Joybuy Insights

Buying a Side-by-Side Fridge-Freezer: How to Compare Size, Energy Consumption and Features

A side-by-side fridge-freezer offers plenty of storage space for fresh and frozen food. That makes this design particularly appealing to families and larger households. However, capacity alone does not determine whether an appliance will fit well into everyday life. Dimensions, energy consumption, door opening and features all have a significant impact on running costs and ease of use.

Common pitfalls when buying a large fridge-freezer

1. Litre capacity without considering the layout

A high total capacity sounds convincing at first. However, what really matters is how much space is actually available in the fridge and freezer compartments. For example, a 600-litre side-by-side fridge-freezer may have a comparatively large freezer compartment but less flexible fridge storage.

Before buying, check:

  • Usable capacity of the fridge compartment
  • Usable capacity of the freezer compartment
  • Layout of the shelves and drawers
  • Width of the storage shelves
  • Space for tall bottles or large food containers

2. Water dispensers with underestimated installation requirements

A fridge-freezer with a water dispenser does not automatically require a mains water connection. Appliances with an integrated tank do not need plumbing, but the tank must be filled and cleaned regularly. With a model that uses a mains water connection, buyers should check whether the kitchen has a suitable connection and whether additional installation costs will apply.

It is also worth checking the exact function of a fridge-freezer with an ice dispenser. Some appliances dispense ice cubes and crushed ice, while others provide ice cubes only. The requirements for the water supply and the ice-making capacity should be clearly stated in the technical specifications.

3. Confusing No Frost with energy efficiency

A No Frost fridge-freezer reduces ice formation in the freezer compartment and can cut down on the need for manual defrosting. However, the technology does not necessarily mean low energy consumption. For running costs, the most important factors are the energy efficiency class and annual energy consumption in kWh.

An energy-efficient fridge-freezer may prove more economical in the long term despite a higher purchase price. Compare the stated annual consumption and calculate the cost using your current electricity tariff. Actual consumption also depends on room temperature, how full the appliance is, how often the doors are opened and the temperature setting.

Technical parameters to check before buying

Dimensions and installation location

Many side-by-side appliances are around 90 to 92 cm wide and approximately 1.78 to 1.80 m high. Before ordering, measure the available space, including the area needed for the doors to open. Fridge-freezers also need clearance for ventilation and heat dissipation. The manufacturer’s exact requirements always take priority.

Also consider:

  • The width of doors, hallways and staircases
  • Depth with and without the door
  • Clearance from the wall on the hinge side
  • The load-bearing capacity of the floor
  • Access to an earthed socket

An appliance with a substantial depth can protrude a long way into a narrow kitchen. For many households, a French-door fridge-freezer may be an alternative, as the fridge section is often accessible through two narrower doors. The right design depends on your kitchen layout, storage requirements and personal habits.

Usable capacity and internal layout

For a family fridge-freezer, flexible glass shelves, spacious vegetable drawers and practical door compartments are essential. Check whether the shelves can be adjusted in height and how many drawers the freezer compartment contains.

The LG GSJC41EPPE is one example. According to the stated product data, it offers 641 litres of total capacity, including 420 litres of fridge space and 192 litres of freezer space. A 14-litre ice-making compartment is also listed. This layout is suitable for households that buy and store large quantities of food, but it should be compared with your own shopping habits.

Noise level and energy consumption

Noise levels are given in decibels. Values of around 36 to 37 dB may be particularly appealing for open-plan kitchens and living areas. Even so, the figure should always be considered alongside the airborne acoustical noise emissions class and the installation location.

For energy consumption, the annual figure in kWh is the most practical basis for comparison. The homeX CFBSN5441C-S is listed with an annual consumption of 204 kWh and energy efficiency class C. The LG GSJC41EPPE is listed with energy efficiency class E and an annual consumption of 347 kWh. These figures alone are not enough to make a purchasing decision, but they show why comparing energy labels is so important.

Our selection for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
homeX CFBSN5441C-S Side-by-Side Fridge-Freezer 544L

homeX CFBSN5441C-S Side-by-Side Fridge-Freezer 544L

Why this product suits this profile: With 544 litres of usable capacity, it offers plenty of room for a family household without having to opt for an especially large 600-litre model.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product data clearly states the usable capacity, energy consumption and noise level: 204 kWh per year and 37 dB. Total No Frost is also listed.

Key benefit & strengths

544-litre capacity, Total No Frost, Multi Airflow, Super Cool and Super Freeze modes, plus energy efficiency class C according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality standards
LG GMF960EV2E FoodCenter 645 litres

LG GMF960EV2E FoodCenter, 645 litres

Why this product suits this profile: The four-door design creates a clear internal layout and is aimed at households with high refrigeration and freezing requirements.

How this product avoids the pitfall

No Frost and automatic defrosting are listed in the specifications. The water and ice-cube dispenser is integrated into the appliance; check the required connection before buying.

Key benefit & strengths

645 litres of usable capacity, 384-litre fridge compartment, 261-litre freezer compartment, No Frost, LED lighting, plus water and ice-cube dispensers according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
LG GSJC41EPPE Side-by-Side Fridge-Freezer 641 litres

LG GSJC41EPPE Side-by-Side Fridge-Freezer, 641 litres

Why this product suits this profile: This model is designed for frequent users who regularly store drinks, fresh food and frozen products, and prefer an integrated dispenser without a mains water connection.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product data, the integrated 4-litre water tank means no mains water connection is required. The annual consumption of 347 kWh and energy efficiency class E should be factored into your cost calculations.

Key benefit & strengths

420 litres of fridge space, 192 litres of freezer space, 36 dB, Multi Air Flow, plus ice-cube and crushed-ice dispensing according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Suitable for: Users with flexible space requirements
Hisense HRCD640GB French-Door Fridge-Freezer 640 litres

Hisense HRCD640GB French-Door Fridge-Freezer, 640 litres

Why this product suits this profile: The French-door design provides a wide fridge compartment and several temperature zones for households with different storage requirements.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Alongside the capacity, the specifications list a Frost-Free system, Eco mode and a convertible zone. Check the energy label on the product data sheet before ordering.

Key benefit & strengths

640-litre total capacity, Super Cool, Super Freeze, Eco mode, door alarm, child lock and ConnectLife app according to the product description.

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.

Side-by-Side Fridge-Freezer FAQ

How much space does a side-by-side fridge-freezer require?

Do not allow for the appliance width alone. You also need sufficient clearance for ventilation, room for the doors to open and a route for transporting the appliance to its installation location. Many models are approximately 91 cm wide. The required minimum clearances are specified in the relevant installation instructions.

Does a fridge-freezer with a water dispenser always require a water connection?

No. According to the product description, appliances with an integrated water tank do not require a mains water connection. The tank must be filled manually and cleaned regularly. For a system connected directly to the mains, check the water connection, hose routing and installation requirements before buying.

How much does it cost to run a large fridge-freezer?

You can estimate the annual electricity cost as follows: annual consumption in kWh multiplied by your electricity price per kWh. An appliance with annual consumption of 204 kWh would cost approximately 71,40 Euro per year at an assumed tariff of 0,35 Euro per kWh. The actual figure may vary depending on usage and ambient temperature.