Fridge Freezers are a modern-day essential in our homes. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and offer a range of different features to help you with your weekly shop. But with so much choice available on the market, it can be hard to know which model is best for you.
At Atlantic Electrics, we are here to help you. We know how important it is to make the right choice when choosing an appliance for your home. So, we offer a wide selection of exceptional appliances that will provide you with the best performance and outstanding refrigeration.
In our handy fridge freezer guide, we will explain everything you need to know and help you step-by-step through the purchasing process to ensure you find what you are looking for.
A few things to consider
The most important features to consider when buying a fridge freezer are fit, capacity, functions and energy ratings. We will explore these features in detail in this guide to help you find the right model for your home.
Types of fridge freezers
The first question to ask is where you would like to place your fridge freezer. This will help you to decide between a freestanding or integrated model. Let’s help you choose the best type of appliance to suit your home.
Freestanding appliances are the most flexible option as they come in a variety of sizes and styles that will suit any kitchen layout. All you need is a power socket, so you can place this appliance wherever you require.
Integrated fridge freezers are neatly hidden behind a cabinet door and are ideal for space-saving options. Generally, these models are more expensive than freestanding models. An integrated appliance is a great choice if you prefer the modern, sleek look as you can use your door panel to match your kitchen design.
Choosing the right capacity and split type
Capacity-
The size of your household will determine the right litre capacity you require for your home. We have created a rough guide to help you understand how a litre capacity is measured.
· For smaller households of 1-2 people, we recommend 100-200 litres.
· For 3-4 people, we recommend 200-300 litres.
· For larger households of 5-6 people, we recommend over 300 litres.
Split type-
It is important to consider the ratio of fridge to freezer that you need to store all of your essentials. You can choose between a 50/50, 60/40 and 70/30 split type so you can find the right model that will suit your household needs. Generally, most models with a 60/40 split offer slightly more space to the refrigeration compartment than the freezer compartment. A 50/50 split type will provide you with more space for storing frozen goods, whilst a 70/30 split will provide you with a smaller freezer space. So, it is important to check the split type for your chosen model so you have all the space you need.
Key Features to consider -
As technology has developed over time, fridge freezers have benefitted from a range of additional features to improve the refrigeration performance and make life easier for you. We have created a list of key features to consider to help you make the right purchase.
Frost Free-
The convenient Frost Free technology eliminates the need to manually defrost your freezer. By consistently circulating the movement of air, Frost Free technology will prevent moisture from sticking to your food and forming ice. This ensures that you can safely store your essentials for longer without any ice build-up.
Auto Defrost-
Auto Defrost is designed for the fridge compartment of your appliance and uses similar functions as Frost Free technology. A small hole located at the bottom of the compartment will collect all condensation that forms from moisture in the air to prevent droplets of water from sitting on the refrigerator shelves and your food. This will stop ice from forming and protect your stored goods.
Salad Crisper Drawer-
Many models may offer a dedicated drawer so you can safely store your fresh fruit and vegetables. This drawer will help to maintain freshness and nutrients, as well as protect your fruit and vegetables from any odours from other items in your fridge.
Holiday Mode-
Some models feature Holiday Mode which is ideal for if you are going to be away from home for a while. All you have to do is simply clear out your stored goods, activate the setting and leave the appliance switched on. This function ensures that the temperature inside the appliance will be regulated at an energy-efficient level so you will not come home to any unpleasant odours.
Ice and water dispensers-
We offer models that are equipped with built-in ice and water dispensers so you can enjoy cool, filtered beverages at the touch of a button. When choosing an appliance with a dispenser, the most important thing to consider is if you would like a plumbed or non-plumbed model. A plumbed model will draw the water from the mains and provide you with easy access to chilled water whenever you like. A non-plumbed model tends to be the most cost-effective option as they are connected to a refill tank that you can empty yourself.
Smart technology-
Smart fridge freezers can be controlled from the manufacturer’s app on your smartphone or tablet using your Wi-Fi connection. This enables you to control your appliance with ease as well as receive alerts and personalised notifications for your fridge freezer.
Fast Freeze-
Some models feature a Fast Freeze function which enables you to rapidly freeze your food to maintain nutrients and flavours. This feature is great for when you get home from shopping and want to quickly freeze your freshly stored goods.
Choosing an eco-friendly model
Staying eco-conscious has never been easier. If choosing an eco-friendly fridge freezer is important to you, there are a number of factors to consider. You can find out how energy efficient a particular model is by checking the model’s energy rating. All labels are graded from A – G to help you understand how efficient an appliance is. Generally, appliances with an A grading are the most energy efficient as they are equipped with several intelligent, energy-saving features. Energy efficient models guarantee to provide an exceptional performance whilst taking the environment into consideration.
Measurements & Installation
Fridge Freezers come in an array of sizes so you can easily find the right appliance for your home. The key measurements to focus on are the height, width and depth of the appliance. Whether you have chosen a freestanding or integrated model, we stock a selection of models to fit every space.
Freestanding models-
Generally, the standard measurements for a freestanding fridge freezer are-
· Height- 130-200cm
· Width- 60cm
· Depth- 60-70cm.
The main measurement to vary for freestanding models is the height so it’s important to measure your space before you make your purchase to ensure you find the right model. We also advise that you leave a little room either side of the appliance so you can open the fridge freezer doors with ease. If you are limited for space, we also offer a range of slimline and under counter models which have been specially designed for smaller spaces.
Integrated models-
You must make sure you have the correct measurements of your available space before you purchase your integrated fridge freezer. Typically, the standard measurements for an integrated model are-
· Height- 178cm
· Width- 55cm
· Depth- 55cm.
We recommend that you leave a few centimetres of space at the back of the appliance for pipes or sockets that are required for connection. We also advise that if you are replacing an integrated model, your new model has the same split type so that your original cupboard doors fit seamlessly.
Door hinges-
Another key factor to consider is which way you need the appliance doors to open that is most convenient for you. It is important that you find a model that can suit your kitchen layout and allow you easy access to your stored essentials. Typically, most models offer removable hinges so you can position the doors for a left or right opening. This provides you with the freedom to place your fridge freezer wherever you need in your kitchen space.
Integrated door fixings-
For integrated models, there are two types of hinges you need to choose from. These are sliding and fixed. A fixed hinge connects the cabinet door directly to the appliance door which will fully support the weight of the appliance and cabinet. A sliding hinge is attached to the cabinet door to slide in and out as the door is opened and closed.
For replacing an old integrated appliance, we recommend that you purchase the same type of hinge used on your previous model to ensure your new integrated appliance works with ease.
Useful tips to consider
Fridge Freezer brands-
There is a wide variety of trusted brands to choose from when selecting a fridge freezer. You can pick your favourite or find the brand that offers the specific features, capacity, functionality and colour you are looking for. Take some time to research and discover the brand that is right for you.
Picking your colour-
Whether you have chosen a freestanding or integrated model, you will want to make sure your new fridge freezer suits your style. Fridge freezers come in a variety of colours and designs so you can choose the appliance that matches and completes your home.
Number of shelves-
Generally, the average number of shelves in a fridge freezer is 4. However, you can find models that offer more storage options if you are looking for more refrigerator space. Some models may offer more depending on the size of the fridge compartment, suppling flexible shelves which can be removed and rearranged to make space for larger items.
Maintenance
It is important to take care of your appliance to protect your fridge freezer’s performance. Fridge Freezers are now designed with efficiency and longevity in mind, requiring only a few simple steps to keep them in their best condition.
Defrosting your freezer-
If your fridge freezer does not offer frost free technology, you will need to manually defrost your freezer to prevent the build-up of ice. Defrosting your fridge freezer is not a difficult task and can be done in just a few quick steps. We advise that you check your manufacturer’s guide to see how often you should defrost your freezer in order to protect the appliance’s performance.
1. First, you must turn off the appliance at the wall.
2. Then, remove any food from the appliance and keep the door open. Place a towel down to prevent any spills on your kitchen floor.
3. Next, place a bowl of hot water on the bottom shelf of the freezer and leave this for a few hours.
4. Once all the ice has melted, you can simply wipe the interior of the appliance down with a sponge.
We recommend that you check your manufacturer’s guide and product details to ensure you understand what maintenance care your fridge freezer needs, and what you can do to help keep your appliance running smoothly.
FAQs
We have listed some common questions we often get asked when buying a fridge freezer below.
1. How do I know when it is time for a new fridge freezer?
Typically, if you think you may need a new fridge freezer, the key things to look for are:
· If your food begins to go bad quicker.
· If the temperature in your refrigerator isn’t very cold.
2. How do I know what size fridge and freezer compartments I need?
The size of your fridge and freezer compartments will depend on the type of food you like to buy. If you purchase more chilled goods, then a bigger fridge compartment is the right choice for you. If you stock up more on frozen goods, we recommend choosing a fridge freezer with a larger freezer compartment.
3. How much space do I need to leave around a fridge freezer?
Some manufacturers recommend that you leave approximately 2-5cm of space around your appliance to ensure you have room for any plugs and pipes, and to enable your fridge freezer to run efficiently.
4. Can I keep my fridge freezer in a garage, utility room or outbuilding?
Generally, most manufacturers don’t recommend placing a fridge freezer in one of these locations as they do not meet the right temperature for the appliance to run smoothly. However, you may be able to choose a model that offers freezer-guard technology which will keep your freezer at the right temperature required no matter what the room conditions are.
We advise that you check if your chosen model can be placed in a different room before you make that purchase.
5. Can I find a model with a freezer compartment on top of the refrigerator?
Some models offer a unique design in which the freezer compartment is located at the top of the appliance. The compartment tends to be smaller than a typical freezer compartment with a larger fridge section below. These models are great for if you do not require much freezer space.
We are happy to help you with anything you need. So, if there are any more questions, simply get in touch with our team.
The quality and reputation of the brand, place of manufacture and attractiveness of the design will all affect the price. At Atlantic Electrics, we will help you to choose a reliable model that provides you with the best results for your refrigeration needs. If you would like to take a look at some models in person, we have a vast selection on display in our showroom.
Telephone: 020 8208 6999
Email: web@atlanticelectrics.com
Our store: 970 North Circular Road London, NW2 7JR
