What to consider when buying a fridge
Looking for a new fridge, but are uncertain where to begin? We are here to help. At Bosch, our team of home appliance experts compiled a list of 7 questions to ask yourself when buying a new fridge. Explore them below!
Top advantages of a Bosch fridge
- The right style and size for your needs.
- Well-thought-out organisation and storage.
- Cutting-edge cooling technology.
7 essential questions for fridge buyers
1. A freestanding or built-in fridge?
The first decision to make when buying a new refrigerator: do you want a freestanding fridge or a built-in fridge? Each has its advantages:
- Freestanding: The right choice for greater flexibility.
- Built-in: Ideal if you want your kitchen to have a clean, seamless look.
Whichever you choose, Bosch offers the right style of refrigerator for your needs and preferences.
2. Which size fits my kitchen?
Knowing exactly what size of fridge fits your kitchen is crucial before selecting a new appliance. Especially if you have a niche to fill or are replacing an old fridge. Planning a new kitchen? Then you likely have more freedom.
Pro tip: Here are some general guidelines on dimensions:
- A standard fridge is 60-cm wide.
- An XL version is 70 cm or wider.
- Side-by-side fridge-freezers can measure over 90-cm wide.
3. Capacity – how much food storage do I need?
While larger fridges offer more storage space, they also consume more energy. That's why it's advisable to buy a fridge with the right volume for your needs. A simple rule of thumb:
- One-person household = 100 litres
- Two-person household = 150 litres
- Three-person household = 200 litres
More mouths to feed? Simply add 50 litres for each additional person in your home.
Pro tip: Some fridge models are more suitable for certain household sizes. For instance, a small fridge with an integrated freezer compartment might meet your needs if you're single. Meanwhile, a side-by-side or French door fridge is perfect for a family with two or more children.
Also, if you already have a separate freezer, consider a fridge without one.
4. Finishes & trends – what reflects my tastes?
Not only is a fridge at the heart of your kitchen, you'll also be using it – and looking at it – for years to come. That's why it's worth selecting one that truly suits your preferences. Here is some inspiration:
Exterior finish: From sleek glass to cool stainless steel to a bold colour, choose the finish that makes the right statement in your kitchen.
A trendy side-by-side fridge-freezer: Gain food storage space without compromising on design. A double door fridge or a French door fridge is always a great choice for families.
Wine time: Your favourite bottles are best kept at the perfect temperature in a wine cooler. Ready to uncork anytime!
5. Which energy rating should you choose?
Your fridge runs around the clock, accounting for a notable share of your home's total electricity use — so choosing the right energy rating can help reduce electricity use over time. EU energy labels rate fridges from A to G, with A being the most efficient. The annual kWh figure on each product's energy label gives you a clear, reliable way to compare models and estimate your running costs before you buy.
6. Cleaning & defrosting – what counts?
With Total No Frost technology, you'll never have to defrost your freezer again. It extracts humidity and keeps the air dry, preventing frost from forming on the walls and your food. This is also true for the fridge area.
Say goodbye to water drops on the back wall, ensuring a hygienic impression and less cleaning. And because frost build‑up can increase energy use, keeping the interior ice‑free can help avoid unnecessary power consumption.
7. What foods do I refrigerate?
Think about a typical trip to the grocery store. What perishables do you usually buy? The items in your bag influence the interior layout and shelving options you'll want in a fridge.
- Fruits and vegetables: Opt for a large produce storage compartment to keep your favourites fresher for longer.
- Fresh fish and meat: A zero-degree drawer is the perfect spot for highly perishable cuts of meat and just-caught fish.
- Frozen foods: A fridge-freezer with a large freezer capacity is a must.
- Beverages: For space-saving storage of bottles, opt for a beverage rack.
