If your fridge or freezer is no longer keeping food properly chilled, get a diagnosis and quote before deciding to replace it. If you do need a replacement, compare new and refurbished appliances based on the condition of the one being sold. Then choose a size to suit your needs for fresh and frozen food, the space available and the stated annual energy consumption.
When fresh or frozen food is no longer being kept properly, the priority is to get a diagnosis, then arrange a replacement and have the old appliance taken away if necessary. The ADEME covers issues including inadequate cooling and unusual ice build-up.
If you regularly use both compartments, check their usable capacity separately. A suitable total capacity does not guarantee that you will have enough room for frozen food.
If you are also considering repair or a refurbished appliance, compare the quote, the condition of the appliance on offer, its warranty and its annual energy consumption. The ADEME points out that refrigeration appliances run continuously.
A breakdown does not automatically mean you need to buy a new appliance. Get the repair assessed, then weigh up your replacement options against your storage needs and installation requirements.
Consider this: if a professional can diagnose the fault and provide a quote.
Compare: repairing keeps your current appliance, without changing its capacity or energy consumption.
Consider this: if the professional seller clearly explains the tests carried out, the appliance’s condition and its warranty.
Check: the specifications should relate to the appliance being sold, not just the original new model.
Consider this: if replacement is justified or your old appliance’s capacity and format no longer meet your needs.
Choose: a fridge, a fridge-freezer or a freezer, depending on how much space you need for fresh and frozen food.
| What matters | What to check | Shoppers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Getting things cold again | Ask for a diagnosis and a quote. If you replace the appliance, confirm the delivery and collection arrangements. | When food is no longer being kept properly, I want to minimise the disruption without buying before I know what repair options are available. Around 33% of shoppers would prioritise keeping things running smoothly. |
| Making sure it fits | Measure the space and access routes; check the dimensions, ventilation and, for an integrated model, the door fitting. | In a fitted kitchen or existing alcove, I need to be sure I can install the appliance without finding out it does not fit. Around 27% of shoppers would put space compatibility first. |
| Storing frozen food | Compare the freezer compartment’s usable capacity and layout, rather than looking only at total capacity. | If I regularly stock up, I need enough freezer space. I might consider a separate appliance if my fridge is still working. Around 20% of shoppers would make this a priority. |
| Managing long-term use | Compare energy consumption in kWh/year across appliances with similar formats and capacities. Check the repair quote or, for a refurbished appliance, its condition and warranty. | To avoid replacing an appliance too soon or buying one that is not suited to everyday use, I want to compare my options beyond the immediate purchase. Around 20% of shoppers would prioritise long-term use. |
Inadequate cooling or unusual ice build-up alone is not enough to decide whether to repair or replace an appliance.
Ask a professional for a diagnosis and a quote. If the appliance is no longer under warranty, also check whether the repair qualifies for the Repair Bonus with a certified repairer.
With a fridge-freezer, the split between fridge and freezer space may not suit your habits. An integrated model also needs to fit its housing and door system.
Compare the capacity of both compartments and check the dimensions, ventilation, door-opening direction and, if needed, the fitting of the cabinet door.
A format that does not fit may mean changing your kitchen layout or keeping an additional appliance.
The ADEME reminds shoppers that refrigeration appliances run continuously. An energy rating letter does not replace the consumption figure for the model you are considering.
Check the kWh/year figure on the label and compare appliances with similar formats and capacities.
The DGCCRF states that a refurbished product must undergo functionality tests before it is offered for sale. The product details for the new model do not necessarily describe the condition of the appliance on offer.
Ask the professional seller for the exact reference, the tests carried out, the technical and cosmetic condition, and the warranty terms.
These brands offer features worth looking into on specific models; their inclusion here does not mean that every model in their ranges has these features.
Worth considering for a fridge or fridge-freezer if you are looking for dedicated fresh-food compartments or frost management, depending on the model.
An option to compare if you are looking at fridges or fridge-freezers with compartments designed for different fresh foods.
Worth considering for fridge-freezers, particularly integrated models, when comparing the features of both storage compartments.
These appliances combine a fridge compartment with freezer space. If you are replacing a faulty appliance, first compare how much room you need for each use and check the installation requirements. These products alone cannot determine whether repair or a refurbished appliance is the right choice for you.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you are replacing an appliance for fresh and frozen food. Check that its dimensions, door opening and required clearance suit your space.
Image unavailable
Consider this if you are looking for an appliance that combines fridge storage and freezer space. Check the door layout before deciding where to put it: the model is described in different ways in different listings.
Image unavailable
Compare this if you want to keep fresh and frozen food in a four-door appliance. The name specifies Total No Frost and energy rating E; check the space needed for installation and to open the doors.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you are replacing a fridge-freezer integrated into your kitchen. The name specifies TwinTech No Frost and energy rating E. Before comparing capacities, check the housing measurements, door system and exact stated capacity.
Image unavailable
Consider this if you prioritise fresh food but still want space for frozen food. Check that the freezer compartment has enough capacity for you and confirm the installation type before buying.
Yes, these appliance categories are included, subject to the scheme’s terms. If your appliance is no longer under warranty, check whether the repair is eligible with a certified repairer, as explained by ecosystem.
Do not assume that a statutory repairability index will be shown for a fridge or freezer: these appliances were not on the list of categories covered, published by the Ministry for Ecological Transition on 8 July 2025. To compare models, ask instead about spare parts, documentation and warranty terms.
According to ecosystem, when you buy a new equivalent appliance, the retailer must offer free ‘one-for-one’ take-back of your old one. Check when placing your order how collection will be arranged for your delivery option.
Ask the professional seller about the condition of the specific appliance, the functionality tests carried out and the warranty terms. The DGCCRF states that a product described as refurbished must have been tested before sale. According to the Ministry of the Economy, the legal guarantee of conformity also applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional.