BUYING GUIDE
A cheaper fridge, or a lower electricity bill?
Compare usable space, installation and annual electricity consumption before deciding whether a higher purchase price is worthwhile.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Compare fridges that meet the same storage need. Multiply the difference in annual kWh by your tariff to see how much an efficiency upgrade could save.
1. Measure more than the kitchen gap
Check height, width, depth, ventilation clearances and the route from your front door. Read the installation manual before ordering. Make sure the door opens far enough to remove drawers. For an integrated fridge, check the cabinet dimensions and door fixing system. If the appliance will stand in a garage or another unheated space, confirm the permitted ambient temperature range for that exact model.
2. Buy storage you can actually use
Think about a normal shopping week: tall bottles, wide dishes, fresh food and frozen portions. Compare fridge and freezer space separately rather than only total litres. Inspect shelf positions and drawer access. An appliance with more capacity is not automatically more useful if its layout does not fit your groceries. For an open kitchen, also compare the label’s stated noise level and consider where you sit or work.
3. Calculate the value of lower energy use
The EU label gives annual electricity consumption in kWh. Illustrative example: a 150 kWh/year fridge compared with a 210 kWh/year model saves 60 kWh under the label conditions. At an assumed €0.30/kWh that is €18 annually. A €120 purchase premium takes about 6.7 years to recover through electricity alone. This assumes a constant tariff and consumption; it excludes repairs and is not a lifespan forecast. Room temperature and use affect actual consumption.
4. Include installation and upkeep
Add delivery, installation and any charges for removing the old appliance. Check the defrosting requirements and how shelves, seals and drawers can be replaced. Keep the comparison practical: a small projected electricity saving may be outweighed by a costly installation or an unsuitable layout. Record purchase price, annual kWh and known extra costs for two suitable models, then compare current retailer offers for those exact versions.
Before you buy
Sources & further reading
This is buying guidance, not a hands-on product test. Examples are illustrative; check the exact model and current retailer information.