By Ruislip Appliances, independent kitchen and laundry appliance specialist in Ruislip since 1958. Updated October 2026.
A fridge freezer runs all day, every day, for many years, so size, layout and running costs all matter.
Most freestanding fridge freezers are 55–60cm wide and 170–200cm tall. As a rough guide, allow about 100–150 litres of fridge space for each adult in the house. Check the height under any wall cupboards and leave the ventilation gap the manufacturer specifies.
Frost free freezers do not build up ice, so you never need to defrost them. Most modern models are frost free; it is worth having.
Integrated fridge freezers fit inside a kitchen housing unit behind matching doors. They are a little smaller inside than freestanding models of the same height. Check the height of the housing opening and whether your kitchen doors use a sliding or door-on-door fixing, as models are made for one or the other.
Fridge freezers carry the A–G energy label, showing yearly energy use and noise. Because it runs constantly, a more efficient model can save a useful amount over its life.
If it is going in a garage or outbuilding, choose a model rated for low temperatures. Many fridge freezers are not designed to run in very cold spaces, so check the manufacturer's climate class or "garage suitable" note.
We take away and recycle your old fridge freezer. Thinking bigger? See our American-style guide.
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