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A side-by-side fridge freezer is often the centrepiece of a modern kitchen. It offers generous storage space, practical features like ice and water dispensers, and an impressive design. However, the selection is vast, and not every manufacturer's promise holds up to scrutiny. Before you make a decision, it's crucial to understand the common pitfalls that can lead to a bad purchase.
These include three main points:
This guide will help you understand these and other aspects, so you can find a model that truly fits your needs and your home.
To make an informed decision, you should focus on objective criteria rather than being swayed by marketing buzzwords. The following three parameters are crucial for long-term satisfaction with your appliance.
Since 2021, a new EU energy label with classes from A (very efficient) to G (less efficient) has been in effect. An energy-efficient fridge not only protects the environment but also your wallet. Pay attention to the annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is indicated on the label. A Class D appliance can be cheaper to run in the long term than a seemingly budget-friendly Class F model. Especially for appliances that run 24/7, this difference becomes noticeable on your electricity bill. Modern inverter compressors also contribute to efficiency by adjusting their power according to demand.
Manually defrosting the freezer compartment is a thing of the past. No Frost technology is now standard in most side-by-side models and is an essential feature. A circulation system removes moisture from the freezer compartment, preventing the build-up of ice and frost. This has two key advantages: you save yourself the tedious task of defrosting, and the appliance operates more efficiently, as iced-up cooling fins increase energy consumption. Look for systems like "Total No Frost" or "Dual Cooling," where the fridge and freezer sections have separate cooling circuits, which also prevents odour transfer between the areas.
An American-style fridge freezer needs space. Measure not only the niche where the appliance will stand but also the entire path to it—doorways, hallways, and staircases. Standard models are often over 90 cm wide. However, for smaller kitchens, there are also slimmer French Door refrigerators with widths around 83 cm.
One of the most important practical decisions concerns the water and ice dispenser:
Instead of making a one-size-fits-all recommendation, we have identified models that are tailored to specific user profiles and their requirements.
Why it's a great fit: With 503 litres, it offers enormous storage space for a family's weekly shop. The cross-door layout, with a wide fridge section at the top and two separate freezer drawers below, ensures excellent visibility and organisation without the premium price tag.
The intelligent cross-door structure maximises the actual usable space. Unlike some side-by-side models with narrow compartments, this one can easily accommodate wide platters or pots, making full use of its high litre capacity.
Excellent value for money for an appliance with over 500 litres of volume, Total No Frost technology, and a quiet inverter compressor for stable operation.
Why it's a great fit: The modern, flat design in black, smart control via the ThinQ app, and innovative features like LG InstaView appeal to users who value aesthetics and advanced technology. A true statement piece for the kitchen.
Elegantly solves the water connection dilemma with an integrated 4-litre water tank. It offers the full convenience of an ice and water dispenser without any installation hassle, allowing for flexible placement in the kitchen.
A combination of smart functionality (InstaView, app control), hygienic water purification via UVnano technology, and a space-saving French Door design with a width of just 83.5 cm.
Why it's a great fit: With a massive 628-litre capacity and the exclusive Craft Ice Maker that produces slow-melting ice spheres, this appliance is perfect for entertaining guests. Its extremely quiet operation won't disturb the peace, even in open-plan kitchens.
At just 35 dB (Noise Emission Class B), this model is significantly quieter than many competing products. This specifically avoids the often-overlooked pitfall of a loud compressor that can spoil the atmosphere in an open-plan kitchen.
The unique Craft Ice Maker for premium drinks, combined with very quiet operation and a huge capacity. An appliance that impresses in everyday use and on special occasions.
We've compiled a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and UK safety regulations.
Sufficient clearance from the wall and surrounding furniture is crucial for the appliance's efficiency and lifespan. The heat extracted from the interior needs to be dissipated from the back and sides. As a rule of thumb, allow at least 5 cm of clearance on the sides and back, and about 10 cm at the top. However, some modern models are designed for a flush-to-wall installation ("ElegantFit"). Always check the manufacturer's specifications in the installation manual.
This depends entirely on your living situation and priorities.
The No-Frost function is a circulating air cooling system that actively removes humidity from the freezer compartment before it can freeze onto the interior walls or your food. The dry, cold air is distributed evenly, preventing the formation of ice layers. For you, this means: no more manual defrosting, consistently high cooling performance, and lower energy consumption, as the appliance doesn't have to fight against an insulating layer of ice.