For an open-plan kitchen, start by comparing fridges using the noise level and noise class shown on their EU labels. Then check the capacity, annual energy consumption and whether each appliance can be installed correctly. A decibel figure alone won’t tell you how disruptive a fridge will feel in your living room. Built-in models, in particular, need a suitable housing unit and ventilation in line with the installation instructions.
If you can hear the fridge from the sofa, dining table or home-working area, its noise may matter as much as its capacity. Que Choisir points out that the type of sound and vibrations can also affect how bothersome it feels.
If you already have a housing unit or kitchen cabinets in place, check the measurements, fixings, ventilation and door clearance before choosing a built-in model.
A freestanding appliance lets you consider the capacity you need alongside the space available. You’ll still need to compare the stated noise level and annual energy consumption of the models you’re considering.
First work out how much capacity you need and where the fridge will go. Then compare noise levels and energy consumption across appliances that suit your kitchen. Whether you choose a built-in or freestanding model, factor in the ventilation requirements in its instructions.
| Feature | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise disturbance | Compare the dB(A) re 1 pW emissions and noise class of similar appliances on their EU labels. These figures don’t describe every vibration or the type of sound. | If I can hear the fridge from the sofa, I want to limit sounds that disturb the living room; around 42% of consumers would make low noise their priority. |
| Installation | Measure the space and door clearance, then check the required clearances and ventilation against the model’s instructions. | In a kitchen that’s already fitted, I need to be able to install the appliance and open its doors without difficulty; around 33% of consumers would prioritise whether it fits the available space. |
| Storage and energy consumption | Check the capacity of the compartments you need, along with the exact model’s annual energy consumption in kWh and energy rating. | I want enough room for my shopping and, if needed, frozen food, without overlooking the electricity it uses; around 25% of consumers would put this balance first. |
Que Choisir points out that two sounds at the same level can feel different depending on their frequency, type and vibrations.
Use the EU label to shortlist comparable models, then check any independent reviews available for the exact model and follow its installation instructions.
The term “built-in” doesn’t guarantee that the dimensions, fixings and airflow will suit your kitchen cabinets.
Measure the housing unit and access route, and check the door clearance against the installation diagram for your chosen model.
You may need to alter a cabinet or rearrange delivery, making installation more complicated.
A stated noise level tells you nothing about the available capacity or how much room there is for frozen food.
Work out your storage needs before comparing the noise levels, dimensions and annual energy consumption of suitable models.
When replacing a fridge, you’ll also need to decide how to dispose of the old one.
The French Ministry for Ecological Transition lists collection points, recycling centres, returning the appliance to a retailer and social and solidarity economy organisations as possible options.
These examples are specific built-in models; their features don’t apply to every appliance from each brand.
The WHC20T573P is a built-in fridge-freezer to consider if your kitchen has a compatible housing unit.
The LRB3AE12S is a built-in fridge to consider if you don’t need an integrated freezer compartment.
The KIL22NSE0 is an integrated fridge measuring 87.4 cm high, with a freezer compartment, to consider for a small housing unit.
These two freestanding fridge-freezers are worth comparing based on the space available and the storage you need in an open-plan kitchen. Their stated noise levels are a starting point: check the EU label for the exact model to compare standardised figures and noise classes.
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Worth considering if you need 444 L of storage in an open-plan kitchen and have room for a freestanding appliance.
The product title states that it is frost-free, has energy rating E and operates at 40 dB. Check the noise class on the EU label, as well as the dimensions and clearances in the instructions.
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Worth considering if 174 L is enough for your storage needs and the stated height of 150 cm suits the available space.
The product title lists Low Frost, a 4-star freezer, a reversible door, energy rating E and a stated noise level of 39 dB. Check the full dimensions, noise class and annual energy consumption for the exact model.
Not necessarily. The frequency and type of sound, as well as vibrations, affect how bothersome it feels. Que Choisir has highlighted this limitation of decibel figures. Also compare the information available for the specific models you’re considering.
Check the dimensions of the housing unit and appliance, the type of fixing, door clearance and ventilation requirements in the model’s instructions. Don’t assume the clearances specified for another fridge will be suitable.
Yes, following the installation instructions for your model. Electrolux recommends keeping the appliance away from heating, cooking appliances and strong sunlight, while allowing air to circulate around it. Check the recommended clearances in your instructions.
Arrange to dispose of it through an appropriate collection scheme rather than putting it out with ordinary rubbish. In France, the Ministry for Ecological Transition lists collection points, recycling centres, returning it to a retailer and social and solidarity economy organisations as options.