Fridge freezers
A fridge freezer is the ideal solution if you're short of floor space, but have spare height room, and need more freezing capacity than the ice box in a standard fridge. Your fridge freezer is one of the most important appliances in your home, keeping food constantly cool and fresh. There are so many models with different features that you can be sure to find the right one to suit all your needs.
You need to decide on the size, energy efficiency, ease of use and storage capacities you need your fridge and freezer to have as there are many variables available – do bear in mind that not all will have independent controls. Those that have separate controls mean that you're not relying on the fridge thermostat to control both appliances.
Size
When choosing a fridge freezer one of the first things you should consider is the space that it will take up in your kitchen. Fridge freezers are widely available in three widths (50cm, 55cm and 60cm) and a wide variety of heights. If space is not an issue, then you could consider the large capacity American style fridge freezers which come in many styles, colours and sizes.
American style fridge freezers
Large American style fridge freezers are becoming increasingly fashionable, because of both their huge capacities and dynamic styling. They are tall and normally configured side by side with doors opening in opposite directions from the centre. They're frost free and may have several cool zones at different temperatures. The freezer section usually has ice and chilled water dispensers – remember the appliance must be plumbed-in within one metre of a water supply. Also consider that the sheer size of the evaporator in these large appliances will create a slightly higher level of background noise.
Integrated appliances
Some manufacturers also make 'integrated fridge freezers' for that completely built-in look. An integrated fridge freezer fits neatly in to your kitchen with the door covered by a panel that matches your kitchen cupboards. When closed, the fridge freezer is completely hidden and looks like just another kitchen unit. Your kitchen may need to be specially adapted to accept an integrated appliance if it already isn't.
Energy Efficiency
All fridge freezers are rated from 'A+' to 'G' for Energy Efficiency with 'A+ grade' appliances being the most efficient. You may be surprised to know that an 'A Grade' fridge freezer can reduce your electricity bills by up to £46 a year when compared to and older 'G grade' model.
Storage Capacity
Look at the split between the fridge and freezer compartments and choose the combination that best suits your needs and the type of food you eat. If you shop regularly, prefer fresh produce and only use the freezer compartment for storing things like frozen vegetables go for a larger fridge area. But if you tend to buy in bulk and prefer the convenience of frozen food you’d be better with a model with a bigger freezer.
Storage capacity is measured in cubic feet with a capacity of around 9-10 cu.ft. being adequate for most families.
Ease of use
The following are some useful features to look out for:
• Frost free – if you choose a 'frost free' fridge freezer and you will never have to defrost your freezer again
• Auto-defrost - this automatically regulates the temperature in your fridge to prevent frost build up
• Easy clean shelves - a fridge with glass shelves only requires a quick wipe over with a damp cloth to keep them clean.
Extra features
Once you have established the size and the amount of storage you need, it’s time to look at the additional features and benefits that are available to you.
Extra fridge features to look out for are:
• Anti-bacterial protection - some models have Microban built into the lining of the fridge which acts by killing bacteria, micro-organism and algae growth giving you permanent safe protection for your food and family
• Safety Glass Shelves - these have an anti-spillage rim allowing the shelf to hold up to a pint of liquid in case of accidents. They also have the added bonus of being scratch resistant and easy to clean
• Bottle racks - some models have removable bottle racks
• Separate compartments - prevents contamination by storing food separately
• Self closing doors - prevents damage to your appliance if you inadvertently leave the door open
• Deep door storage - extra storage ideal for large bottles
• Vacuum storage - small container where a vacuum is created to ensure food stays fresher for longer without compromising texture or flavour.
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