions that apply. Around 21 % of consumers prioritise how well the appliance keeps food cold. |
| Energy use and maintenance | Compare the kWh/year figures on the energy labels; if you’re buying two appliances, add their figures together on the same basis and check their maintenance instructions. | If I’m considering two appliances, I want to compare their combined energy use and plan for their maintenance. Around 14 % of consumers prioritise running costs and maintenance. |
Pitfalls to avoid
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Choosing based on total capacity alone
A large total capacity doesn’t guarantee that the freezer will be big enough for your needs. The European energy label shows the capacity of frozen and unfrozen compartments separately.
Compare the capacity of each compartment for the exact model, then check that the drawers and storage space suit your habits.
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Measuring the space without checking installation requirements
The appliance’s dimensions don’t always tell you whether it can be installed as intended. LG says the GSLE90EVAC requires a water connection.
Check the delivery route, door clearance and ventilation instructions in the manual for your model. Don’t assume that a brand’s recommendations apply to a different model.
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Comparing one appliance with only part of a two-appliance setup
If you choose a separate fridge and freezer, you need to consider their combined energy consumption. Comparing a fridge-freezer with the fridge’s kWh/year figure alone leaves out the freezer.
Check the kWh/year figures on the energy labels for both models and add them together to compare their stated annual consumption on the same basis. This alone won’t predict your actual bill.
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Treating the stated storage time as a guarantee
The stated storage time depends on the model and how it’s defined. Que Choisir describes a freezer test that measures how long it takes to warm from −17 °C to −9 °C without power; this test doesn’t mean every appliance has the same storage time.
Check the figure and test method for the model you’re considering. Anses also recommends monitoring your fridge’s temperature and avoiding overfilling it, so air can circulate.
Brands and models to know
Bosch
The KGN39AIAU and GSN36AICM are examples of a fridge-freezer and a separate freezer respectively.
- Bosch lists 260 L of fridge space and 103 L of freezer space for the KGN39AIAU; the GSN36AICM is listed with 334 L of freezer space and 14 h of storage time.
- These specifications apply to these specific models and don’t describe every Bosch appliance.
Haier
The HCR79F18CHMB is an example of a four-door, multi-door format for a kitchen with room for a wide appliance.
- Haier lists this model as 905 mm wide and advertises a capacity of up to 700 L for its collection.
- Check the capacity of each compartment and the space required to open the doors and install the appliance.
Whirlpool
The WHMLF 6442 XP4 is an example of the fridge in a setup with two separate appliances.
- Whirlpool lists a usable capacity of 365 L for this single-door fridge.
- It doesn’t replace a separate freezer: allow space for one and compare the combined energy consumption of both appliances.
LG
The GSLE90EVAC is an example of an American-style fridge with a dispenser, for a household with the space and water connection it needs.
- LG lists a total capacity of 628 L and a width of 913 mm for this model.
- LG says a water connection is required; the total capacity doesn’t refer only to the freezer compartments.
Fridge-freezers at Joybuy
These Joybuy models include fridge-freezers, multi-door and American-style formats, bringing fresh and frozen food storage together in one appliance. Compare the capacity of each compartment and the dimensions before choosing.
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Samsung RF48A401EB4, 488 L, E energy rating, black
The product details list fridge and freezer capacity separately, helping you organise storage for both types of food.
329 L fridge capacity and 159 L freezer capacity; Twin Cooling.
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Hisense RS3P558NEID, 544 L
The internal water tank may suit you if you want a dispenser without a fixed water connection.
347 L fridge capacity and 197 L freezer capacity; freestanding; stated dimensions: 911 × 1786 × 615 mm.
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Samsung RB38C603CS9, 390 L, C energy rating
This freestanding fridge-freezer brings the fridge and freezer compartments together in one appliance.
276 L fridge capacity and 114 L freezer capacity; stated width of 59,5 cm; reversible door; stated energy consumption of 169 kWh/year; stated storage time of 9 h.
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Haier HTW5618ENMG, 360 L, E energy rating
The three-door layout lets you compare how storage is divided between the fridge and freezer.
235 L fridge capacity and 125 L freezer capacity; stated width of 59,5 cm; stated storage time of 11 h in the event of a power cut.
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Hisense RQ5P470SETE, 483 L, four doors
The My Fresh Choice zone can be set between +5 °C and −18 °C, giving you flexibility over how you organise your food.
304 L fridge capacity; 179 L across the freezer and variable-temperature zone, including an 87 L freezer and a 92 L two-star compartment.
Frequently asked questions
Is total capacity enough to choose between fridge and freezer space ?
No: compare the stated capacity of the frozen and unfrozen compartments separately, then check the storage layout of the model you’re considering. The European energy label lists capacity by compartment type.
How can I check storage time during a power cut ?
Check the figure and method for the specific model. Bosch lists 14 h for the GSN36AICM freezer; Que Choisir describes a test measuring how long it takes to warm from −17 °C to −9 °C without power. This information doesn’t mean other appliances have the same storage time.
What should I check before installation ?
Measure the space and delivery route, then check the manual for clearance, ventilation and door-opening requirements. LG says the GSLE90EVAC requires a water connection.
How should I store food after shopping ?
Anses recommends keeping the temperature at 4 °C in the coldest part of the fridge and avoiding overfilling it, so air can circulate. This advice is about food storage and doesn’t guarantee that food will stay cold during a breakdown.
What warranty and old-appliance collection rules apply in France ?
According to the DGCCRF, claims under the statutory legal guarantee of conformity against a professional seller must be made within two years of the goods being delivered; a commercial warranty is optional and separate. When you buy a new appliance, the “one-for-one” take-back scheme requires the retailer to collect an equivalent used appliance free of charge. Ask about the practical arrangements for collection and delivery.