Which? reviews: Fridges

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Time to chill and have a look at the Which? fridge reviews. Useable space, ease of use, freezer compartments and noise are some of the factors taken into consideration in our tests. 

Fridges come in several different types and lots of different sizes to suit all needs. 

The most popular type are freestanding models, which are easy to fit to under a worktop or in a confined space. Freestanding tall fridges are becoming increasingly popular as buyers look to increase their ability to store fresh foods. 

Built-in fridges are integrated into a kitchen cabinet and are hidden behind a door. Both worktop-height and tall fridges are available built-in, and often people prefer the clean look this gives to a kitchen. 

However, there are fewer models to choose from than if you buy a freestanding appliance. In fact, you may have no choice if you're buying one as part of deal for a fitted kitchen. Also expect to pay higher prices than for an equivalent freestanding model. 

Below, we explain more about the features of fridges.

 
 
 

Capacity

Don't be fooled into thinking you can rely on manufacturers' measurements when choosing a new fridge - we've found their claimed storage capacities can be misleading.

Nor can you judge a fridge's capacity by its size - 2 fridges that appear identical may differ by up to 25 litres in their usable storage space.

Energy ratings

After central heating, refrigeration appliances are the biggest domestic users of energy, because they're on all the time. New models of fridge are now labelled A++, A+, A, B or C, based on their energy consumption. An A++ rating indicates the most efficient category.

If your last fridge was bought before September 1999, it could be anything up to a G rating, with no limit on how much energy it uses.

 
 
 

Design details

There are several design details which can make a fridge more convenient to use.

Bottle grip in door

These grips let you store taller bottles without a risk or them falling out or falling over. Some fridges have bottle shelves.

Split/ adjustable shelves

Split shelves are made up of 2 half-depth shelves. The split shelves can be used together to act as a full shelf, or you can just use one; providing 2-tier storage towards the rear of fridge with space in front for taller items.

Icebox or freezer compartment

Useful for making ice cubes or storing frozen food, but they tend to reduce your general fridge storage space. A 4-star freezer compartment can freeze fresh food and store frozen food for 3 to 12 months.

Adjustable door racks

These let you make best use of space in the door, adapting their shape to the type and size of food and drink you're storing.

 
 
 

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