Choose the format based on how much freezer space you actually need. A fridge on its own may be enough if you store few frozen foods; a fridge-freezer combines fresh and frozen storage in one appliance, while a separate freezer is suited to regularly storing larger quantities. Then compare the usable capacity and kWh/year of appliances that meet the same needs. The energy rating alone can’t predict your energy bill.
If you’re replacing an appliance to better manage your electricity use, compare the stated annual consumption of models with a capacity suited to your needs. The ADEME notes that refrigeration appliances run continuously.
If most of your shopping is fresh food, check how much freezer space you actually need before choosing a large freezer compartment. UFC-Que Choisir’s capacity guidelines can be a useful starting point, which you can adjust to suit your habits.
If you buy in bulk or regularly freeze prepared meals, compare the freezer capacity of a fridge-freezer with that of a separate freezer. Bear in mind, though, that a separate freezer adds another appliance that runs continuously, as the ADEME points out.
First work out how much fridge and freezer space you need, then compare the annual energy use of formats that meet those needs.
Consider it if: you store few frozen foods or already have enough freezer space.
Limitation: on its own, it won’t meet a regular need for frozen storage.
Consider it if: you regularly use both the fridge and freezer compartments but don’t need to store very large quantities of frozen food.
Limitation: check that the freezer compartment has enough space for your biggest shops.
Consider it if: you regularly need to store more frozen food than a fridge-freezer suited to your household can hold.
Limitation: this second appliance takes up space and also runs continuously.
| Factor | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy use | Compare the kWh/year and usable capacities of models with a similar format and capacity, rather than looking at their energy rating alone. | When an appliance stays plugged in all year, I want to know its stated energy use before choosing its size; around 42% of consumers prioritise this factor. |
| Capacity split | Check the usable capacity of the fridge and freezer separately, based on your usual shopping habits. | If I mainly store fresh food with a few frozen items, I need two suitably sized compartments without making either one unnecessarily large; around 33% of consumers prioritise this split. |
| Large freezer capacity | Work out the maximum amount you regularly store, then consider the space needed and kWh/year of any additional appliance. | For bulk buys or food I’ve prepared to freeze, I need enough room for a substantial amount of frozen food on a regular basis; around 25% of consumers prioritise this capacity. |
The rating letter doesn’t replace a comparison of kWh/year and usable capacity. The ADEME notes that an appliance’s size and having more capacity than you need can affect a household’s energy use.
First shortlist formats that meet your needs, then compare their stated annual energy use, dimensions and noise levels.
A separate freezer adds a continuous energy cost, even if you only use its capacity occasionally.
Estimate the maximum amount you regularly store and compare it with the freezer compartment of a suitable fridge-freezer.
Also make sure you have the space and suitable installation conditions for a second appliance.
Poor installation or a build-up of ice can affect how well an appliance works. UFC-Que Choisir recommends keeping it away from heat sources and checking for ice build-up on relevant models.
Measure the space, follow the clearances set out in the manual and check the cooling system if you want to reduce the need for defrosting.
Bosch offers fridge-freezers, with features that vary by model.
The Liebherr range includes appliances to compare based on the usable capacity you need and the space available in your kitchen.
Whirlpool offers fridge-freezers featuring Total No Frost technology.
These models combine refrigeration and freezing in a single appliance. Compare their stated total capacity with your needs, then check the capacity of each compartment, kWh/year and dimensions on the individual product page before choosing.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a four-door fridge-freezer and have enough space for it. The title lists a capacity of 467 L, an E rating and Total No Frost; check how the capacity is split between the fridge and freezer, along with the dimensions and clearance needed.
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Worth considering if a three-door fridge-freezer suits the way you like to organise your food. The title lists a capacity of 360 L, an E rating, Total No Frost, Wi-Fi and My Zone; compare the capacity of both compartments with your shopping needs and check that you have enough space.
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Worth comparing if you need both fridge and freezer space in one appliance. The title lists a total capacity of 368 L and an E rating; check how much space is available for frozen food, the kWh/year and the installation clearances.
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Worth considering if this total capacity suits the way you store fresh and frozen food. The title specifies 282 L and an E rating; check the usable capacity of each compartment and the dimensions before choosing this format.
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Worth considering if you regularly use both compartments and are looking for the stated total capacity of 440 L. Check the usable capacity of each compartment, kWh/year and dimensions. If a frost-free freezer is important to you, confirm the defrosting system on the product page.
Compare the kWh/year of appliances with a similar format and usable capacity, then use the A to G rating as another point of reference. The energy use shown on the label won’t necessarily match the results in every home: installation and usage also make a difference.
UFC-Que Choisir gives an average guideline of 100 to 150 litres for one person, then 50 litres for each additional person. Adjust this starting point to how often you shop and check separately how much freezer space you need.
No. No Frost alone doesn’t prove that one model will use less energy than another. If reducing the need for defrosting matters to you, look at this feature, then compare the kWh/year and usable capacities. UFC-Que Choisir notes that ice build-up can increase energy use on relevant appliances.
Measure the space and follow the manual for your chosen model, including guidance on clearances, ventilation and setting it up after transport. UFC-Que Choisir recommends keeping refrigeration appliances away from heat sources; always follow the instructions for your specific model.