Replacing an old fridge may make sense if its energy use is high compared with that of a new appliance suited to your needs. Check its consumption rather than relying on your bill alone. Compare the kWh/an and usable capacities of the models you’re considering. If your appliance has broken down, a repair quote can also help you decide before buying.
If you suspect your old appliance is pushing up your bills, compare its consumption with the kWh/an figure for a replacement of a suitable capacity. ADEME points out that a new appliance that’s too large or has more features than you need can also use more energy.
The space available isn’t the only factor when choosing a size. Consider separately how much room you need for fresh food and frozen food. Also check the appliance dimensions and any installation requirements.
If your appliance has broken down, a diagnosis and repair quote can help you compare the cost of repair with buying new. For a repair outside the warranty period, check whether the fault and repairer meet the requirements for the Repair Bonus presented by ecosystem.
First decide whether your current appliance needs replacing, then work out how much fresh-food space and freezer capacity you really need. For the models you’re considering, the energy label shows annual consumption alongside capacity figures, according to the European Commission.
| What matters | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity use | Compare the kWh/an figure for the exact model with documented or measured consumption for your old appliance, taking into account the capacity you need. | If I suspect my fridge is adding to my bills, I want to check its energy use before replacing it. This could be the main concern for around 36% of consumers. |
| Usable capacity | Check the litres available for fresh food and frozen food separately, as well as the dimensions that will fit the space. | With a small kitchen, I don’t want to cool space I won’t use. The right capacity could be the priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Freezer space | Choose between no freezer, a small freezer compartment and a fridge freezer, depending on how much you need to store. Check the stated capacity of the compartment. | If I regularly store frozen food, a small compartment may not meet my needs; if I only store a little, a large freezer could be unnecessary. Freezer capacity could be the priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Repair or replace | If your appliance has broken down, get a quote and check whether repair is an option before ordering a new one. | If my fridge isn’t working properly, I’d rather find out what repair options are available before deciding to replace it. This could be the main consideration for around 14% of consumers. |
An energy rating on its own doesn’t tell you how much an appliance will use over a year. The European Commission also shows kWh/an and capacity on fridge energy labels, while ADEME highlights how choosing an appliance that’s too large or has too many features can affect energy use.
Compare annual consumption and capacity for models that meet the same storage needs.
A higher bill doesn’t necessarily mean the fridge is the only cause, and a breakdown doesn’t automatically mean repair isn’t worthwhile.
Check the settings and condition of your appliance. If it has broken down, get a quote and ask an approved repairer about the requirements for the Repair Bonus.
A fridge freezer gives you a separate space for frozen food, but that extra capacity is only useful if it suits your habits. ADEME points out that the size of an appliance can affect its energy use.
Think about how much frozen food you usually store before choosing between a small compartment and a separate freezer.
Used fridges must be disposed of through the electrical and electronic equipment recycling scheme, which requires suitable collection, according to the ministry responsible for ecological transition.
Before delivery, ask the retailer how they can take back an old appliance of the same type, or arrange suitable collection yourself.
In France, Bosch offers freestanding and integrated fridge freezers.
Liebherr’s French range includes freestanding and built-in fridge freezers in a variety of capacities and sizes.
In France, Whirlpool offers built-in and freestanding fridge freezers, with different defrosting options depending on the model.
Samsung offers fridge freezers in a range of capacities, including some models with connected features.
These appliances combine fridge and freezer space, with different capacities and installation options. Start by working out how much space you need, then check the consumption for the exact model. This selection alone can’t tell you how much you might save compared with your old appliance.
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Worth considering if your kitchen needs an integrated appliance with freezer space.
The model name indicates a total capacity of 252 L and No Frost technology. Before buying, check the housing dimensions, fixing system and ventilation requirements, as well as the capacity of each compartment.
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Consider this model if you’re looking for a fridge freezer with 333 L of fresh and frozen storage space.
Check the capacity of each compartment, the dimensions and the clearance needed for installation, then check the kWh/an figure on the energy label for the exact model.
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Worth a look if you need a 344 L fridge freezer, provided that capacity suits your usual storage needs.
Check the available space, the fresh-food and freezer capacities, and the annual consumption stated for this model.
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This multi-door style is worth considering if you’ll make full use of its generous fridge and freezer capacity.
The model name indicates a capacity of 467 L and Total No Frost. Before choosing this large appliance, check the separate compartment capacities, the space available and the kWh/an figure on its energy label.
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Only consider this model if its total capacity of 444 L suits the space available and your storage needs.
The model name mentions frost-free operation. Check the dimensions, the split between fridge and freezer space, and the kWh/an figure before comparing it with a different style.
No. Also compare the kWh/an figure and the fresh-food and freezer capacities for the exact model. The European Commission includes this information on the energy label; its QR code takes you to the product record in the EPREL database.
Start with your storage habits rather than choosing the largest capacity available. UFC-Que Choisir suggests 100 to 150 L for one person, then a further 50 L for each additional person. Adjust this to how often you shop and how much space you need for frozen food.
Yes, subject to certain conditions. ecosystem offers the scheme for repairs outside the warranty period when the fault is eligible and the work is carried out by a QualiRépar-approved repairer. Check that the repair qualifies before the work begins, and compare the quote with the cost of replacing your appliance.
Arrange for it to be taken back or collected appropriately rather than putting it out with your ordinary rubbish. The ministry responsible for ecological transition explains that retailers can take back an old appliance when you buy a new one of the same type. Ask the retailer how this works before completing your order.