Start by measuring the space, the delivery route and, for an integrated model, the cabinet opening and door-fitting requirements. A fridge freezer is the right choice when you need proper refrigeration and freezing zones in a single appliance, while an integrated model is only suitable if the cabinetry, ventilation and cabinet-opening dimensions match the model precisely. Then compare the separate capacities, energy label, annual consumption, noise level and installation requirements.
Check the space, the route to the kitchen, usable capacity and ventilation before delivery. ADEME points out that refrigeration appliances run continuously, making it particularly important to choose the right size.
A larder fridge with a freezer compartment may be suitable if its freezer capacity genuinely matches your habits. Beko recommends adjusting capacity to the proportion of fresh and frozen food you store.
To maintain a seamless fit with your cabinetry, check the cabinet-opening dimensions, ventilation and door compatibility for the exact model. Bosch and Electrolux product specifications distinguish these measurements from the appliance’s external dimensions.
First choose a configuration that fits the available space, then compare the capacity of each zone and the specifications of the exact model.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Measure the height, width and depth of the space, then check doors, corridors and landings. For an integrated model, also check the cabinet opening, ventilation and door-fitting system. | I want the appliance to be deliverable, fit into the kitchen and open without obstructing the wall or neighbouring unit. |
| Fresh and frozen food split | Compare the net litres of the fridge and freezer separately. Also check the freezing capacity in kg/24 h if you regularly add food to be frozen. | My shopping consists mainly of fresh food, or alternatively lots of frozen food : each zone needs to match this balance. |
| Continuous energy use | For appliances with a similar capacity and configuration, look at the A to G label, kWh/year and the features that are genuinely useful. According to the European Commission, the A to G EU energy label has applied to fridges and freezers since 1 March 2021. | I’m looking for an appliance suited to my everyday use, without choosing excessive capacity that would remain powered around the clock. |
| Cooling and everyday use | Check the controls, door alarm, fast-freezing functions and installation requirements. Anses recommends a temperature of between 0 and +4 °C at the coldest point. | I open the doors frequently or store large shops : I want to be able to monitor the temperature easily and allow air to circulate. |
An appliance that fits through the kitchen door is not necessarily compatible with a unit, door front or cabinet opening. For example, the Electrolux specification for the ENT6ME19S model states a cabinet opening of 1894 × 560 × 550 mm.
Record the dimensions of the space and the access points separately. For an integrated model, check the cabinet opening, hinge or sliding system and ventilation clearances in the technical specifications and installation instructions.
A suitable total capacity can conceal a freezer section that is too small or insufficient fridge space. The balance you need depends on your shopping, frozen food and meal preparation habits.
Compare the net litres of refrigeration and freezing separately. Manufacturers’ capacity guides can provide a useful starting point, but adapt them to your own storage habits.
Refrigeration appliances run continuously, and their size can affect energy consumption, ADEME points out. The same energy class does not make two appliances with different capacities or configurations directly comparable.
For comparable models, check the A to G label, kWh/year, usable capacity and essential features. The label’s QR code provides access to product information available in EPREL.
Insufficient ventilation can affect performance, while a temperature that is too high can compromise food storage. Anses recommends aiming for between 0 and +4 °C at the coldest point.
Install the appliance level, follow the ventilation requirements in its instructions and avoid blocking the circulation of air between food items. Check the temperature after switching it on.
A brand worth comparing for freestanding or integrated projects, particularly when cabinet-opening dimensions and installation are top priorities.
A brand to consider when comparing fridge freezers, compact formats or slim appliances for a smaller kitchen.
A relevant brand for comparing integrated fridge freezers whose French specifications detail the cabinet opening, separate capacities and annual consumption.
An option to compare for kitchens where cabinet-opening dimensions, capacity and noise need to be assessed model by model.
These Joybuy options are mainly freestanding fridge freezers for equipping a kitchen after moving home. Always check the dimensions, clearances, separate capacities and installation requirements for the model you choose.
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Worth considering for a household with significant fresh and frozen food storage needs and a sufficiently spacious kitchen.
Advertised capacities of 330 L for refrigeration and 165 L for freezing, width of 81.7 cm, dimensions of 177.6 × 81.7 × 71.5 cm, energy class E and 301 kWh/year.
Check access points, the available width and the advertised 50 mm clearance. Also confirm the distributor’s and installation requirements in the instructions.
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A fridge freezer for storing fresh and frozen food every day in a single appliance.
Advertised capacities of 210 L for refrigeration and 106 L for freezing, freezing capacity of 6 kg/24 h, energy class D, 198 kWh/year and dimensions of 186.5 × 59.5 × 66.3 cm.
Check the height, depth, advertised 5 cm clearances and the required door-opening direction ; a reversible door is not specified.
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This multi-door format meets substantial fresh and frozen food storage needs, provided you have a sufficiently wide space.
Advertised capacities of 311 L for refrigeration and 156 L for freezing, 35 dB(A), freezing capacity of 10 kg/24 h and dimensions of 181.5 × 83.3 × 65 cm.
Measure access to the property, door clearance and the installation space. The doors are not reversible, and the model-specific clearances should be checked in the instructions.
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A slim fridge freezer for a kitchen with limited width that still needs separate fresh and frozen food zones.
Advertised width of 54 cm, with 187 L of refrigeration, 75 L of freezing capacity, energy class E, 215 kWh/year and dimensions of 176 × 54 × 55.5 cm.
The Low Frost freezer requires manual defrosting approximately once or twice a year, according to the product information. Also check ventilation clearances and avoid installing it below 16 °C.
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A tall freestanding fridge freezer for households seeking generous capacity in a standard-width format.
Advertised total capacity of 375 L, Total No Frost, energy class B, fridge temperature setting from 1 to 7 °C and dimensions of 203 × 59.5 × 67.5 cm.
Check the 203 cm height, depth, advertised clearances of 50 mm at the sides and 100 mm at the rear, as well as the separate capacities to ensure they suit your habits.
Yes. According to the European Commission, fridges and freezers have been covered by the European Union energy label, on a scale from A to G, since 1 March 2021. Also compare kWh/year and capacities, as the same class does not make two formats directly equivalent.
Measure the height, width and depth of the space, then the delivery route to the kitchen : entrance, corridors, lift, landings and internal doors. For an integrated model, measure the cabinet opening, check the door-fitting system and follow the ventilation requirements in the model’s instructions.
Always prioritise the installation instructions for the model you choose. In its guide, Bosch recommends at least 200 cm² of ventilation space at the rear and underneath the appliance ; this guidance does not replace the requirements specific to the model you buy.
Anses recommends a temperature of between 0 and +4 °C at the coldest point. Check it regularly and avoid overloading the compartments so that cold air can circulate.
An old fridge comes under France’s waste electrical and electronic equipment recycling scheme. Ask the seller about collection and your local authority or a collection point about choosing a suitable solution.