Anyone sensitive to noise in the living area
If you live or work in the same room as your fridge, compare the stated noise level and the noise class shown on the energy label for the exact model.
Who should consider these factors?
Kitchens with an appliance close to a wall
When space at the side or in front is limited, the door-open dimensions, hinge position and drawer clearance matter just as much as the appliance’s dimensions when closed.
Fitted kitchen or renovation projects
Choosing between a freestanding and built-in model depends on the housing, ventilation and door system. If you choose a fridge, also plan where to put the freezer you need.
What should you check before buying?
Freestanding fridge-freezer
Consider this: if you want to refrigerate and freeze food in one appliance, provided you can follow its installation requirements.
Allow for: the space taken up by the appliance, its open doors and the ventilation clearances specified for the model you choose.
Built-in fridge
Consider this: if you have a suitable housing and can use a separate appliance for freezing.
Allow for: two suitable locations that meet the ventilation and opening requirements of each appliance.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in the living area | Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class on each model’s energy label, rather than assuming how noisy it will be based on its cooling system. | If I work or relax near the kitchen, I want to compare the stated noise level before choosing. Around 31% of consumers put quiet operation at the top of their list. |
| Opening the door near a wall | Check the door-open dimensions, hinge position and clearance needed to remove the drawers. | With a wall or unit right beside the fridge, I need to be able to open the door and remove the drawers without anything getting in the way; around 25% of consumers prioritise this above other factors. |
| Fridge and freezer capacity | Compare the usable capacity of each compartment separately and check whether you will need a separate freezer. | If I also store frozen food, the space for each purpose matters more than the total capacity alone. Around 25% of consumers make this their priority. |
| Ventilation and fitting | Follow the clearance requirements for a freestanding model or, for a built-in model, check the dimensions and air vents required for its housing. | When space is limited, I need to know whether the appliance can be installed there in line with its instructions; around 19% of consumers prioritise this compatibility. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying only on the appliance’s dimensions when closed
A fridge may fit into its space, but a wall or projecting unit could stop the door opening or prevent you from removing a drawer.
Ask for a dimensioned drawing showing the door open, then mark the door swing and drawer clearance on your kitchen plan.
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Using the same clearances for freestanding and built-in models
Whirlpool specifies 5 cm above and 10 cm behind its freestanding fridges; these measurements do not replace the instructions for a built-in housing.
Check the instructions for the model you choose and, for a built-in appliance, the planned route for air intake and exhaust.
If the housing is unsuitable, you may need to modify the unit or move the appliance.
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Assuming fan-assisted or forced-air cooling means low noise
These terms describe air circulation or frost management, not the noise level of every model that uses them.
Compare the cooling technology, dB(A) rating and noise class of the exact model separately.
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Judging repairability based on a missing rating
The absence of a displayed rating is not, on its own, enough to assess how easy a fridge is to repair.
Check the model documentation, warranty terms and the manufacturer’s information on parts and repairs.
Brands to consider for these configurations
Bosch
Two freestanding fridge-freezers to consider if you’re looking for model-specific dimensions and noise figures.
- According to Bosch Electroménager France, the KGN39AIAU measures 2030 × 600 × 665 mm and has a noise level of 29 dB(A); the KGN39VLEA measures 2030 × 600 × 660 mm and has a noise level of 39 dB(A).
- Bosch advertises “Perfect Fit” for these models, but this does not replace checking the door swing, drawer clearance and ventilation for your kitchen layout.
Whirlpool
A brand to consider when comparing the installation requirements of freestanding and built-in appliances.
- Whirlpool recommends 5 cm above and 10 cm behind its freestanding fridges. The brand also lists the built-in WHC18T574P with a capacity of 250 L and a stated noise level of 32 dB.
- Clearances for a freestanding model should not be applied to a built-in housing: check the instructions for the model you choose.
Electrolux
One to consider for a built-in fridge project with a separate freezer.
- Electrolux lists a total net capacity of 310 L, a noise level of 32 dB and a sliding-hinge installation for the ERD6DE18S4.
- This fridge has no freezer compartment, so if you need to freeze food, you’ll need to plan for a separate appliance and a space for it.
Joybuy products related to this choice
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
What noise level should I look for in an open-plan kitchen?
Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class on the energy labels of models that suit your space, rather than relying on a single cut-off. To compare two specific models, Bosch Electroménager France lists 29 dB(A) for the KGN39AIAU and 39 dB(A) for the KGN39VLEA; these figures do not apply to every Bosch fridge.
How can I check whether the door and drawers will open near a wall?
Use the dimensioned drawing showing the door open and mark the door swing and drawer clearance in your kitchen. Check the hinge position and the space in front of the appliance: its dimensions when closed are not enough to confirm you can access the drawers.
How much space should I leave around a fridge for ventilation?
Follow the installation instructions for the model you choose. Whirlpool specifies 5 cm above and 10 cm behind its freestanding fridges; for a built-in model, check the dimensions and ventilation requirements for its housing instead.
Does fan-assisted or forced-air cooling mean the appliance will be quiet?
No. The way air circulates does not, on its own, tell you how noisy a fridge will be. Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class for the exact model, then check its cooling technology, dimensions and installation requirements separately.