An older fridge doesn’t automatically need replacing. First, check that it’s working properly, and arrange a diagnosis if you suspect a fault. If you’re considering a new purchase, compare the annual kWh consumption of models with the capacity you actually need, then work out the difference using your electricity tariff. A single-door fridge may suit you if you rarely need freezer space; a fridge-freezer makes sense if you regularly store frozen food.
If you’re concerned about your electricity bill, compare your current appliance’s consumption with that of a possible replacement before buying. If it’s also not working as it should, a diagnosis and quote can help you decide whether to repair or replace it.
A single-door fridge is worth considering if its fridge capacity is sufficient and you don’t need a separate freezer. Check the compartment included with the exact model rather than relying on the overall format.
A fridge-freezer could suit your needs, provided the capacity of each compartment matches your shopping habits. Compare kWh/year and noise levels too: extra capacity is only useful if you use it.
When to consider it: if you haven’t identified the cause of a problem, check the maintenance and have the appliance assessed before deciding to buy a new one.
Consideration: a repair won’t necessarily reduce electricity consumption. Compare the quote and expected future use with the cost of replacing the appliance.
When to consider it: if you rarely or never need to store frozen food in a separate freezer.
Consideration: check the type of compartment included. A small freezer compartment may not suit your freezing habits.
When to consider it: if you regularly use a freezer and want two compartments with enough room for your food.
Consideration: a large capacity or features you rarely use can increase consumption. Compare specific models, not just their format.
| Priority | What to check | Consider your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Consumption | Check the kWh/year on the new model’s energy label and compare appliances with a suitable capacity and format. To estimate the annual cost, multiply the kWh/year by the VAT-inclusive price per kWh on your tariff. | I want to know whether the difference in consumption justifies a purchase, without assuming that a better energy rating will be enough to lower my bill. |
| Capacity and freezing | Compare the capacity in litres of each compartment, the space available in your kitchen and how often you use frozen food. ADEME points out that a larger size and unnecessary features can increase your bill. | Do my shopping habits call for a separate freezer, or would a single-door fridge meet my needs without leaving unused space? |
| Condition of the appliance | Check for ice build-up, inspect the door seal and make sure there’s adequate ventilation. Arrange a diagnosis if needed. Check the warranty and get a repair quote before comparing it with the cost of replacement. | Before replacing an appliance that isn’t working properly, I want to know whether the problem can be fixed and what the repair will actually cost. |
| Noise and operating conditions | The European energy label shows noise levels and capacity, among other details. If the room is warm or the doors are opened frequently, look for tests that also assess how well the temperature is maintained in these conditions. | In a warm or open-plan kitchen, I don’t want to focus solely on kWh/year at the expense of other important factors for my needs. |
According to ADEME, some appliances brought in for after-sales service in France aren’t faulty and don’t need any parts. This doesn’t tell you whether your fridge can be repaired, but it does show why it’s worth getting a diagnosis before buying a new one.
First, carry out any maintenance checks that are safe to do yourself. If the problem persists, arrange a diagnosis and get a quote.
The European energy label also shows kWh/year and capacity. The energy rating alone isn’t enough to estimate the electricity costs of an appliance that suits your household.
Work out how much capacity you need, then compare the annual consumption of models that meet that need.
Unused capacity takes up space. ADEME points out that a larger size and certain features can increase your electricity bill.
Think about your shopping and frozen food storage habits before choosing between a single-door fridge and a fridge-freezer, then check the capacity of each compartment.
Your estimated costs depend on the price per kWh on your tariff. A projection over several years will also depend on changes to the tariff and how you use the appliance.
Use the VAT-inclusive price shown on your contract or bill, and compare the kWh/year figures for both appliances.
Que Choisir includes Bosch, Beko and LG models in its fridge-freezer comparison dated 27 May 2026. Their inclusion among the appliances tested doesn’t amount to a ranking of the brands.
A Bosch model features among the fridge-freezers tested by Que Choisir.
Que Choisir includes a Beko model in its list of tested fridge-freezers.
An LG model also features in Que Choisir’s fridge-freezer comparison.
These models include fridge-freezers in a range of capacities and a built-in single-door fridge. Match the format to your freezer needs and check the energy details for the exact model before deciding whether to replace your appliance.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you need a freezer and a capacity of 360 L. The model name indicates Total No Frost, E rating, Wi-Fi and My Zone. Before comparing its running costs with those of your current appliance, check whether these features are useful to you, along with the dimensions and kWh/year on the energy label.
Image unavailable
This fridge-freezer is worth considering if both compartments suit the way you store food. Its name indicates a 70/30 split, a width of 54 cm and a height of 176 cm. Check the space available, the freezer’s defrosting requirements and the kWh/year on the energy label.
Image unavailable
With a stated capacity of 444 L, check that you’ll use the space and that the appliance will fit in your kitchen. The model name mentions frost-free operation, an E rating and 40 dB. Also compare the kWh/year for the exact model with those of your current appliance.
Image unavailable
This format suits you if you need fridge space but not a separate freezer, provided you have a compatible cabinet space. The capacity shown in the title differs from the product description, so confirm the exact capacity, dimensions and kWh/year before comparing it with your current appliance.
Image unavailable
According to its name, this model combines a 153 L fridge and a 74 L freezer in a width of 54 cm. Before estimating its running costs, check that these capacities suit your shopping habits, find out how to defrost it and check the kWh/year on the energy label.
Subtract the new appliance’s kWh/year from the old one’s, then multiply the difference by the VAT-inclusive price per kWh on your tariff. Make sure the consumption figures are based on a like-for-like comparison. The result is still an estimate, as usage and tariffs can change.
No. The European energy label also shows annual consumption, capacity and noise levels. First choose a type and capacity that suit your needs, then compare the kWh/year of the models you’re considering.
A fridge-freezer suits you if you regularly need to store frozen food in a separate freezer compartment. If you rarely freeze food, consider whether a single-door fridge offers the capacity and compartments you need. Then check the kWh/year for the exact models.
Check the warranty, look for ice build-up if it doesn’t defrost automatically, inspect the door seal and make sure there’s adequate ventilation around the appliance. If the problem persists, get a diagnosis and quote before comparing repair with replacement.
A fridge or freezer may qualify for the scheme if both the repair and the appliance meet its conditions. According to ecosystem, the appliance must, among other things, belong to a household, have been bought in France and no longer be covered by a warranty or insurance. Check that the repair is eligible with a certified repairer before including the bonus in your comparison.