To keep the energy use of an appliance that runs all the time under control, first choose the capacity you need for fresh and frozen food. Then compare the annual energy consumption of similar models with similar capacities. A fridge on its own may be suitable if you already have a freezer elsewhere; a fridge freezer combines both uses, while a separate freezer adds another appliance to power and is best suited to regular storage needs.
The right format depends as much on the space you have as on how much food you need to keep chilled or frozen.
If your fridge or freezer runs continuously, look at the annual energy consumption of models that can handle your usual storage needs. ADEME points out that size and extra features can affect energy use, so replacing an appliance doesn’t automatically mean you should choose a larger one.
Is the freezer space in a fridge freezer enough for your usual shopping? Compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately before considering an additional freezer, which will also run continuously.
When space is limited, check the dimensions and installation type before comparing appliances by their energy label. The capacity of each compartment and the noise level matter too, especially if the fridge is near a living area.
First decide whether you need refrigeration, freezing or both. The energy label can then help you compare appliances that offer a similar level of service.
Consider this if: you mainly store fresh food and already have a freezer, or rarely buy frozen food.
Bear in mind: the fridge won’t have an integrated freezer compartment.
Consider this if: you regularly store fresh and frozen food in one appliance.
Check: the total capacity doesn’t tell you how much space is available in each of the two compartments.
Consider this if: your regular frozen food storage needs exceed the freezer capacity of a fridge freezer.
Bear in mind: alongside a fridge, it adds another appliance that runs continuously.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Energy use | Check the annual energy consumption in kWh and the A to G rating on the label. Compare appliances of the same type and with similar capacities; the figure shown won’t predict your household’s exact energy use. | I want to keep an eye on the energy use of an appliance that will stay plugged in all the time, without assuming that a better letter rating is enough on its own. |
| Format and capacity | Check the usable capacity in litres for fresh and frozen food. Before adding another compartment or appliance, see whether your household already has freezer capacity. | The space I actually use for frozen food should guide my choice between a fridge, fridge freezer and separate freezer. |
| Features | Look for features you’ll use, such as ice making or defrosting functions. ADEME warns that extra features can increase energy use; a convenience feature alone doesn’t prove that a model uses less energy. | If manual defrosting is a problem for me, I can look at models with features designed to help, then check the model’s annual energy consumption. |
| Installation and noise | Check the model’s dimensions, installation type, installation requirements and climate class. The European Commission says the energy label also shows noise emissions and their class. | For a small kitchen or a spot near a living area, I need an appliance that fits the space and has a noise level I’m comfortable with. |
The rating doesn’t tell you how many litres are available for each use. A small fridge and a large fridge freezer don’t meet the same storage needs.
Compare annual energy consumption in kWh between models of the same format and with similar usable capacities, then check how the space is divided between fresh and frozen food.
Fridges and freezers run continuously. ADEME highlights that a larger appliance or one with extra features can use more energy.
Estimate how much fresh and frozen food you usually store separately, and choose extra features only if they’ll be useful to you.
The figures published by ADEME describe categories of appliances, while actual energy use depends on factors including size and how the appliance is used.
To compare models, check their own energy labels and compare capacities suited to the same needs.
An appliance that doesn’t fit your kitchen or meet its installation requirements can’t be chosen on the basis of its displayed energy use alone.
Before ordering, check the space measurements, ventilation requirements and climate class of the exact model, particularly if it’s built in.
These examples relate to specific models or ranges. A brand’s inclusion in a selection doesn’t tell you how much energy all its appliances use.
GuideTopten.fr features Liebherr fridges in its French selection, including freestanding models.
The KIN86SDD0 integrated fridge freezer is an example of a product specification worth checking compartment by compartment.
The BCSA285K4SN is an integrated fridge freezer whose product details list energy consumption and usable capacities separately.
GuideTopten.fr features Miele integrated fridges in its French selection.
GuideTopten.fr features the FAB5xxx6 as a small-capacity freestanding fridge.
These models combine refrigeration and freezing in one appliance. To choose between them, start with the capacity you need, then check each model’s product details for its annual energy consumption and installation requirements.
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This fridge freezer provides space for both fresh and frozen food. Before deciding that its total capacity of 333 L is right for you, check how the capacity is divided between the compartments and how much clearance is needed for installation.
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This integrated design may suit a fitted kitchen with a compatible housing unit. The model is listed with a 252 L capacity and No Frost; check the housing unit’s dimensions and ventilation requirements, as well as the space available in each compartment.
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Its 360 L capacity is suited to storage needs of that size, with refrigeration and freezing in the same appliance. The product name includes Total No Frost; check that you have enough room and installation clearance before choosing this format.
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This 344 L fridge freezer provides space for fresh and frozen food in one appliance. Compare its capacity with your usual storage needs, then check how the space is divided and how much room the appliance needs around it.
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This 467 L model is suited to substantial fresh and frozen food storage needs. The product name includes Total No Frost; make sure you’ll use this capacity, and check the available width and ventilation clearance.
Compare the A to G rating, annual energy consumption in kWh, compartment capacities and noise level. According to the European Commission, these details appear on the labels of household fridges and freezers. For a useful comparison, start with appliances of the same format and with similar capacities.
No. It’s a useful guide, but you should also check the annual kWh figure and the model’s capacities. ADEME explains that an appliance’s actual energy use depends on factors including its size and how it’s used, so the letter rating alone can’t predict your household’s energy use.
Consider a separate freezer if you regularly store more frozen food than a fridge freezer suited to your needs can hold. Bear in mind that it adds another appliance that runs continuously. On the other hand, if you already have a freezer, GuideTopten.fr says that you may not need a fridge with a freezer compartment.
The climate class helps you check whether the ambient temperatures specified for the model are suitable for the room where you plan to install it. Check the details for the exact model, especially if the location may get particularly hot or cold, and also check its dimensions and installation requirements.