First, choose a fridge that fits in your kitchen, with doors that open properly and ventilation that meets the model’s instructions. Then compare the usable capacity you need between shopping trips with the space you need for frozen food. A fridge-freezer has two separate compartments, while a compact model is best suited to more limited storage needs. With a multi-door model, pay particular attention to how much space it takes up when the doors are open.
If the appliance needs to fit into an alcove or pass through a narrow doorway, also measure the space needed to open the doors and allow for ventilation. Installation instructions from Electrolux France and Bosch Electroménager France vary by model.
If your shopping needs to last several days, compare the fridge’s usable capacity with the number of people in your household and the space taken up by fresh food. Que Choisir identifies capacity as a factor to match to your household’s habits.
If you often store frozen food or prepared meals, check the freezer capacity separately from the fridge capacity. Que Choisir distinguishes this need from using a small freezer compartment.
First rule out sizes that won’t fit the space, then compare compartment capacities to suit your shopping and freezing habits. For appliances that meet these needs, noise and energy consumption can help you choose between models.
| Criteria | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Space and ventilation | Measure the space, access routes and door clearance. For a built-in installation, check the niche and ventilation requirements against the model’s instructions. | If my kitchen has little spare space, I want to be able to install and open the appliance without blocking the way; around 31% of consumers would prioritise this fit. |
| Fresh food capacity | Compare the fridge’s usable capacity in litres with the number of people in your household and the time between shopping trips. Don’t rely on external dimensions alone. | When I do a big shop, I need enough room for fresh food until my next trip; this capacity would come first for around 31% of consumers. |
| Freezer capacity | Check whether there is a separate freezer and its usable capacity, rather than looking only at the appliance’s total capacity. | I regularly store frozen food or prepared meals and don’t want to rely on a small freezer compartment; around 25% of consumers would make freezing capacity their priority. |
| Energy consumption and noise | Compare the stated annual energy consumption and noise level of appliances with similar capacities and installation types. | In an open-plan kitchen, I pay attention to noise and energy consumption once my storage needs are met; this day-to-day comfort would come first for around 13% of consumers. |
An appliance may fit between two units but block the way when its doors are open. Its depth and the delivery route matter too.
Measure the space and access routes, then check the model’s installation diagram with the doors open.
Instructions from Bosch Electroménager France and Electrolux France vary depending on the appliance and installation type.
Follow the clearances and ventilation requirements in the instructions for your chosen fridge, especially if it’s a built-in model.
Two appliances with similar total capacities may allocate space differently between fresh and frozen food. A small freezer compartment may not be suitable for regular frozen food storage.
Compare the usable capacity of each compartment separately with the amount you want to store.
According to Bosch Electroménager France, some models with a dispenser need a mains water connection, while others use a tank.
Before choosing a model, check how it’s supplied with water and whether it can be connected in your kitchen.
If a water connection needs to be installed, you may need a professional to do the work.
These models let you compare different arrangements of fridge and freezer space, including a built-in appliance. Before choosing a size, check the model’s dimensions and installation instructions against your kitchen.
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Worth considering if your shopping needs call for a total capacity of 495 L. Check how the capacity is divided between compartments, the door configuration and the clearance they need to open. If you’re interested in the dispenser, also check its connection requirements.
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A fridge-freezer to consider if you want to keep fresh and frozen food in separate compartments. Compare the usable capacity of each and check the installation clearances in the model’s instructions.
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Worth considering if you need a built-in fridge-freezer. The model name indicates TwinTech No Frost. Before buying, check the required niche dimensions, door system and ventilation for this appliance.
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This fridge-freezer is worth comparing if you want to divide your shopping between fresh and frozen food: its product listing states a 182 L fridge capacity and a 71 L freezer capacity. It also lists No Frost and a noise level of 39 dB. Check the full dimensions and clearances before deciding where to put it.
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Worth comparing if width is a key consideration: the product listing states a width of 54 cm, with a 153 L fridge and a 74 L freezer. It also lists a reversible door and Low Frost. Check the height, clearances and model-specific defrosting instructions.
Usable capacity depends on the number of people in your household and how often you shop. Que Choisir gives 100 to 150 L as a general guide for one person. Use this as a starting point and adjust it to suit your shopping habits, comparing fridge and freezer capacities separately.
No. The niche must also match the height, depth, door system and ventilation requirements of the model. Electrolux France publishes different built-in dimensions for its models, so check the diagram for the one you’re considering.
Compare the energy consumption and noise information for appliances with capacities and installation types that suit your needs. ADEME describes the energy label as a tool for comparing large household appliances; it doesn’t replace checking usable capacity and installation requirements.
First, follow the set-up instructions for the model you’ve bought. In its installation instructions, Electrolux France recommends waiting at least four hours before plugging the appliance in, allowing air to circulate and making sure it’s level. Your appliance’s manual will explain exactly what to do.