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Fridge Buying Guide

From tall models to compact under-counter styles, this fridge buying guide gives the lowdown on what cooling equipment to buy and why. Whether it is keeping food fresh for longer, using innovative technology to take the stress out of household chores, or saving energy 365 days a year, fridges are one of the hardest working devices in the home. This guide also covers the features and benefits of each type to help you find a product that best suits your household and lifestyle.

What are the different types?

Larder

Offering a tall, chilled section, larder devices are a sensible option for larger layouts or families that like to stock up on fresh food.

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Larder

With the entire unit dedicated to chilling groceries, larder styles offer a generous area for storing food, making them good for bigger layouts. They also suit larger households who need extra room to store fresh meals. If you require items to be frozen, you will need to invest in a separate device.

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Fridge with icebox

Featuring both a chilled and a small freezing section, icebox refrigerators are a great choice for those who want to store both fresh and frozen food.

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Fridge with icebox

As well as a large chilling section, refrigerators with ice boxes contain a compact area that can be used to freeze food. This makes them suitable for households that prefer to cook with fresh ingredients and just want to preserve a few items that are near their sell-by date. These models are often smaller than larder styles, making them a great option in layouts where space is at a premium.

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What are the different fitting types?

Freestanding

Freestanding cooling equipment can be positioned anywhere near a power supply, making them a convenient option that is easy to install.

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Freestanding

Easy to fit in any layout, freestanding models are quick to install where there is power supply. They are also simple to move around, which makes it easy to take equipment with you when relocating. This style is available in a variety of designs and colours, including on-trend black, making them good for those wanting to create an eye-catching feature.

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Integrated

Hidden behind a cupboard door, integrated cooling equipment fits seamlessly into any design for a cohesive and uniform look.

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Integrated

For trend-conscious homes or those that want an uninterrupted look in a cooking area, integrated models are the way to go. These devices are concealed behind a cupboard door, creating a consistent design that also reduces visual clutter for a more spacious feel – great for smaller rooms. This equipment needs to be vented properly, so you and your trade professional will need to carefully consider where to install it in your layout.

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What sizes are available?

Tall

With added height, tall devices offer more room for storing and organising food, making them a practical choice for larger families.

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Tall

Often fitted on the beginning or end of a cupboard run, tall models provide plenty of room for the weekly shop. Thanks to the extra height, this design suits bigger layouts and comes with lots of compartments to make everything easier to organise – great for those looking for a practical option.

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Under counter

Compact under-counter models save space while offering enough room to store essentials – great for those living solo, as a couple, or in small layouts.

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Under counter

Designed to be slotted beneath a work surface, under-counter styles are a smart solution in smaller rooms. Their compact size means they save floor space and can easily fit into other areas around the home, such as utilities and dining areas. The streamlined design also makes it suitable for couples and singles, who need less room to store food.

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Features to look out for

Salad crisper

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Salad crisper

By controlling the humidity around fruit and veg, salad drawers will help food stay fresh and nutritious for longer – great for reducing waste and grocery expenses.
Lighting

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Lighting

Interior lights placed at the back or next to shelving will banish shadows to make it easy to find what you are looking for, whether that is late-night snacks or cooking ingredients.

Bottle racks

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Bottle racks

Often positioned at the top of a unit, racks maximise space by keeping bulky bottles out of the way and ensure drinks are well supported, reducing the chance of spills and breakage.
Shelving

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Shelving

As well as keeping food organised, shelving makes it easier to stop cross-contamination for a hygienic interior. Look for adjustable options, which can accommodate larger groceries with ease.

Auto defrost

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Auto defrost

Preventing icy build-ups, an auto-defrost function means there is no need to switch off your device to let frost melt away, saving time and effort for families with busy schedules.
Holiday mode

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Auto defrost

A holiday setting reduces energy usage to keep bills low while you are away. It also helps minimises odours to keep the interior smelling fresh and clean.

Planning considerations

Capacity

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Capacity

When it comes to choosing the right capacity, there are three things to keep in mind: your household size, the space you have available, and your budget. You also need to consider your shopping habits – if you shop weekly, then you will need more room to store food. Or, if you tend to grab smaller amounts after work, a smaller option will be more suitable.
Energy efficiency

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Energy efficiency

Kept on 24/7, cooling devices have a big impact on energy usage and household bills. Choosing an energy-efficient option will keep running costs low and is kinder to the environment – great for eco-conscious households. If a new model is out of budget, then consider replacing your door seals. These can let lots of energy out if they are worn or old.

Location

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Location

The positioning of your refrigerator will have a big impact on how easy your layout is to use and how long your equipment lasts. Try to install it in a place that is accessible from both cooking and washing areas to create an ergonomic design. Remember to also keep it away from heat sources, like radiators and direct sunlight, and leave a 2.5cm gap around the device to ensure it is well ventilated.
Ventilation

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Ventilation

To prolong the life of your device, it is important to have the right ventilation as this will let hot air escape to prevent your equipment from overheating. It will also ensure it operates efficiently, which helps save on household bills. On freestanding designs, make sure the vents are clear of any obstructions. If you have an integrated model, then the back panel of the cupboard will need to be removed. You can also add plinth vents to prevent condensation and keep your unit dry.