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Whether it’s a freestanding or integrated model, we’ll help you find the best fit for your kitchen
The role of a fridge freezer is fairly straightforward and yet they’re actually remarkably varied, making it difficult to know which model will be best suited to your kitchen and requirements.
Our IndyBest shopping experts are here to help. Our first recommendation? Figure out whether you want a freestanding model or an integrated option that you can build into a kitchen unit. Then, decide on the ratio of fridge to freezer space you think you’re going to need.
Once this is handled, any other differences between fridge freezers on the market will become less important. Style is one aspect to consider as while some will prefer a retro finish, others will warm to a more contemporary look. And if you’re looking for particular features, say, whether there’s smartphone connectivity and frost-free tech, make sure to check for this.
As you read our reviews, you may notice the fridge freezers seem to have relatively poor energy efficiency ratings. This is due to a shake-up of the energy efficiency rating system for appliances, which took effect in March 2021. The scale no longer includes the high-end ratings of A+++, A++ or A+, and a low-end rating of G has been added. So, the new scale goes from A to G, with the most energy-efficient appliances rated A.
The new rating system imposes higher efficiency standards, meaning some appliances which once had impressive-sounding energy ratings now have a more modest grade. For instance, the Siemens fridge freezer featured in this article has been regraded from A+ to E. Do bear in mind that, as a whole, the fridge freezer market hasn’t quite caught up to the new energy-efficiency benchmarks at this point in time.
We included a wide range of fridge freezers in this round-up to suit all needs – from the simple, budget-friendly and compact to the all-bells-and-whistles, wallet-busting makes. We then evaluated their ease of use, design, size, extra features, results, noise level, energy efficiency and cost.
Pete Wise has reviewed thousands of products for titles including The Independent, Evening Standard, i, and BBC Good Food. As well as specialising in reviewing large home appliances and white goods, he also writes on a wide range of topics, from good causes and global development to food and drink.
While its not necassary to get your new fridge freezer professionally installed, it’s probably worth doing. While most models don’t require any plumbing, some may need to be connected to the water supply which is worth keeping in mind. As you might expect, many retailers will include installation, sometimes for free. If you have our best buy delivered, the centum fridge freezer from LG, from Currys, it will deliver the new model, remove your old one and install the new model for £15.
There are a variety of styles of fridge freezers that suit different types of kitchens. Different types include:
Firstly, think about the size of your kitchen, as no matter how much you’ve idolised the aesthetically pleasing American-style fridge freezer, it simply may not fit. Another important thing to consider is how much fridge versus freezer space you’ll want, as this will determine whether you want an even split of 50/50 or more fridge space, such as an 80/20 ratio.
In addition to size, think about what features you might want your fridge freezer to have. Things such as digital displays to monitor temperature and whether the door is open, for instance, are handy, as are separate controls, water dispensers and ice-cube makers.
According to kitchen connoisseurs Magnet, the life expectancy of a fridge freezer is, on average, 10 years. Some might last longer but the best way to extend the lifespan of your appliance is to keep it clean, defrost your freezer and replace any filters.
If you’re looking to deep clean your fridge freezer, the task will go beyond a simple disinfectant wipe. While removing all of the contents can seem quite tedious, we promise it’s well worth it. Shelves and salad crisper drawers can be washed with your regular washing up liquid and hot water, while anything that can’t be removed from your fridge freezer can be wiped down.
While annual sale dates such as Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday are excellent periods to try and scoop a saving, especially on kitchen appliances, some brands and retailers discount their products throughout the year – so, if you’re looking to bag yourself a bargain on your new fridge freezer, we’ve rounded up the best monthly deals for you.
We’re naming the LG centum GBB92MCBAP our best buy. This fridge freezer feels a step ahead of its competitors, with superb energy efficiency, a chic design and some useful features that will save you time and effort, such as its frost-free technology. Our only complaint would be that it’s a little pricey for a fridge freezer of its size.
For more kitchen gadgets, check out our guides to the best air fryers and blenders