How to choose a fridge freezer: size, energy label and noise

A fridge freezer runs 24 hours a day for ten years or more, so the running cost and the fit in your kitchen matter as much as the price.

1. Measure the space, and the way in

Measure the height, width and depth of the space, then add room for air to circulate: check the manufacturer's installation guide for the exact clearance. Measure doorways, corridors and stairs on the delivery route too.

2. Freestanding or American-style?

• Freestanding (60 cm wide): fits standard kitchen spaces and suits most households.
• American-style (around 90 cm wide): far more space, often with an ice and water dispenser, but it needs a wide space and sometimes a water connection.

3. Capacity

As a rough guide, allow about 100 litres of fridge space per person plus some spare, and choose the fridge-to-freezer split based on how you shop. Weekly big shops favour a bigger freezer; frequent fresh shopping favours a bigger fridge.

4. The energy label

Fridge freezers use the rescaled A to G label introduced in 2021. Few models reach the top classes, so compare the annual energy consumption in kWh printed on the label: it tells you directly what the appliance will cost to run at your electricity tariff.

5. Noise

The label also shows noise in decibels and a noise class from A to D. If your kitchen is open-plan, a quieter model makes a real difference.

6. Frost-free and other features

Frost-free freezers never need defrosting by hand. Other useful extras include fast-freeze settings, humidity-controlled salad drawers and door alarms. Wi-Fi connectivity is nice to have but rarely essential.

Delivery and installation

Fridge freezers are large items and come with two-person delivery. Leave the appliance standing upright for a few hours after delivery before switching it on (the manual gives the exact time), so the coolant can settle.