Fridge Freezer Buying Guide

What it is: Designed to be hidden behind a cupboard door, integrated fridge freezers blend seamlessly with your kitchen cabinetry.

Pros: Perfect for a minimalist kitchen aesthetic.

Cons: More expensive and harder to repair or replace. Installation can be more complicated .

What it is: These are wider units with fridge and freezer sections side by side. They often come with extra features like ice and water dispensers.

Pros: Ideal for large families, spacious storage, and convenient access to both fridge and freezer sections.

Cons: Larger and more expensive. They also require more space .

What it is: This style features double doors for the fridge section on top and either one or two freezer drawers below.

Pros: Stylish and great for storing larger items, with flexible storage space.

Cons: More expensive and takes up more floor space

What it is: Appliances with a vintage design but modern features

Pros: Adds a unique, stylish touch to your kitchen, often available in bold colors.

Cons: Typically more expensive for the aesthetic, and capacity may be smaller compared to modern designs.

• Measure carefully: Ensure you have the correct dimensions for the space you plan to place your fridge freezer. Make sure to account for door clearance and ventilation.
• Width: Standard fridge freezers range from 55cm to 70cm wide, with larger American models over 90cm.

• Family Size: Larger families will need more capacity (e.g., 300-400 litres), while smaller households or singles can manage with around 150-250 litres.
• Proportion of Fridge to Freezer: Consider what you store most often—fridge-heavy models are better for fresh food, while balanced or freezer-heavy models suit those who need ample freezer storage .

Energy efficiency is crucial for reducing electricity costs and minimizing environmental impact.

• Energy Labels: Look for the energy efficiency rating, ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Higher-rated models may have a higher upfront cost but save more on energy bills over time​.
• Running Costs: Consider the long-term running costs rather than just the purchase price. An efficient model can save you hundreds of pounds over its lifespan.

Frost-Free

• Benefits: Prevents ice buildup, meaning no need to manually defrost, and maintains consistent temperature.
• Drawbacks: More expensive upfront and slightly higher energy use.

Manual Defrost

• Benefits: More affordable, and uses slightly less energy.
• Drawbacks: Requires regular defrosting, which can be time-consuming​

• Warranty: Look for models with a minimum of 1-2 years warranty. Some premium brands may offer extended warranties of up to 5 years and on American fridge freezers some brands offer a 10 year warranty on the motor, which is in essence the heart of the appliance.
• Aftercare: Ensure you can access reliable aftercare services for repairs and maintenance, particularly for integrated or retro models which might require specialized parts.

• Budget Range: Basic fridge freezers start around £200-£400, mid-range options from £400-£800, and premium models can exceed £1000. American fridge freezers can exceed £2000 depending on make, model and features.

Balancing Features and Budget

• Consider: Whether features like frost-free technology, energy efficiency, or design are worth the extra cost. Weigh these against your budget and storage needs.