Joybuy Insights

Buying a fridge: how to compare design, energy consumption and features correctly

A fridge is one of the appliances that runs every day. That is precisely why small mistakes can lead to unnecessary costs, space problems or awkward everyday use in the long term. Anyone who focuses solely on modern design or a large capacity often overlooks important details.

Three common buying pitfalls occur particularly often:

  • Capacity is confused with practical value: A large fridge will not automatically fit in your kitchen or offer the right layout for bottles, drawers and frozen food.
  • Energy efficiency is judged only by the letter: The stated annual consumption in kilowatt-hours is also important. An appliance with a larger capacity can use significantly more electricity despite having the same energy efficiency class.
  • Features are chosen based on marketing terms rather than actual needs: Water dispensers, app controls and special freshness zones are only worthwhile if they are used regularly in everyday life and their cleaning requirements and space needs suit your household.

These parameters should be checked before buying

1. Dimensions, door opening and actual capacity

Do not just measure the available recess. Also check the route for delivery, the door width and the space needed when the door is open. With a freestanding appliance, you must also allow for the clearances from the wall and sides specified by the manufacturer.

The litre capacity should be considered separately for the fridge and freezer compartments. A fridge freezer with a capacity of 300 litres may be sufficient for a smaller household, while families or larger households may prefer to consider a model with 450 to 650 litres. With a side-by-side fridge, the freezer and fridge compartments are usually positioned next to each other. A French-door fridge or multi-door fridge, on the other hand, provides several doors and drawers, which can make it easier to organise large quantities of food.

2. Energy consumption and efficiency class

The EU energy label shows the efficiency class from A to G, as well as annual consumption in kWh. Wherever possible, compare appliances with a similar usable capacity. An energy-efficient fridge can help to limit running costs when used frequently. However, actual consumption also depends on room temperature, how full the appliance is, how often the door is opened and where it is installed.

For example, the Hisense RS3P558NEFE is listed with 317 kWh per year and energy efficiency class E. The Hisense RQ5P470SAFD, on the other hand, has energy efficiency class D. The classification alone does not replace checking the capacity and annual consumption.

3. Noise level, defrosting and interior layout

The noise level is important for open-plan kitchens or smaller homes. Models producing around 35 to 40 dB may be perceived differently depending on the acoustics of the room. A quiet fridge should therefore be assessed not only by its marketing claims, but also by its stated dB value.

A No Frost fridge uses circulating air to prevent ice from forming in the freezer compartment and reduces the need for manual defrosting. Also check whether the interior air circulation, adjustable glass shelves, door racks and salad drawers suit the way you store food. A traditional fridge with freezer compartment is often easier to organise for smaller households than a large multi-door model.

Our selection for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Bomann KG 322.1 Inox fridge with freezer compartment

Bomann KG 322.1 Inox fridge with freezer compartment

Why this product suits the profile: This appliance offers 175 litres of usable capacity, including 122 litres of fridge space and 53 litres of freezer space, with a width of 49,5 cm. This makes it suitable for smaller kitchens and modest food stocks.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The separate compartments make the usable capacity easy to understand. Annual consumption is listed as 156 kWh; the freezer compartment must be defrosted manually.

Key benefit & strengths

Reversible door, operating noise of 39 dB, three glass shelves and three freezer drawers.

Suitable for: Quality-focused buyers
Hisense RQ5P470SAFD multi-door fridge

Hisense RQ5P470SAFD fridge

Why this product suits the profile: This cross-door model combines 483 litres of usable capacity with separate fridge, freezer and variable-temperature compartments. Its design makes it easier to organise different types of food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Total No Frost reduces the need for manual defrosting. Before ordering, check the dimensions of approximately 79,4 cm wide and 69,8 cm deep.

Key benefit & strengths

Energy efficiency class D, approximately 35 dB, inverter compressor and a convertible zone ranging from −18 °C to +5 °C.

Suitable for: Special uses & high-volume users
LG GMF960EV2E FoodCenter fridge

LG GMF960EV2E FoodCenter

Why this product suits the profile: With a total capacity of 645 litres, this FoodCenter is designed for large households, frequent shopping and substantial drinks supplies.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The four doors keep the compartments clearly separated. Before buying, allow for the width of 91,4 cm, depth of 72,9 cm and additional space for the doors to open.

Key benefit & strengths

No Frost, 384 litres of fridge space, 261 litres of freezer space, plus an integrated water and ice dispenser.

Suitable for: Integrated kitchens
Siemens KI81RNSE0 integrated fridge

Siemens KI81RNSE0 integrated fridge

Why this product suits the profile: This fully integrated fridge offers 310 litres of dedicated fridge space and is designed for an installation recess approximately 177,5 cm high and 56 cm wide.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The required installation dimensions are clearly stated. As there is no freezer compartment, the entire interior can be used for fresh food.

Key benefit & strengths

35 dB, seven safety-glass shelves, two freshness drawers, automatic defrosting and annual consumption of 114 kWh according to the product details.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

Practical tips for installation and operation

  • After transporting the appliance, leave it standing upright in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions before connecting it.
  • Keep ventilation openings clear and do not place the fridge directly next to radiators, cookers or in direct sunlight.
  • A fridge temperature of approximately 4 °C is often used as a general guide; the manufacturer’s instructions and actual usage are the key factors.
  • Do not overload the shelves or block any air vents.
  • Clean the door seals regularly. A door that does not close completely increases energy consumption.
  • For appliances with a water dispenser, check whether it uses a water tank or requires a fixed water connection.

Fridge FAQ

How many litres should a fridge have?

This depends on the size of your household, how often you shop and how much freezer space you need. A compact appliance may be sufficient for one person or a couple. Families often consider fridge freezers from around 300 litres, while larger households may benefit from 450 litres or more. The separate fridge and freezer capacities are the key figures to check.

How noisy should a fridge be?

For living kitchens, models producing around 35 to 40 dB are considered relatively quiet. However, this value does not mean the appliance will be completely silent. Compressor start-up, room acoustics and the installation position all affect how the noise is perceived.

How long does a fridge last?

Its service life depends on the compressor, maintenance, ventilation, door seals and operating conditions. Regular cleaning, correct levelling and sufficient clearance from the wall can reduce the strain on the appliance. When choosing a model, you should also consider the warranty terms, availability of spare parts and repair service.