If your fridge isn’t cooling properly, first ask for a diagnosis and quote to find out whether a repair can meet your needs within an acceptable timeframe. If you decide to replace it, start by measuring your kitchen space and working out how much room you need for fresh and frozen food. Then compare the annual energy consumption and noise levels of suitable models.
If your appliance isn’t cooling properly, a diagnosis and quote can help you choose between repair and replacement, while taking the time needed for the work into account. ADEME outlines both options for refrigeration appliances.
A built-in housing unit, a cabinet door or a fridge door that has to open in a tight space means you need to check the exact model, not just its capacity.
Your shopping habits determine how much space you need in each compartment. UFC-Que Choisir’s buying guide distinguishes between top-freezer, single-door and fridge-freezer formats to help you choose.
First, find out whether a repair is possible within a timeframe that works for you. If you need to replace the appliance, check the installation requirements and usable capacity before comparing similar models by their energy labels.
| Priority | What to check | Consumers affected |
|---|---|---|
| Repair or replace | Ask for a diagnosis, quote and repair timeframe; check whether the appliance is still under warranty. | If my fridge is already not cooling properly, I want to know quickly whether a practical repair will meet my needs; around 36% of consumers prioritise this decision. |
| Size and installation | Measure the space, access route and door clearance; for a built-in model, check the housing unit and fittings against the model’s instructions. | In a fitted or narrow kitchen, I can only choose an appliance that fits the space available. This is the main consideration for around 29% of consumers. |
| Fresh and frozen food | Compare the usable capacity of each compartment with your shopping habits, rather than focusing on total capacity alone. | If I regularly store frozen food, I need enough room for it without sacrificing too much space for fresh food; around 21% of consumers prioritise this balance. |
| Energy use and noise | For similarly sized models, compare kWh/year, dB and the noise class on the energy label or EPREL product fiche. | If my kitchen is close to the living room, everyday noise matters as much as the appliance’s energy use; around 14% of consumers prioritise these factors. |
Two appliances of a similar height may need different housing units or cabinet-door fittings. Bosch, Electrolux and Whirlpool model specifications show why external dimensions alone aren’t enough.
Measure all three dimensions of the housing unit, check the fitting system and door opening direction, then compare them with the installation instructions for the model you’re considering.
If the appliance doesn’t fit, you may need to adapt the cabinet or pay for additional installation work.
The rating letter doesn’t tell you whether the compartments are the right size or whether the noise level will suit your kitchen. The European Commission says the EPREL product fiche also provides annual energy consumption, capacity, dimensions and noise levels.
Compare kWh/year and the other information on the energy label for appliances with a size and capacity that suit your household.
Poor cooling alone doesn’t tell you whether the appliance needs replacing. The Ministry of the Economy explains that the Repair Bonus is subject to conditions, including that the appliance is no longer covered by a warranty and that the work is carried out by an approved repairer.
Before comparing repair with replacement, ask what the fault is, whether the scheme may apply and how long the repair will take.
A large advertised capacity doesn’t guarantee enough freezer space: the balance between fresh and frozen food may not suit the way you shop.
Check the usable capacity of each compartment and make sure the appliance will fit in your kitchen.
Bosch offers freestanding and built-in fridge-freezers, among other options.
The range includes built-in fridge-freezers in a variety of configurations.
Whirlpool offers freestanding and built-in models, with features that vary by model.
Haier offers freestanding fridge-freezers, among other options.
These models include built-in and freestanding fridge-freezers that could replace a faulty appliance. The format alone doesn’t confirm that a model will suit your needs: check the installation dimensions and the space you need in each compartment before choosing.
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Worth considering if you’re replacing an integrated fridge-freezer and want to keep two separate storage compartments.
The model name indicates No Frost and an energy rating of C. Before ordering, check the instructions for the required housing unit dimensions, fittings and ventilation.
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Consider this if you have a separate space for the appliance and want a fridge with a bottom freezer.
The model name indicates an energy rating of E. Check the route into your kitchen, installation clearances and the model’s noise level.
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Worth considering as a replacement for an integrated fridge-freezer, provided the housing unit and fittings are compatible.
The model name indicates TwinTech No Frost and an energy rating of E. Check the usable capacity of each compartment in the product details, along with the annual energy consumption and installation instructions.
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Worth considering if width is a key factor, but remember to measure the available height and depth too.
The model name indicates a width of 54 cm, 153 L for the fridge, 74 L for the freezer, a reversible door, Low Frost and an energy rating of E. Low Frost doesn’t mean you’ll never need to defrost it manually.
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Worth considering if you need plenty of total capacity for fresh and frozen food.
The model name indicates an energy rating of E and frost-free operation. Check the usable capacity of each compartment, the overall dimensions and the noise level before deciding whether it’s right for your kitchen.
Yes, if the appliance and fault meet the scheme’s conditions. The Ministry of the Economy says, among other things, that the appliance must no longer be covered by a warranty and the repair must be carried out by an approved repairer. Ask them to confirm whether you’re eligible when you request a quote.
Measure the width, height and depth of the space, as well as the route into your kitchen and the clearance needed to open the door. For a built-in model, also check the housing unit dimensions and cabinet-door fitting type, then consult the ventilation instructions for the exact model.
No. Also compare energy consumption in kWh/year, usable capacity and noise levels across models that are the right size for your space. The European Commission says you can scan the QR code on the energy label to access the product’s EPREL fiche, which includes these details.
Arrange for it to be collected through a service for refrigeration appliances rather than putting it out with your ordinary rubbish. ADEME outlines options for repairing, reusing and disposing of these appliances. Ask the retailer or your local council what services are available near you.