How to choose the perfect refrigerator for your kitchen: a complete guide

Whether you are designing your new kitchen or simply want to update your household appliances, choice of the refrigerator is a crucial decision. It is not just a question of choosing between a 60 centimetre or 75 centimetre model, as the position, installation and functions also need to be considered. We have provided this complete guide to help you to make the right choice for your needs and for your kitchen.

Refrigerator measurements: 60 or 75 centimetres?

The size of the refrigerator is one of the first aspects to consider. Standard refrigerators are 60 centimetres in width, while the larger ones can be as wide as 75 centimetres.

60 cm refrigerators: these models are ideal for smaller kitchens or for families with lower storage needs. They are easier to insert into limited spaces and offer a practical solution without sacrificing too much space.

75 cm refrigerators: if you have a spacious kitchen and need more capacity, 75 cm refrigerators are the right choice. They have more space inside and are perfect for large families or anyone who does large weekly shops.

Positioning: where should the refrigerator go?

The position of the refrigerator in your kitchen is essential to ensuring functionality and efficiency. Consider these aspects:

• Close to the preparation zone: positioning the refrigerator close to the food preparation area allows easier access to the ingredients while you are cooking.
• Away from sources of heat: avoid positioning the refrigerator near radiators, as the heat forces the refrigerator to work harder and increases energy consumption.
  
• Space for opening the doors: make sure there is enough space to open the refrigerator doors completely without any obstacles.
  

Free-standing or built-in  

You have two main installation options: free-standing refrigerators or built-in refrigerators.

Free-standing refrigerators: these models are designed to be positioned anywhere in the kitchen, without being integrated into the furniture. They allow more flexibility in positioning and are available in a broad range of designs and finishes. Measurements from around 60 to 90 cm (depending on the type of product and the brand chosen).

Built-in refrigerators: these are designed to be integrated into the furniture, to create a uniform and harmonious appearance. They are ideal for anyone seeking a kitchen with a clean and modern design, without visible appliances. Measurements of 60 and 75 cm available.

Functions to consider

In addition to the dimensions and positioning, it is important to consider the functions that a refrigerator can offer:

• Energy efficiency: choice of a refrigerator with a high energy efficiency can make a huge difference for both the environment and for your energy bills. With the new European regulations, the energy classes have been recalibrated to provide a more precise assessment of the performance of household appliances.
• No Frost: No Frost technology prevents the formation of ice, reducing the need for manual defrosting and keeping the food fresh for longer.
  
• Flexible compartments: adjustable drawers and shelves allow a more flexible organisation of the food.
  
• Storage technologies: several more advanced models offer compartments with controlled temperature and humidity for the storage of fruit, vegetables and meat in optimal conditions.
  

The new energy classes for refrigerators

In March 2021, the European Union introduced a new energy labelling for household appliances, including refrigerators. The old classes A+, A++ and A+++ were replaced with a new scale from A to G, with the intention of making the level of energy efficiency easier to understand:

• Class A: the most efficient and advanced refrigerators in terms of energy consumption. Although these models may have a higher initial cost, they guarantee the highest saving on the electricity bill over the long term.
• Classes B and C: these models are still highly efficient and offer a good compromise between cost and energy saving.
  
• Classes D and lower: indicative of less efficient refrigerators, as these models consume more energy and could have higher operating costs.
  

Example of energy saving: 

• Class A refrigerator: annual consumption of around 150 kWh.
• Class D refrigerator: annual consumption of around 300 kWh.
  

Considering an average energy cost of 0.25 €/kWh, the annual saving with a class A refrigerator compared with a class D refrigerator can be around €37.5.

In conclusion

Choice of the perfect refrigerator for your kitchen requires careful consideration of the dimensions, the positioning, installation and functions. Whether you choose a 60 or 75 centimetre model, or a free-standing or built-in one, make sure to consider your own specific needs and the space available. With the right information, you can make an informed choice and enjoy a refrigerator that is not only perfectly suited to your kitchen, but also improve your everyday cooking experience.

Do not hesitate to contact us if you need more advice or want to explore our range of refrigerators. We are here to help you find the perfect solution for your kitchen!