Cook with limited kitchen space
This cook wants to store sealed containers of cooked lentils without choosing an appliance that’s too large. That makes the external dimensions, door clearance and usable shelf layout important.
Who is this choice relevant to?
Batch cook who freezes portions
This batch cook wants to keep portions for longer than the recommended fridge storage time, so compares the freezer space with the fridge space left over.
Buyer keeping an eye on energy use
This buyer first looks for a fridge that fits in their kitchen, then compares the annual energy consumption of suitable models. An energy label doesn’t prove that the fridge is at the right temperature.
What should you look for when choosing?
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important to? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and layout | Measure the width, height and depth, allow for the door and required clearance, and compare the shelf layout with your containers. | If I have limited kitchen space, I want to know whether the fridge will fit where I plan to put it and whether my containers will fit inside. Around 36% of consumers prioritise size and layout. |
| Temperature you can check | Once the fridge is in place, measure the temperature on the bottom shelf with a fridge thermometer; the Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises 4 °C. | When storing cooked food, I want to be able to check the temperature rather than rely on the setting alone. This is the main consideration for around 29% of consumers who prioritise temperature control. |
| Space to freeze portions | Compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately, and check whether the freezer compartment can freeze fresh food. | If I want to keep cooked lentils for longer than the recommended fridge storage time, I need freezer space that can also accommodate my portions. Around 21% of consumers make freezing their top priority. |
| Annual energy consumption | Compare the annual consumption in kWh and the compartment volumes on the EU energy label for models that fit in your kitchen. | If several models meet my space and storage needs, I want to compare their annual energy consumption. For around 14% of consumers, energy use is the deciding factor. |
Common pitfalls
-
Looking only at the total capacity of a model with a freezer compartment
According to Inventum, the Inventum KV550 has 97 litres of fridge space and 16 litres of freezer space. These compartments aren’t interchangeable: freezer capacity can’t be used for chilled containers.
Compare the fridge and freezer capacities separately, and check that the compartments suit the containers and portions you want to store.
-
Confusing the selected setting with the measured fridge temperature
The temperature setting doesn’t tell you the actual temperature inside the fridge once it’s in place. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises 4 °C.
Measure the temperature on the bottom shelf with a fridge thermometer and adjust the appliance if needed.
-
Looking only at the energy rating
An energy label helps you compare product information, but it won’t tell you whether the fridge is at the right temperature or has enough room for your containers.
First choose a suitable size, then compare the annual energy consumption of models that meet your fridge or freezer needs.
Brands compared
Inventum
The KK550 and KV550 offer two under-counter options: one without a freezer compartment and one with a built-in freezer compartment.
- Inventum lists 131 litres of fridge space for the KK550. For the KV550, the manufacturer lists 97 litres of fridge space and a 16-litre four-star freezer compartment.
- In the KV550, the freezer compartment takes up space that would otherwise be available for refrigeration. The stated capacity alone doesn’t tell you how well the fridge performs when measured.
Bosch
The KTR15NWEB is an under-counter model without a built-in freezer compartment to consider if fridge space is your priority.
- Bosch lists a fridge capacity of 134 litres and external dimensions of 850 × 560 × 580 mm.
- The dimensions help you check whether the model will fit in your chosen spot, but they don’t indicate the measured temperature performance in your kitchen.
Liebherr
The Rd 1400 Pure is an under-counter model without a freezer compartment, for anyone mainly looking for separate fridge space.
- Liebherr lists a total volume of 125 litres and external dimensions of 85 × 55 × 60,7 cm.
- In particular, check that the depth suits your kitchen space, and allow for the room needed to open the door.
ETNA
The KKV956WIT is a freestanding under-counter model without a freezer compartment to compare with other options for a small kitchen.
- ETNA lists 133 litres of fridge space, external dimensions of 84,5 × 56,0 × 57,5 cm and energy rating C.
- Compare the annual consumption in kWh and check that the layout suits your containers. Capacity and the energy label are product specifications, not independent performance test results.
Fridges at Joybuy
This selection includes compact fridges and under-counter models for anyone looking to store chilled food in a limited space, with or without a freezer compartment. Check that the usable fridge space is large enough for your containers; the smallest models have limited capacity.
No image available
YASHE MFA-6L-H mini fridge, 6 l, blue
With a capacity of 6 litres, this model is designed for a small amount of chilled food; check whether your portion containers will fit inside.
The product name states that it holds 8 cans and runs on 220–240 V AC/DC.
No image available
FOHERE 10 L mini fridge with HD mirror
With a capacity of 10 litres, this model is designed for a small amount of chilled food; compare the available space with the dimensions of your containers.
The product description lists a removable shelf, a door compartment and AC/DC power.
No image available
Bella BKK090.1BE under-counter fridge, 88 l, black
This model has no freezer compartment, so it’s an option if you want fridge space for containers but don’t need a freezer.
The product description lists an 88-litre fridge capacity, three adjustable shelves and a reversible door. The stated dimensions are 48 × 45 × 85 cm.
No image available
Bella BKV555-040CW under-counter fridge with freezer compartment, white
This model has both fridge and freezer space. Compare the separate compartments with the room you need for chilled containers and portions to freeze.
The product description lists 95 litres of fridge space and 14 litres of freezer space, two glass shelves, a salad drawer and three door compartments. The stated dimensions are 85 × 55 × 58 cm.
No image available
Exquisit KS16-4-051CW under-counter fridge with freezer compartment
An under-counter model with a freezer compartment may suit you if you need space for frozen portions as well as chilled containers. Bear in mind that the freezer compartment takes up space alongside the fridge section.
The product name lists a capacity of 107 litres and energy rating C. The product description gives dimensions of 84,50 × 54,90 × 55,70 cm and says the temperature is controlled with a dial.
Frequently asked questions
How long can you keep cooked lentils in the fridge?
The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises keeping cooked lentils without salt in the fridge for no more than two days, and says they can be kept in the freezer for three months. Cool leftovers quickly, seal them well and don’t leave them out of the fridge for more than two hours. If the food is ready-made and in sealed packaging, follow the instructions on the label.
How can you check whether a fridge is cold enough?
The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises keeping your fridge at 4 °C. Place a fridge thermometer in the middle of the bottom shelf, leave it there for half a day or overnight, and adjust the appliance if the reading is too high.
What does the energy label tell you when comparing fridges?
The EU energy label for household fridges uses a scale from A to G and includes information such as annual consumption in kWh and compartment volumes. Use these details to compare suitable models; the label doesn’t measure the temperature inside your fridge once it’s in place.
What are your rights if a fridge doesn’t work properly?
According to the Dutch government, you’re entitled to a product that works properly in the Netherlands, and you can contact the retailer to find a solution. There’s no fixed statutory guarantee period: what you can expect from a product depends, among other things, on the product and the information provided. Any manufacturer’s guarantee is in addition to this.
Does the retailer have to take your old fridge when you buy a new one?
According to the Dutch government, when you buy a new, similar appliance, the retailer must take your old one from you free of charge. This also applies to online purchases, although the practical arrangements for handing it over may vary depending on the delivery.