Start by choosing the type and capacity you genuinely need, then compare models of the same format based on their annual energy consumption in kWh, as shown on the energy label, rather than relying solely on the energy class letter. A fridge-freezer is suitable when you regularly need both refrigeration and freezing in one appliance; a fridge or separate freezer makes sense when its compartment meets a lasting need.
To reduce continuous energy consumption without unnecessarily cutting storage capacity, compare kWh/year, net capacities and the new A to G scale between appliances of the same type and compatible dimensions.
If both compartments are needed in a single space, a fridge-freezer lets you compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately, along with annual energy consumption, without assuming that a larger capacity or No Frost is automatically more efficient.
When the available space is fixed, check the height, width, depth and available capacities first, then weigh up annual energy consumption, noise level and capacity.
Fridges and freezers run continuously, according to ADEME. Start by selecting the useful format and capacity, then compare the information on the labels of genuinely comparable appliances.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Annual energy consumption | Compare kWh/year between appliances of the same type, capacity and installation format. Use the A to G class as an additional reference. Do not directly convert an old A+++, A++ or A+ label to the new scale. | I want to be able to compare the electricity used by an appliance that stays switched on all year round. The label’s QR code can help you find the exact model listing in EPREL when available. |
| Usable capacity | Look at the litres for the fridge compartment and freezer compartment separately. Once you have selected a suitable capacity, compare the kWh/year of the usable formats. | My appliance must hold the fresh food I need without buying an unnecessarily large total capacity. If frozen food is only an occasional requirement, a small compartment may be enough; otherwise, check the freezer capacity before choosing. |
| Installation and noise | For built-in models, check the niche dimensions and installation requirements. Compare the noise level in dB(A), the noise class and the installation type between equivalent models. | I want a model that is compatible with my kitchen and quiet enough for use near a living area. Dimensions and ventilation clearances matter just as much as the stated capacity. |
The letter alone does not tell you the fridge and freezer capacities or the noise level. Two appliances of different sizes or formats do not meet the same needs and cannot be distinguished by the class alone.
First define the type of appliance and the capacity in litres you need, then compare kWh/year, net capacities for each compartment and the noise level on the labels of the exact models.
Since the label was revised in 2021, the measurement methods and classes have changed. Bosch and Whirlpool state that a direct conversion between the old classes and the current A to G scale is not reliable.
When comparing a current purchase, use the kWh/year on the current label and the usable capacities, keeping to appliances with comparable formats and capacities.
A model may not fit the existing cabinet or may offer an unsuitable fridge-freezer split despite its attractive total capacity.
Measure the niche and check the installation dimensions, the litres in each compartment, the door-opening direction and the installation requirements before ordering.
An installation service may be offered separately: check its terms when making your purchase.
Defrosting or temperature-control functions may meet a particular usage need, but they do not replace the regulated annual consumption figure or a comparison between appliances with comparable capacities.
Choose the features that meet a genuine need, then check the kWh/year, capacity, noise level and installation configuration of the exact model.
Bosch is a useful reference for reading the energy labels of fridges and freezers sold in France.
Electrolux provides useful benchmarks for households looking for a built-in fridge-freezer with separate capacities and documented installation specifications.
Whirlpool provides an example of a built-in fridge-freezer for comparing capacity, energy class, noise and installation requirements.
Joybuy options covering standalone fridges and fridge-freezers, so you can compare capacity, installation and stated annual energy consumption according to your kitchen.
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Worth considering for a fitted kitchen requiring separate fresh-food and freezer compartments.
Stated figures: 176 L fridge capacity, 76 L freezer capacity, 150 kWh/year, class C and 34 dB(A). No Frost model with reversible door.
Check the niche dimensions and ventilation requirements before buying. Compare the 150 kWh/year with built-in fridge-freezers of a similar capacity.
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This freestanding fridge-freezer is aimed at households needing substantial fresh-food and freezer capacity.
Stated figures: 235 L fridge capacity, 125 L freezer capacity, 271 kWh/year, class E and 35 dB(A). Dimensions: 185 × 59,5 × 66,7 cm.
Its 360 L capacity should match a genuine need. Check the installation space, ventilation and the clearance required to bring it into position.
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A 54 cm-wide format to consider for a narrow kitchen requiring both refrigeration and freezing.
Stated figures: 187 L fridge capacity, 75 L freezer capacity, 215 kWh/year, class E and 39 dB(A). Dimensions: 1760 × 540 × 550 mm.
The Low Frost system still requires periodic manual defrosting. The stated N-ST climate class is suitable for an ambient temperature between 16 °C and 38 °C.
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This model is primarily suited to a built-in kitchen where the main requirement is refrigeration.
Stated figures: 174 L fridge capacity, 14 L freezer capacity, 146 kWh/year, class E and 35 dB. Stated niche: 56 × 122,5 × 55 cm.
The 14 L freezer compartment is limited and requires manual defrosting. Also check the sliding-door system and whether a furniture door is included.
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Only consider this model if you need refrigeration without a freezer compartment in the same appliance.
Stated figures: 101 kWh/year, class E, 34 dB and automatic defrosting. The stated capacity differs between the available information: 188 L in the title and 208 L in the description.
Confirm the exact net capacity, niche dimensions and door-fixing system before buying.
For comparable refrigeration appliances, note the annual consumption in kWh, the net capacities of the fridge and freezer compartments, the noise level, the noise class and the A to G energy class. Capacity and kWh/year should be considered together: a better class letter does not replace comparison with an appliance of a comparable capacity and format.
No. Bosch and Whirlpool explain that the old A+, A++ and A+++ classes were replaced by the A to G scale in 2021, with revised methods and criteria; a direct conversion is not reliable. Prioritise the kWh/year figures and net capacities on current labels.
No. The choice depends on the capacity genuinely required in each compartment. A fridge-freezer is suitable when you need refrigeration and freezing at the same time in one appliance; if you are considering two appliances, add their annual energy consumption together and check that their additional capacity meets a lasting need.
Yes. Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/2016 sets labelling requirements for mains-powered refrigeration appliances with a capacity greater than 10 L and less than or equal to 1,500 L, subject to the exclusions set out in the legislation. The relevant domestic refrigeration appliances sold in France must display an energy label.
Do not assume so. ADEME states that the mandatory durability index applies to televisions from January 2025 and washing machines from April 2025. For a refrigeration appliance, check the available documentation, spare parts, warranty terms and any repair prices published by the manufacturer on a case-by-case basis.