For a small shop in a studio flat, start with a compact fridge that suits your needs and fits the space available. Choose a fridge-freezer if you genuinely need a separate freezer and more storage. Compare the noise levels quoted for different models, but don’t treat them as a guarantee that you won’t hear the appliance near your bed. Then check the ventilation clearances specified in the manual.
If your bed is close to the kitchen and you only shop for a few things at a time, a compact fridge is worth considering. UFC-Que Choisir describes this format as suitable for studio flats; just be sure to check the capacity and stated noise level of the model you’re considering.
When the fridge is in your living space, the room available matters just as much as the dB(A) figure. Measure the space and allow for the airflow specified in the manual, particularly if the appliance is to be integrated.
A fridge-freezer could suit you if you’ll make good use of the extra capacity and its height, installation type and ventilation requirements work for your home. A low stated noise level doesn’t automatically make a large appliance suitable for a studio flat.
Start with your usual shopping habits and the space you have, then compare the stated noise levels of formats that genuinely meet both needs.
| What to consider | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Compare the stated dB(A) levels of appliances in a similar size category. Look for reviews that describe cycles and vibrations, or test results with a clearly explained methodology. | If I sleep near the kitchen, a low figure helps me narrow down my options, but I don’t take it as a promise that I won’t hear the appliance. |
| Capacity | Check the fridge’s usable capacity and its full dimensions. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between compact fridges for studio flats and formats designed for greater storage needs. | If I only do a small shop, I’d rather check that a compact model is big enough before making room for a fridge-freezer. |
| Freezing | Check whether the model has a freezer compartment, how much it holds and what it’s designed for. A small built-in compartment won’t necessarily replace a separate freezer. | I regularly store frozen food, so the capacity and features of the compartment matter more to me than the simple label ‘fridge-freezer’. |
| Installation | Measure the height, width and depth, as well as the space needed to open the door. Follow the clearances specified in the manual and, for an integrated model, check the required vents. Electrolux highlights the importance of ventilation. | In an open-plan kitchen, the appliance needs to fit its space without blocking the airflow required for installation. |
| Energy use | Check the energy label and the specifications of the model you’re considering, as well as its capacity and stated noise level. Don’t assume its energy use from its size alone. | I’m looking for a capacity that suits my shopping habits, without overlooking energy use when I make my final choice. |
The stated figure helps you compare models, but it doesn’t tell you everything about intermittent sounds or vibrations you might notice near your bed.
Use it to narrow down your options, then look for detailed reviews or independent tests. Also check the model’s installation and ventilation requirements.
A fridge-freezer can take up considerably more space than a compact fridge, even if its stated noise level is low. The Bosch KIV86SFE0, for example, is an integrated model that stands 177,2 cm tall, according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Consider how much fresh food you need to chill and how often you use frozen food before choosing a format. Then check that it can be installed in your chosen space.
Electrolux says that air needs to circulate for refrigeration appliances to work properly, particularly when they’re integrated.
Measure the space before you buy and follow the clearances specified in the manual for your model. Avoid placing it near a heat source.
A general rating won’t necessarily tell you which sounds people heard or the conditions in which the appliance was installed.
Look for reviews that describe the cycles, vibrations, proximity to the bed and installation conditions, rather than relying on a rating alone.
These models illustrate different formats and requirements. The specifications mentioned apply to the specific models, not to every product from each brand.
Bosch Electroménager France’s product specifications let you compare a compact fridge with an integrated fridge-freezer here.
The Oceanic compact fridge featured by BUT is one option to consider when space is limited.
The RB34C602ESA is an example of a fridge-freezer to consider if your storage needs go beyond those of a small studio flat.
These options range from a small 45 L fridge to two fridge-freezers. First compare the capacity you’d find useful, then check the stated noise level where it appears in the model name, along with the installation requirements, before making your choice.
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Its 45 L capacity is designed for modest storage needs in a small space. The product name lists adjustable feet, a toughened glass shelf and an E energy rating. If you plan to store frozen food, check the specifications of the freezer compartment, as well as the clearances set out in the manual.
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Consider this model if you genuinely need a separate freezer and have room for a 253 L fridge-freezer. The product name lists 182 L of fridge capacity, 71 L of freezer capacity, a noise level of 39 dB and No Frost. Measure the space and check the model’s installation and ventilation requirements.
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This capacity could suit you if you need a separate freezer but don’t want the 253 L fridge-freezer featured here. The product name lists 120 L of fridge capacity, 50 L of freezer capacity, a noise level of 40 dB and an E energy rating. Check its dimensions and ventilation clearances before deciding where to put it in a studio flat.
Compare the stated dB(A) levels of appliances in a similar size category, but don’t treat the figure as a guarantee that you won’t hear the fridge. Bosch gives 39 dB as an indicative guide for a quiet fridge, though cycles and vibrations may still be noticeable near your bed.
The stated noise level doesn’t tell you everything about intermittent sounds or vibrations in your room. When choosing, look for reviews that describe the sounds people heard and the installation conditions. Also follow the ventilation requirements in the manual: Electrolux highlights how important they are for the appliance to work properly.
Yes. Leave the clearances specified in the model’s manual. Electrolux recommends allowing air to circulate around the appliance and points out that vents are particularly important for integrated models.
First, follow the instructions for the appliance you’ve received. For the installation it describes, Electrolux recommends waiting at least 4 hours before plugging it in, to allow the oil to flow back into the compressor.