Joybuy Insights

Buying a Fridge Freezer: Types, Costs and Suitable Models Compared

A fridge freezer combines a fridge and freezer compartment in one appliance. This saves space and makes kitchen planning easier. However, models vary considerably in terms of dimensions, usable capacity, energy consumption, noise levels and maintenance requirements.

When choosing a freestanding appliance, three common purchasing misconceptions can easily lead to the wrong decision:

  • The external dimensions are calculated too tightly: In addition to the appliance width, you need to allow for clearance from walls, the door opening angle and the route needed to transport it.
  • “No Frost” is assumed to mean low electricity consumption: No Frost technology reduces the need for manual defrosting, but on its own says nothing about the energy efficiency class or annual consumption.
  • Special features are valued more highly than your actual needs: A fridge with a water dispenser, ice maker or app control requires more space and may involve additional cleaning or a water connection.

Which type is right for your household?

The most suitable type depends mainly on your kitchen, household size and shopping habits.

  • A compact fridge with a separate freezer compartment is suitable for single households, couples, offices or holiday homes.
  • A classic freestanding fridge freezer with the freezer at the bottom often offers a well-balanced layout for domestic households.
  • A French-door fridge freezer combines wide fridge compartments with several doors and usually a large freezer compartment. It does, however, require more floor space.
  • A side-by-side fridge freezer, also known as an American-style fridge freezer, places the fridge and freezer compartments next to each other. This makes it easier to see what is inside, but usually requires more width.
  • A fridge with a freezer compartment and a low overall height may fit under a worktop or into smaller rooms. The freezer compartment is often more limited in size.

Before buying, measure the available space in three places: width, height and depth. Also check whether the door can open fully and whether the stairwell, lift or front door allows the appliance to be transported in. A model with a reversible door can provide extra flexibility in rooms with limited space.

The key technical specifications

1. Compare usable capacity rather than gross volume

The relevant figure is the stated usable capacity in litres. For a single household or office, 80 to 150 litres may be sufficient. Couples and small families often look for around 200 to 300 litres, while a fridge freezer for families who do larger shops may need considerably more capacity.

Also pay attention to how the capacity is divided between the fridge and freezer compartments. A total capacity of 250 litres is of little use if the freezer is too small for your supplies. For many households, a split of approximately 70/30 is a practical starting point.

2. Energy efficiency class and annual consumption

The EU energy label for refrigeration appliances ranges from A to G. The energy class should always be considered together with the annual consumption in kWh. A larger appliance may use more electricity than a smaller model, even if it has a better energy class.

For a rough estimate of running costs, multiply the annual consumption by your electricity price. At 200 kWh per year and 0.35 euros per kWh, this works out at around 70 euros in annual electricity costs, for example. The actual amount depends on your individual tariff.

An energy-efficient fridge freezer should therefore not be chosen based on the letter alone. Compare the size, annual consumption and features directly.

3. Noise level, defrosting system and compressor

For open-plan kitchens, rooms near bedrooms or offices, the noise level in dB(A) is important. Many users find levels of around 37 to 40 dB(A) pleasantly quiet, although the acoustics of the room will affect how the appliance sounds.

A No Frost fridge freezer uses circulating air to remove moisture and prevents significant ice build-up in the freezer compartment under normal conditions. With Low Frost, the need for defrosting is usually lower than with static systems, although manual defrosting may still be necessary.

A fridge freezer with an inverter compressor adjusts the compressor output to match the cooling requirement. This can help provide more consistent operating cycles. Any specific energy saving can only be assessed using the particular energy label and considering how the appliance is used.

Recommendations for different household profiles

The following models have been matched to different usage situations based on their type, usable capacity, dimensions, consumption and features.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Comfee' 174 L Freestanding Freezer

Comfee' 174 L Freestanding Freezer, Low Frost

Why this product suits this profile: With 115 litres of fridge capacity and 59 litres of freezer capacity, this appliance is suitable for smaller households, offices and bedrooms. Its width of 47 cm makes it easier to plan for spaces where room is limited.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Low Frost limits ice build-up without suggesting that the appliance uses a full No Frost system. The reversible door is useful for awkward room layouts.

Main benefit & strengths

115/59 litres, 47 cm width, adjustable thermostat and LED lighting.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality expectations
homeX CFSN2531C-S fridge freezer

homeX CFSN2531C-S, No Frost, 253 litres

Why this product suits this profile: This model combines 182 litres of fridge capacity and 71 litres of freezer capacity with No Frost, energy efficiency class C and annual consumption of 141 kWh.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The technical specifications state both the energy class and annual consumption. This makes it easier to assess running costs than relying on advertising claims alone.

Main benefit & strengths

No Frost, 39 dB(A), 253 litres and reversible door.

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

CHiQ JR318WSD, 322 litres Total No Frost

Why this product suits this profile: With 226 litres of fridge capacity and 96 litres of freezer capacity, it offers plenty of storage space for larger shops. The appliance is 59.5 cm wide, 185.5 cm high and rated for ambient temperatures from 10 to 43 °C.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated dimensions show the possible depth of 63.5 cm. This helps prevent the appliance from protruding unexpectedly into the kitchen.

Main benefit & strengths

322 litres, Total No Frost, 37 dB(A) and 196 kWh per year according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Households needing plenty of storage space
LG GMF961EV6C Multi Door Refrigerator

LG GMF961EV6C Multi Door Refrigerator, 645 litres

Why this product suits this profile: This multi-door appliance offers 384 litres of fridge capacity and 261 litres of freezer capacity. It is aimed at large households that regularly buy in bulk.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The generous usable capacity is complemented by precise dimensions of 91.4 × 179.2 × 73.3 cm. Before buying, check that your doors, access routes and available space are suitable.

Main benefit & strengths

645 litres, No Frost, energy class C, 34 dB(A), water and ice dispenser, plus app compatibility.

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.

Frequently asked questions about fridge freezers

How many litres should a fridge freezer have?

A usable capacity of around 100 to 200 litres may be sufficient for one person. Couples often need more space, while families may benefit from 250 litres or more, depending on their shopping habits. The split between the fridge and freezer compartments and the available floor space are the key considerations.

How long does a fridge freezer last?

The service life depends on the compressor, how the appliance is used, where it is installed, cleaning and maintenance. Good ventilation, correct levelling and keeping the ventilation areas clear can help ensure reliable operation. Check the warranty and manufacturer’s information before buying.

How much does it cost to run per year?

Multiply the stated annual consumption in kWh by your electricity price. At 150 kWh and 0.35 euros per kWh, the calculated cost is around 52.50 euros per year. Actual consumption may vary depending on room temperature, how full the appliance is, how often the door is opened and the temperature setting.