Joybuy Insights

Buying a Fridge-Freezer? Our Guide to Making the Right Choice

Choosing a new fridge-freezer can be a daunting task. Your old appliance might be consuming too much power, making too much noise, or has simply become too small. The market is flooded with models featuring specifications like 'No Frost', 'Low Frost', and various energy labels. It's easy to lose track.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my job is to help you. In this article, we'll provide practical guidance to find a model that suits your household, kitchen, and budget. We will highlight some popular choices and clearly explain the most important features.

What to Look for in a New Fridge-Freezer

Before you make a choice, there are a few key points to consider. These will help you filter the specifications and find a model that truly fits your needs.

1. No Frost or Low Frost: What's the Difference?

Ice build-up in the freezer is a common inconvenience. It reduces efficiency and takes up valuable storage space. Two technologies address this problem:

  • No Frost: A no frost system completely prevents ice build-up by continuously circulating and dehumidifying the air in the freezer. This means you never have to manually defrost the freezer. It ensures a stable temperature and keeps your food fresh for longer.
  • Low Frost: A low frost system significantly reduces ice formation. You only need to defrost the freezer once or twice a year, instead of every few months. Models with Low Frost are often more attractively priced.

2. The Right Size and Layout for Your Household

The capacity of a refrigerator is expressed in litres. A general guideline:

  • 1-2 people: 150-250 litres total capacity.
  • 3-4 people: 250-350 litres total capacity.
  • 5+ people: 350 litres or more.

Measure the available space in your kitchen precisely. A freestanding fridge-freezer offers you flexibility, but its dimensions must fit. Have a small kitchen? Then look specifically for a slimline fridge-freezer, which is often around 55 cm wide instead of the standard 60 cm.

3. Energy Consumption and Noise Level

A refrigerator runs 24/7, so an energy-efficient fridge-freezer can save you money in the long run. Since 2021, energy labels range from A (most efficient) to G. A model with a D rating can already be significantly more efficient than an older appliance.

The noise level, expressed in decibels (dB), is especially important in an open-plan kitchen. A quiet fridge-freezer produces less than 40 dB. Models around 37 dB are barely audible.

Popular Product Choices

Based on specifications and functionality, we have selected a few models that cater to different needs.

COMFEE' RCB169WH2(E) 174L Freestanding Fridge-Freezer

COMFEE' RCB169WH2(E) 174L Freestanding Fridge-Freezer

Why this model stands out This model from COMFEE' is a practical and compact solution. With a height of 150 cm and a total capacity of 174 litres, it's a great match for smaller spaces without compromising on key features.

Key features

  • Capacity: 115-litre fridge compartment and 59-litre freezer compartment.
  • Maintenance: Low Frost technology reduces the need for frequent defrosting.
  • Quiet: Operates at a noise level of just 39 dB.
  • Flexible: The door is reversible, allowing you to adapt it to your kitchen layout.

Who is this model for? Ideal for singles, couples, or as a secondary fridge in a utility room. It's an affordable and reliable choice for anyone looking for a compact, quiet, and low-maintenance fridge-freezer.

CHiQ 322L No-Frost Combi Fridge-Freezer

CHiQ 322L No-Frost Combi Fridge-Freezer

Why this model stands out This CHiQ fridge-freezer offers a generous capacity and modern technology. The Total No Frost feature and the Multi-Airflow system ensure maximum ease of use and even cooling. The stainless steel fridge-freezer finish provides a modern look.

Key features

  • Convenience: Total No Frost technology, so you'll never have to defrost again.
  • Very quiet: The inverter compressor produces just 37 dB.
  • Spacious: A total capacity of 322 litres (226L fridge, 96L freezer).
  • Efficient: Energy class D and a Multi-Airflow system for stable temperatures.

Who is this model for? Perfect for families or households that need plenty of storage space and appreciate the convenience of a completely frost-free freezer. Its quiet operation makes it highly suitable for open-plan kitchens.

CHiQ 227L Slimline Fridge-Freezer

CHiQ 227L Slimline Fridge-Freezer

Why this model stands out This CHiQ is specially designed for kitchens where every centimetre counts. With a width of just 54 cm, it's an excellent slimline fridge-freezer that still offers a practical capacity of 227 litres.

Key features

  • Compact design: Only 54 cm wide, ideal for niches or smaller kitchens.
  • Practical capacity: 153-litre fridge compartment and 74-litre freezer compartment.
  • Quiet and efficient: Operates at 39 dB and features Low Frost technology.
  • Flexible installation: The door is reversible and the feet are adjustable.

Who is this model for? A smart choice for those living in an apartment or with a narrow kitchen. This model proves that a compact size doesn't have to come at the expense of functionality and storage space.

Looking for Something Else?

Perhaps your current appliance can still be repaired, or maybe you're in the middle of a larger kitchen upgrade? For specific parts like door springs and other accessories to keep your kitchen appliances in top condition, you can take a look here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fridge-Freezers

How much noise does a quiet fridge-freezer make?

An appliance is considered quiet when its noise level is below 40 decibels (dB). Models that produce around 35-37 dB, like the CHiQ JR318WSD mentioned above, are exceptionally quiet and ideal for open-plan living spaces where kitchen noises can be disruptive.

What is the advantage of a freestanding fridge-freezer?

A freestanding fridge-freezer primarily offers flexibility. You can place it wherever you want, as long as there's a power socket nearby. They are also easier to move or replace than built-in models. Furthermore, the selection is larger, and they are often more attractively priced.

How important is the energy class for a fridge-freezer?

The energy class is very important. Because a refrigerator runs continuously, it is one of the largest energy consumers in the home. Choosing an energy-efficient fridge-freezer (for example, class D instead of F) can make a noticeable difference on your energy bill over the appliance's lifespan.