Joybuy Insights

Buying a Fridge Freezer: What to Consider When Choosing Size and Energy Consumption

A fridge freezer combines a fridge and freezer compartment in one appliance, helping you save space. However, not every model is suitable for every kitchen. Small flats often need a compact fridge, while families require more usable capacity and a well-organised freezer area.

When buying, avoidable costs often arise from three common pitfalls:

  • The external dimensions are underestimated: An appliance measuring 60 cm in width may still not fit the intended space because of the door opening, plinth or required side clearance.
  • Gross and usable capacity are confused: What matters is how many litres are actually available in the fridge and freezer compartments.
  • No Frost and Low Frost are treated as the same: A No-Frost fridge largely prevents ice from forming in the freezer compartment automatically. Low Frost reduces ice formation, but may still require manual defrosting.

The most important buying criteria for a fridge freezer

1. Usable capacity and layout

A model with around 200 to 260 litres may be sufficient for singles or couples. Families should check whether the fridge freezer offers at least around 300 litres of usable capacity. The layout is also important:

  • 70/30 split: More space in the fridge compartment, suitable for fresh food and regular shopping.
  • 60/40 split: Practical if frozen food is stored frequently.
  • Freezer compartment at the bottom: Fresh food is stored at a convenient height, while the freezer compartment is accessed from the bottom drawers when needed.
  • Side-by-side fridge freezer or French-door fridge freezer: Plenty of storage space and wide compartments, but usually larger external dimensions and higher space requirements.

Pay attention to the separate fridge and freezer capacities. For example, an appliance with a total capacity of 253 litres may offer 182 litres for the fridge and 71 litres for the freezer compartment.

2. Energy efficiency and running costs

The EU energy label uses a scale from A to G. However, the energy efficiency class should never be considered in isolation. Also compare the stated annual consumption in kilowatt hours.

A simple calculation helps put this into perspective:

Annual consumption in kWh × your electricity price per kWh = approximate annual electricity cost

An energy-efficient fridge using 141 kWh per year may be cheaper to run at the same electricity price than a larger model using 289 kWh. At the same time, greater usable capacity, the design and additional functions can increase total consumption. This is why it is worth taking a close look at the energy label when considering side-by-side and French-door appliances.

3. Noise level, No Frost and installation location

For an open-plan kitchen, office or studio flat, a quiet fridge producing around 35 to 40 dB(A) is generally more comfortable. The value is shown on the energy label. Actual perceived noise also depends on the floor, distance from the wall and the compressor’s operating phase.

Also check the following:

  • No Frost: Automatic defrosting in the freezer compartment; according to the product information, regular manual removal of ice is not required.
  • Low Frost: Less ice formation, but occasional defrosting is still required.
  • Climate class: Models in climate classes N, SN, ST or T are designed for different ambient temperatures. An appliance intended for a garage or utility room must be expressly suitable for the relevant temperature range.
  • Ventilation clearances: The manufacturer’s specified clearances behind and beside the appliance must be observed. Installing it too close to surrounding surfaces can affect heat dissipation and electricity consumption.

Our selection for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
CHiQ JR263LGE 262L Low Frost Fridge Freezer

CHiQ JR263LGE 262L Low Frost Fridge Freezer

Why this product suits the profile: This 54 cm-wide freestanding fridge freezer is ideal for smaller kitchens and households that shop regularly but do not need to store large quantities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product data states 262 litres of usable capacity, annual consumption of 215 kWh and a noise level of 39 dB(A). Low Frost is expressly identified as a system that requires manual defrosting.

Main benefit & strengths

187 litres of fridge capacity, 75 litres of freezer capacity, a reversible door and three freezer drawers.

Suitable for: Quality-focused buyers
Gorenje NRK620CA2XL4 Freestanding Fridge Freezer

Gorenje NRK620CA2XL4 Freestanding Fridge Freezer

Why this product suits the profile: This appliance combines 331 litres of usable capacity with No Frost, rapid-cooling functions and a cabinet width of 60 cm.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product information, No Frost applies to both the fridge and freezer compartments. Annual consumption is 158 kWh and the noise level is 35 dB.

Main benefit & strengths

235 litres of fridge capacity, 96 litres of freezer capacity, reversible doors, a door alarm, plus Super Cool and Fast Freeze functions.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent users
CHiQ JR318WSD 322L Total No Frost Fridge Freezer

CHiQ JR318WSD 322L Total No Frost Fridge Freezer

Why this product suits the profile: With 322 litres of usable capacity and climate classes N, SN, ST and T, this model is an interesting option for families and suitable utility rooms or garages.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product data lists Total No Frost, annual consumption of 196 kWh and a noise level of 37 dB(A). Its installation depth of 63.5 cm should be checked before purchase.

Main benefit & strengths

226 litres of fridge capacity, 96 litres of freezer capacity, a Fast Freeze function and a stated ambient temperature range of 10 to 43 °C.

Suitable for: Small kitchens, offices and extra storage
TCL RF60DWE0 45L Tabletop Mini Fridge

TCL RF60DWE0 45L Tabletop Mini Fridge

Why this product suits the profile: This compact fridge with a small freezer compartment is designed for offices, guest rooms, bedrooms or additional drinks storage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions of 44.9 × 48.5 × 51.2 cm and total capacity of 45 litres are clearly stated. The freezer compartment holds just 3 litres, so it is not intended for storing large supplies.

Main benefit & strengths

42 litres of fridge capacity, a 3-litre freezer compartment, adjustable feet and a stated noise level of 40 dB.

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.

Plan installation and delivery properly

Before buying, measure the width, height and depth of the space where the appliance will stand. Also consider:

  • the door’s opening radius,
  • the width of hallways, stairwells and the front door,
  • the distance from radiators and ovens,
  • the ventilation required,
  • the weight of the appliance during transport.

Some models have a reversible door or height-adjustable feet. These features make it easier to adapt the appliance to different kitchen layouts, but they do not replace checking the actual installation conditions.

Fridge freezer FAQ

How many litres should a fridge freezer have for a family?

This depends on how often you shop and the proportion of frozen food you store. Around 200 to 270 litres may be sufficient for two or three people. Larger families often benefit from around 300 litres or more. The separate division between fridge and freezer compartments is more important than the total figure alone.

Is No Frost worthwhile in a fridge with a freezer compartment?

No Frost can be useful if you want to avoid manual defrosting. Check the product description carefully: some appliances use No Frost only in the freezer compartment, while others automatically defrost both areas. With Low Frost, occasional defrosting is still required.

How long does a fridge freezer last?

Its lifespan depends, among other things, on usage, ventilation, cleaning and the strain placed on the compressor. Regularly checking the door seal, keeping ventilation openings clear and maintaining a suitable ambient temperature all support proper operation. The warranty and service conditions of the individual manufacturer remain decisive.