If your fridge-freezer is still working, don’t replace it just because you think it uses a lot of energy. Check its energy consumption and whether it can be kept or repaired. If replacement is the right choice, compare the kWh/year of models that suit your storage needs, installation type and available space. ADEME points out that a larger or over-equipped appliance can use more energy, even when it’s brand new.
If you’re thinking of replacing it because of its energy consumption, first check how much energy it uses and assess its condition. Repairing it or continuing to use it may make more sense than replacing it straight away.
Compare kWh/year, as well as the capacity in litres of each compartment. Before choosing a model, check that its installation type, dimensions and noise level are right for your kitchen.
If you’re choosing between a fridge-freezer and a fridge with a separate freezer, add together the energy consumption of both appliances and compare models with volumes that meet the same needs. If you rarely use a second appliance, first reconsider how much capacity you really need.
Start with the appliance you own, then compare alternatives that can provide the same amount of storage. A difference in energy rating alone isn’t enough to show whether replacing it is worthwhile.
| Priority | What to check | How this meets my needs |
|---|---|---|
| Energy consumption | Check the kWh/year figure for your old appliance, if available, then compare it with the figure on the label of the model you’re considering. ADEME presents the A to G rating as a useful guide; annual energy consumption lets you compare specific models. | My appliance runs continuously: I want to know how much energy I could save before deciding whether it’s worth replacing. |
| Capacity | Compare the capacity in litres of the fridge and freezer separately, as well as any features you’ll use. ADEME points out that a larger size and too many features can increase energy consumption. | I don’t store many frozen foods, so a large freezer may not suit my habits, even in an appliance with a better energy rating. |
| Repair | If there’s a fault, keep your proof of purchase and contact the seller if the statutory conformity guarantee may apply. Otherwise, ask for a diagnosis or quote before ruling out a repair. | If the fault can be repaired, I’d like to know that before arranging to have a new appliance installed. |
| Configuration | If you’re considering two separate appliances, add together their kWh/year and capacities before comparing them with a fridge-freezer of suitable capacity. Also check how much space each one needs. | I need more freezer space, so I want to compare two separate appliances with a fridge-freezer that offer similar storage, without assuming which will use less energy. |
| Installation | Measure the housing or space, access routes and door-opening direction. Check whether a model is integrated or freestanding, and look up the exact model’s dimensions. | My appliance needs to fit into a housing, so energy consumption isn’t the only factor if the dimensions mean it won’t fit. |
| Ease of use | If noise matters, compare the stated noise levels of the models you’re considering. Check maintenance features and alarms separately to see which ones suit your needs. | I’m concerned about noise in an open-plan kitchen. If defrosting is a nuisance, I’ll check exactly which compartments have a No Frost function. |
Two models with the same rating may have different capacities and different annual energy consumption figures. The rating also doesn’t tell you whether an appliance will fit your installation.
Compare the kWh/year, the capacity of each compartment and the installation type of the specific model. The European EPREL database lets you check details including energy consumption, capacity and dimensions.
ADEME gives 315 kWh/year for an average fridge-freezer and 100 kWh/year for highly efficient new Class A appliances. These figures don’t describe your old appliance, and the new appliance may not have the same capacity.
Compare the energy consumption of your appliance with that of the model you’re considering. If your old appliance’s figure is only an estimate, make that clear when assessing the difference.
A fault alone doesn’t mean an appliance needs replacing. ADEME recommends considering repair before replacement.
Ask the seller whether the fault is covered by the statutory conformity guarantee. If it isn’t, request a diagnosis and check the terms of any repair by a QualiRépar-certified repairer.
An integrated fridge-freezer must fit its housing, while a freestanding model also needs a suitable space and access routes.
Measure the height, width and depth, and check access before ordering. Then check the door-opening direction and the installation instructions for your chosen model.
These features apply to the models mentioned, not every appliance made by each brand.
Bosch offers a range of freestanding and integrated fridge-freezers.
Whirlpool’s range includes fridge-freezers in different sizes and configurations.
Electrolux offers a range of integrated fridge-freezers designed for fitted kitchens.
These models show a range of capacities and installation types to consider when replacing a fridge-freezer. To decide, compare each one with your current appliance, the space you have available and the capacity you use.
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Worth considering if you’re replacing an integrated fridge-freezer and need a capacity of 252 L. The model name indicates a Class C rating and a No Frost function. Check the capacity of each compartment, the kWh/year and the housing dimensions on the label and in the documentation for the exact model.
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This style is worth comparing if you’ll make good use of its 360 L capacity and want three doors. The model name indicates Total No Frost, a Class E rating and Wi-Fi. Before deciding whether these features are right for you, compare the kWh/year and the capacity of each compartment with your needs.
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Its four doors and 467 L capacity are suited to households that need plenty of storage, though it’s worth checking this against your habits. The model name indicates Total No Frost and a Class E rating. Check the kWh/year, how the capacity is divided between compartments and the space needed to open the doors.
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Another 467 L option to consider if this capacity suits your storage needs. The model name indicates Total No Frost and a Class E rating. Compare how its capacity is divided between the fridge and freezer, its kWh/year and its dimensions with those of the other styles you’re considering.
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Worth comparing if you’re looking for a 282 L fridge-freezer with a bottom freezer. The model name indicates a Class E rating. Check the kWh/year, the capacity of each compartment and the dimensions of the KGN33NLEB. If noise matters where you plan to put it, check its noise level too.
First compare the kWh/year figures for the specific models, then their A to G ratings and the capacity of the fridge and freezer. The European Commission lists these details, along with dimensions, in the EPREL database. Make sure the appliances you compare meet the same storage and installation needs.
Subtract the kWh/year figure for the new model from that of your current appliance, if you have a usable figure for it. The result is an estimate based on the appliances and how they’re used. ADEME’s published average figures don’t guarantee savings for your household.
No. Have the fault assessed before you decide. In France, according to Légifrance, sellers are responsible under the statutory conformity guarantee for defects that appear within two years of the goods being delivered. Depending on the conditions set out in the Consumer Code, bringing the goods into conformity may involve a repair or replacement. Outside this framework, a diagnosis and quote can help you decide.
No, you can’t draw that conclusion without comparing suitable models. Add together the kWh/year figures for the separate fridge and freezer, then compare their capacities with those of a fridge-freezer that meets the same needs. ADEME’s average figures don’t necessarily relate to appliances with equivalent capacities.
Assess separately how much space you use for fresh and frozen food, then compare those needs with the capacity listed for each compartment. Next, check the kWh/year and dimensions of the model you’re considering. Two appliances with similar total capacity may divide that space in ways that don’t suit you.