Start by working out how much space you need for fresh food, then decide how much room to set aside for frozen food. A fridge-freezer is a good choice if you freeze food regularly, while a separate freezer is usually worth considering only if you need to store more. Then compare the kWh per year for models with a similar size and capacity. ADEME points out that refrigeration appliances run continuously, and that choosing one that is larger than you need can increase energy use.
You’re replacing an appliance that runs all year round and want to compare its annual energy use with the capacity you actually need. ADEME recommends taking into account the size and number of refrigeration appliances you use.
You’re deciding between the freezer compartment in a fridge-freezer and a separate appliance. The right choice depends on how much space your frozen food takes up, not just the total capacity shown.
You’re looking for an appliance that suits a compact kitchen without compromising on the space you need for your usual shopping. Dimensions and noise levels matter too, particularly if the appliance is close to your living area.
First decide whether you need separate capacities for fresh and frozen food. Only compare annual energy use once you’ve settled on your needs and the type of appliance.
Consider this if: you store little or no frozen food.
Bear in mind: check whether it has a freezer compartment and how much it holds before relying on it for your regular shopping.
Consider this if: you store fresh food every day and also keep frozen food, but don’t need a large separate freezer.
Bear in mind: the total capacity doesn’t tell you how much space each compartment has.
Consider this if: your frozen food regularly exceeds the capacity of a fridge-freezer that otherwise suits your household.
Bear in mind: this option takes up space for two appliances, both of which run continuously and use energy, as ADEME points out.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy use | The kWh/year shown on the label, compared across appliances of a similar size and capacity. | If my fridge runs all the time, I want to avoid paying to power capacity I don’t use. Around 37% of consumers put this need first. |
| Fridge capacity | The litres available for fresh food, based on household size and how often you shop. | To fit in my usual shopping without running short of space, I prioritise the fridge compartment’s capacity. This is the main consideration for around 36% of consumers. |
| Freezer space | The freezer capacity in a fridge-freezer, followed by the space needed for a separate appliance. | If I keep a large amount of frozen food, I need to know whether a fridge-freezer can really hold it all. A separate freezer is the top priority for around 18% of consumers. |
| Size and noise | The full dimensions and stated noise level, especially if it will be near a living area. | In a small or open-plan kitchen, I want an appliance that fits without getting in the way of everyday life. Around 9% of consumers prioritise these considerations. |
The letter doesn’t tell you how much energy the model uses each year. ADEME also points out that a larger appliance or one with more capacity than you need can increase household energy use.
Compare the kWh/year figures for models that meet the same capacity and freezing needs, then check the capacity of each compartment.
A fridge-freezer may have enough capacity overall but too little room for frozen food, or more freezer space than you need.
Work out how much fresh and frozen food you usually store separately before choosing a type of appliance.
A chest freezer needs floor space. The model’s climate class must also be suitable for the temperature of the room where you plan to install it.
Measure the space, check the climate class and add together the stated annual energy use of both appliances.
The DGCCRF has found errors in the way energy labels are displayed. So any rating or capacity shown in a listing should match the exact model being offered.
Before choosing, check that the exact model number, kWh/year and stated capacities match the energy label and product information.
These models keep fresh and frozen food in one appliance. Compare their capacities with your needs, then check the annual energy use for the exact model before making your choice.
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Worth considering if you need to store both fresh and frozen food in a 360 L fridge-freezer.
The model name indicates an E rating and Total No Frost, Wi-Fi and My Zone features. Check the capacity of each compartment and the kWh/year on the label for this model.
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Worth considering if you need plenty of space for fresh and frozen food, once you’ve checked that you have room for it.
The model name states an E rating and Total No Frost. Check the capacity of each compartment and the kWh/year to see whether this model is right for you.
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Its total capacity may suit a household that needs plenty of storage, provided the balance between fresh and frozen food is right.
The product name states an E rating and 40 dB. Check the separate compartment capacities, dimensions and kWh/year for this model.
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Worth considering for a kitchen with limited width, if both compartments have enough room for your usual shopping.
The model name specifies 153 L of fridge space and 74 L of freezer space. It also states an E rating, Low Frost and a reversible door. Check the full dimensions and kWh/year.
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Worth considering if you want separate capacities for fresh and frozen food in a fridge-freezer.
The model name specifies 211 L of fridge space and 99 L of freezer space, an E rating and a reversible door. Check the installation dimensions and kWh/year before comparing its energy use.
Check the kWh per year, then the capacity for fresh and frozen food, the dimensions and the noise level. The DGCCRF says that a new fridge sold in France must display an energy label. Compare energy use between models with similar capacity to make sure you’re comparing like with like.
No. Compare their annual energy use and capacity too. ADEME points out that a larger appliance or one with more capacity than you need can increase energy use, so the ratings alone don’t tell you which model best suits your needs.
Choose a separate freezer if your usual stock of frozen food won’t fit in the freezer compartment of a fridge-freezer that suits your household. Check that you have enough space, that the freezer’s climate class is suitable and what both appliances use each year. UFC-Que Choisir points out that a chest freezer may need more floor space.
Keep a copy of the product listing, proof of purchase and any messages you’ve exchanged with the seller, then let them know what doesn’t match. According to the Ministry of the Economy, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new goods sold by a business to an individual in France.