Start by choosing the amount of fridge and freezer space you’ll actually use. Then compare the annual energy consumption in kWh of suitable models, rather than looking only at their energy rating. A fridge-freezer combines both functions in one appliance. If you need a lot of freezer space, or very little, consider separate appliances or a fridge with a small freezer compartment respectively. In every case, check the space available and the installation requirements too.
If you’re replacing an appliance that runs constantly, start with the capacity you need and compare the stated kWh/year. ADEME points out that cooling appliances run continuously. The energy rating alone doesn’t tell you the annual energy consumption.
The freezer space you need can help you decide between a fridge-freezer and two separate appliances. Check the capacity of each compartment before deciding whether you’d benefit from extra freezer space.
If you rarely freeze food, a smaller capacity or a small freezer compartment may suit your needs. Check the capacity of each compartment, the appliance’s dimensions and the space required for installation separately.
The right format depends mainly on how much space you need for fresh and frozen food. Once you’ve worked that out, compare the stated energy consumption of appliances with similar configurations and capacities.
Consider this if: you regularly use both compartments and one appliance offers the capacity you need.
Bear in mind: an oversized fridge-freezer adds capacity you may not use.
Consider this if: you consistently need plenty of freezer space and have room for two appliances.
Bear in mind: each appliance takes up space, and you’ll need to add their annual energy consumption together.
Consider this if: you mainly store fresh food and only a small amount of frozen food.
Bear in mind: the compartment limits how much frozen food you can store. Check its specifications if you also want to freeze fresh food.
| Criteria | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy consumption | Compare the kWh/year and energy ratings from A to G of models with similar capacities and configurations. | If I’m replacing an appliance that runs constantly, I want to limit its energy use without losing the capacity I need. Around 36% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Usable capacity | Check the fridge and freezer capacities in litres separately, then note the external dimensions. | When space is limited, I don’t want to give up room for compartments that are too large for my groceries. This would be the priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Freezing capacity | Check the capacity and type of compartment. If you’re buying two appliances, add together their stated kWh/year. | I regularly store frozen food and need enough capacity to suit this habit. Around 21% of consumers would put this need first. |
| Features and installation | Check the noise level, dimensions, climate class and required clearances. Choose features that suit how you’ll actually use the appliance. | In my kitchen, the available space or noise level might determine my choice, even if other appliances have a similar capacity. This would be a priority for around 14% of consumers. |
The DGCCRF describes the energy label as a tool to help you compare products when shopping. Bosch’s guide explains that, for cooling appliances, the label shows details including annual energy consumption, compartment capacities and noise level.
The rating by itself won’t tell you whether two appliances offer the same capacity or how much each one is expected to use over a year.
Compare models suited to the same needs, then check their kWh/year, capacities and noise levels on the energy label.
ADEME notes that the size of household appliances and having more features than you need can increase energy consumption. A larger capacity is only useful if you fill it in line with your usual needs.
Work out the capacity you need before choosing a water or ice dispenser. Measure the space for the appliance and the route into your kitchen too.
An appliance that only just fits into a recess may not leave the clearances required by its manufacturer.
Check the appliance’s dimensions, ventilation requirements and climate class for the room where it will be installed.
Your old fridge should be taken to an appropriate collection or recycling point, and arranging its removal takes a little planning.
The French ministries responsible for ecological transition say that electrical appliances can be returned to a retailer or taken to a collection point or recycling centre. Ask the seller how take-back arrangements apply to your order.
Bosch has published a guide to reading the energy label on fridges and freezers.
Liebherr’s freestanding fridge range covers a variety of capacities and includes models with freezer compartments.
Beko offers built-in fridge-freezers, with different features depending on the model.
Haier’s French range includes fridge-freezers and larger formats, with a variety of capacities and energy ratings.
These appliances combine fridge and freezer storage. Their capacities and installation options vary, so start by choosing the format that suits your household. Then check the energy label for the exact model before comparing its annual energy consumption.
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Consider this if you’re looking for a 333 L fridge-freezer with No Frost. To compare its energy use, check the kWh/year and the capacity of each compartment on the energy label for this model.
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Consider this if the three-door layout and 360 L capacity suit the way you store food. Check you have enough space, then compare its stated kWh/year with models of a similar capacity.
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The 444 L capacity is worth considering if you’ll make use of all that space. Measure the area for the appliance and compare its annual energy consumption with other large models that suit your needs.
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This built-in model is worth considering if your kitchen requires this type of installation. Check the housing dimensions and door-fixing system, along with the model’s kWh/year, before assessing its energy use.
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Consider this if you’re looking for a modest-capacity fridge-freezer with a 4-star freezer compartment. Its 174 L capacity and Low Frost system don’t tell you how much energy it uses, so compare the kWh/year shown on the energy label.
Check the model reference, energy rating, annual energy consumption in kWh, compartment capacities and stated noise level. The DGCCRF says the energy label applies to new fridges sold in France, including online, but not to second-hand products. Scan the QR code to view the product information registered in EPREL.
No. Compare the kWh/year of appliances with capacities and configurations that meet the same needs too. ADEME says that size and having more features than you need can affect energy consumption. The rating alone won’t tell you whether you’ll make use of extra capacity.
Check the appliance’s dimensions, the route to its intended position, the manufacturer’s required ventilation clearances and the climate class suitable for the room. For a built-in model, also check the housing dimensions and that the door system is compatible.
Before placing your order, ask the seller how to arrange collection of your old fridge when the new one is delivered. The French ministries responsible for ecological transition also say that electrical appliances can be returned to a retailer or taken to a collection point or recycling centre.