Fridge Freezers Buying Guide

YOUR FRIDGE/FREEZER IS A VITAL PART OF YOUR KITCHEN

Choosing one can be a tricky task. Here's a guide to make the whole process easier...

FOOD

What kinds of food do you want to store?

Fresh produce - Look for larger fridge compartments, deep salad drawers and fridges with even air circulation to keep food fresh.

Meats – A model with an Extra-fresh compartment will keep meat and fish fresher for longer.

Bottled goods – A model with full width door shelves and a bottle shelf will house all your bottles. No problem. Frozen foods – Look for low frost or frost-free freezers that you don't waste your time defrosting.

#EASYTIP: Use adjustable shelves to make the most of your space and accommodate all types of food.

SPACE

What type of fridge will suit your kitchen?

Built-in - Placed behind a cabinet to match your kitchen design – either upright or below/above your work surface. Make sure to measure up though – you'll need at least 38mm at the back for ventilation and a vent cut out in the plinth of at least 200cm2.

Freestanding – Stands in your space available. Remember to measure and check there's enough room to open doors easily.

#EASYTIP: Position your fridge out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or the oven to reduce energy consumption.

#EASYTIP: How to clean your refrigerator easily in 7 steps

SPACE

What type of fridge will suit your kitchen?

Built-in - Placed behind a cabinet to match your kitchen design – either upright or below/above your work surface. Make sure to measure up though – you'll need at least 38mm at the back for ventilation and a vent cut out in the plinth of at least 200cm2.

Freestanding – Stands in your space available. Remember to measure and check there's enough room to open doors easily.

#EASYTIP: Position your fridge out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or the oven to reduce energy consumption.

#EASYTIP: How to clean your refrigerator easily in 7 steps

CAPACITY

Fridge freezer capacity is measured in litres. That doesn't necessarily mean you should fill it with wine and beer (unless you want to).

100 - 150 litres - Should suit a household of one or two people.

150 - 250 litres – Better for medium sized families.

250+ litres – For big families or plenty of roommates. Regular outings to the supermarket should mean you require less refrigeration space. So if you shop often, consider a smaller fridge.

#EASYTIP: Don't overfill your fridge – the cool air needs some room to circulate.

ENERGY

All fridge freezers from 2014 onwards must have at least an A+ energy rating, due to increasing standards. However there are A++ rated fridge freezers available that are 21% more efficient and will save you money on your energy bill.

ENERGY

All fridge freezers from 2014 onwards must have at least an A+ energy rating, due to increasing standards. However there are A++ rated fridge freezers available that are 21% more efficient and will save you money on your energy bill.