A household limited by its available space
If your kitchen is narrow, measure the available depth and height too, then check how the door opens. Choose an integrated appliance based on the dimensions of its housing niche, not just its width.
Who is it for?
A household that regularly freezes food
Check the capacity in litres for fresh food and frozen food separately. The Bosch and Electrolux specifications cited here give freezer capacities ranging from 62 to 103 L, depending on the model. The split between compartments matters just as much as the total capacity when you’re choosing an appliance to suit your shopping habits.
A household thinking about long-term use
Compare the annual energy consumption, noise level and expected maintenance for the specific model. If access to spare parts matters to you, check the manufacturer’s terms too: Bosch says its fridge parts are generally available for 15 years, but this doesn’t confirm that every part is available for every model.
Which features should you prioritise?
Freestanding fridge freezer
Consider this: if the appliance fits in the intended space and its door can open with the necessary clearance.
Bear in mind: two 600 mm-wide Bosch models have different heights and depths. The capacity you want doesn’t guarantee the appliance will fit.
Integrated fridge freezer
Consider this: if your kitchen unit has a compatible housing niche, fixing system and cabinet door.
Bear in mind: the Electrolux ENT6ME19S4 needs a housing niche measuring 1 894 × 560 × 550 mm. Its 62 L freezer capacity must also suit your household’s needs.
Separate fridge and freezer
Consider this: if you have two separate spaces, so you can choose the fridge and freezer sizes independently.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to check the installation requirements, door openings and clearance for both appliances.
| Feature | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and door opening | Measure the finished space in width, depth and height; check the manual for door clearance and ventilation requirements. | If the appliance needs to fit between kitchen units, I want to be able to open the door without obstruction. Around 40% of consumers would prioritise the appliance’s footprint and door opening. |
| Capacity and storage | Compare the capacity in litres of each compartment, then check the drawer sizes and access to the shelves. | If I freeze some of my shopping, the total capacity doesn’t tell me how much room will be left for fresh food. For around 30% of consumers, getting the balance between the two compartments right would be the main priority. |
| Energy consumption and noise | Check the kWh/year and dB(A) ratings alongside the energy rating; compare appliances with similar capacities and configurations. | In an open-plan kitchen, noise matters to me just as much as everyday energy consumption. Around 20% of consumers would put these features first. |
| Defrosting and spare parts | Check the cooling technology in each compartment and the availability terms for spare parts for the exact model. | If I want to reduce defrosting and plan ahead for maintenance, I’ll check the stated technology and spare parts information before buying. Around 10% of consumers would prioritise this. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Choosing based on width alone
According to Bosch’s specifications, the KGN362LAF and KGE398IBP are both 600 mm wide, but they measure 665 and 650 mm deep respectively, and 1 860 and 2 010 mm high. The space needed to open the door may affect your choice too.
Measure the space and the delivery route, then check the model’s manual for clearance, ventilation and door-swing requirements.
-
Comparing only the letter on the energy label
The energy rating alone doesn’t tell you the annual energy consumption or how much space is available for fresh and frozen food. The European Commission says the label also shows capacity and noise levels.
Check the kWh/year, the capacity of each compartment in litres and the dB(A) rating, comparing appliances of similar sizes and capacities.
-
Assuming ‘No Frost’ applies to both compartments
Bosch describes the KGN362LAF as Total NoFrost, while Beko specifies ‘Semi No Frost (Frz only)’ for the BCHA306E4SN. These descriptions don’t mean the same thing.
Check how the fridge and freezer work separately in the specifications for the model you’re considering.
-
Waiting until delivery to arrange removal of your old appliance
Collection needs to be arranged with the retailer, and the practical details may depend on your order and delivery.
Ask how to arrange collection before completing your purchase, and check the preparation instructions and access requirements for your home.
Brands to consider by model
Bosch
Two 600 mm-wide freestanding fridge freezers let you compare different capacity splits and dimensions.
- Bosch’s specifications for the KGN362LAF and KGE398IBP give their dimensions, capacities, energy ratings, noise levels and cooling technology.
- Their depths and heights differ, so measure your space before choosing either model.
- Bosch says fridge parts are generally available for 15 years; check the terms that apply to your chosen E-Nr.
Electrolux
The ENT6ME19S4 is an integrated fridge freezer worth considering if it’s compatible with your kitchen unit and housing niche.
- Its specifications state that it needs a housing niche measuring 1 894 × 560 × 550 mm, and has a fridge capacity of 207 L, a freezer capacity of 62 L and an energy consumption of 215 kWh/year.
- These specifications apply to the ENT6ME19S4. Check the fixing system and door opening too before choosing an integrated model.
Beko
The BCHA306E4SN may be worth considering if you’re looking for an integrated model and the fixing system, door direction and interior layout are important to you.
- Beko states that this model has a reversible door and a 19 L 0–3 °C compartment.
- The ‘Semi No Frost (Frz only)’ description applies to the freezer. Check the cooling technology in each compartment and the model’s housing niche dimensions.
Joybuy products
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
What capacity should I choose for a household of three?
Choose the balance between fridge and freezer capacity based on your shopping habits and how much space your frozen food takes up, rather than looking at the total capacity on its own. The European Commission says the label shows the capacity of each compartment. Then check whether the drawers and shelves can hold the food you usually store.
What should I look for on the energy label?
Look at the energy rating, annual consumption in kWh, compartment capacities and noise level together. These details appear on the European label described by the European Commission. To choose between two appliances, compare models with similar capacities and configurations.
Will a 60 cm-wide appliance definitely fit in a narrow kitchen?
No. You’ll also need to check the depth, height and space needed to open the door. Bosch’s specifications give the KGE398IBP and KGN362LAF depths of 650 and 665 mm respectively; both are 600 mm wide. Check the manual for your chosen model for clearance and door-swing requirements.
How should I check spare parts before buying?
Check the availability terms for the exact model and the parts you’re interested in. Bosch says its fridge parts are generally available for 15 years, but this doesn’t guarantee that a specific part will be available for every model.